Current forensic imaging practices in Australia and New Zealand: Results from 2020 ANZ IAFR survey

Abstract

Forensic imaging is frequently utilised to aid medico-legal investigations worldwide on both the living and the deceased, but little is published or known about current forensic imaging practices across Australia and New Zealand (ANZ). The ANZ branch of the International Association of Forensic Radiographers (IAFR) aimed to gather information on current forensic imaging practices across ANZ, focussing on examinations, training, staffing and how participants felt they could benefit from training and guidance in the future. An online survey was distributed to a range of forensic and imaging facilities in 2020. 47 participants responded who answered 34 questions. The results showed that forensic imaging involved both the living and deceased in a variety of environments. Participants felt the need for more forensic imaging training, including the most performed forensic imaging examinations. Departmental training, policies and procedures for forensic imaging and related examinations varied widely. The results indicated a lack of standardisation across imaging facilities in ANZ. The region would benefit from forensic imaging guidelines, as well as further training and resources to support practitioners performing these examinations.