Applications - Security & Forensic Light Sources

Application Information Sheets
The information sheets below describe how forensic light sources are used in crime scene investigation. Forensic lamps help the investigator find latent fingerprints and other trace evidence such as blood, semen and sweat.

Crime - UV and blood
Crime - UV and body fluids
Crime - UV and fingerprints
Crime - UV and fire investigations
Crime - UV and invisible ink
Crime - UV and narcotics
Crime - White light and crime scene investigation

 

Forensic light - detecting traces with UV light

At a crime scene, fast and accurate detection of possible traces is of vital importance. Many biological fluids, and some narcotics, are fluorescent in nature. This means that when such traces are illuminated with sufficient light of the right wavelength, they fluoresce and therefore are detectable to the investigator. This in turn enables the investigator to take samples for testing. Investigators use an alternative light source (ALS), or so-called forensic light source to detect potenital traces.

 

Light

Light is essentially electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength that is visible to the eye. Ultraviolet (UV) light, or black light, is inspection of fabric using UV lightelectromagnetic radiation with a wavelength shorter than that of visible light, and it is invisible to the human eye. A UV lamp that emits long wave UV radiation and very little visible light.

 

Forensic lamps - ultraviolet light, coloured filters and goggles

Substances react differently when illuminated with different wavelengths or with a forensic light. UV-A, generally considered to exist between wavelengths 315-400 nanometers, is widely used in crime scene investigation. Blue light, typically 440-445 nm, is also known to create fluorescence in biological fluids. Blue light is best used in combination with yellow goggles which filter away the reflecting blue light from the surface, making the fluorescent traces more visible to the inspector. Forensic lamps often have interchangeable forensic filters, such as the Labino TrAc Finder, which gives the investigator a great deal of flexibility in his work.

 

Crime scene determines choice of filter

The degree to which various substances become visible when using different filters depends on the state of the substance (trace) and the surface on which the substance exists. Both UV and blue light can be efficient, for example, when searching for traces of semen. The conditions of the crime scene often will determine which sort of light (ie. wavelength) will be most effective. Criminal investigators therefore choose between using UV light, blue light, green light or a general crime scene filter in combination with the right goggles, depending on their needs. Forensic lamps enable the investigator to detect traces of potential evidence and to take samples for further testing.

 

Substances detected with UV light

• fingerprints • blood • semen • sweat • vaginal fluids • urine • saliva • narcotics • accelerants • invisible ink

 

White light - shoeprints, fibres, SAR, fire

Powerful intense white light enables the investigator to find evidence that otherwise might go unnoticed, such as dust impressions, shoeprints and fibres. Patterns and details can be clearly seen when using a Labino white light lamp, making it possible to take sharp clear photos. The Labino white light lamp is commonly used during search and rescue operations as well as when general lighting is needed at darkened fire scenes. Labino lamps are all IP65 certified which means they can be used in adverse weather conditions and harsh environments.

 

Forensic laboratory

Labino lamps provide intense illumination over a wide area, making them a popular choice among those working in forensic laboratories. They are lightweight, easily portable, remain cool during operation and are quiet to operate. Due to the high intensity and long lifetime of Labino bulbs, Labino lamps are a cost effective alternative to other more expensive and complicated light sources.

 

Why Labino lamps are unbeatable?

• Ultra-powerful and intense - works in daylight
• Robust, durable and sturdy
• Easy to carry, transport and operate
• Portable models - up to 2.5 hrs operating time
• Immediate start/restart - power in 5-15 seconds
• Dust tight, temporary water proof, IP65 certified
• CE-marked, ETL/cETL and SEMKO approved
• Comprehensive product range, including different mains, voltages, and portable battery operated models with a choice of handles
• Manufactured in Sweden in accordance with strict safety and quality standards
• Worldwide service centers

Please contact Labino if you have any further questions!

 

Download "Security" application information

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UV-Light Products
White Light Products