UK FSR

Contamination Detection: DNA Elimination Samples FSR-GUI-0019

The Forensic Science Regulator (FSR) has published guidance FSR-GUI-0019 on providing DNA elimination samples to detect inadvertent DNA contamination by staff within the criminal justice system. The guidance applies to organisations in England and Wales whose staff process items for DNA profiling. This guidance is advisory and does not impose mandatory compliance requirements.

Autosomal DNA Relationship Testing Guidance for Practitioners (FSR-GUI-0014)

The Forensic Science Regulator (FSR) has published updated guidance FSR-GUI-0014 on autosomal DNA short tandem repeat (STR) relationship testing, replacing the earlier FSR-G-228 document. The guidance applies to practitioners providing relationship testing services and covers STR markers, with principles applicable to In/Dels and SNPs. UK forensic science practitioners and laboratories must ensure compliance with these updated standards.

Declarations of Compliance and Non-Compliance With FSR Code of Practice (FSR-GUI-0001)

The Forensic Science Regulator published Version 3 of its guidance on declaring compliance with the statutory code of practice (FSR-GUI-0001). The guidance explains how organisations declare compliance or non-compliance with the FSR code of practice. Version 3 updates earlier guidance issued in August 2024. The FSR code of practice became statutory under the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022.

FSR-GUI-0004 Guidance on Forensic Science Activities Interpretation and Communication

The Forensic Science Regulator has published updated guidance FSR-GUI-0004 on interpretation and communication of observations from forensic science activities. The March 2026 update corrects a misquotation of the expert definition in section 3.1.1. The guidance sets principles and expectations for forensic practitioners in England and Wales, drafted by a group of practitioners and academic experts convened by the Regulator.

Management of DNA Elimination Databases (FSR-GUI-0028)

The UK Forensic Science Regulator has published updated guidance (FSR-GUI-0028) on managing DNA elimination databases, replacing FSR-P-302. The guidance applies to practitioners, DNA process personnel, kit manufacturers, and database operators involved in forensic DNA analysis. The document aims to preserve the integrity of forensic DNA evidence by establishing standards for identifying and preventing contamination from individuals in the DNA process chain.