Tour and Reception at the Santa Clara County Crime Laboratory
Wednesday, September 17
You've seen them on T.V., but have you ever wondered what it's like to work in a real crime laboratory? Attendees at the 2008 conference had the opportunity to find out as they toured the Santa Clara County Crime Laboratory, a state-of-the-art facility that handles evidence analysis for police and investigative units in Santa Clara, which opened with LEED® Gold Certification this summer.
Participants had the opportunity to explore this newly constructed facility that utilizes many sustainability and efficiency strategies promoted by the Labs21 Approach. The laboratory features some unique requirements tailored to running a crime laboratory, such as separate spaces for different types of evidence (e.g., fingerprint analysis, ballistics, DNA) and heavy security requirements such as reinforced, mesh-lined walls and a state-of-the-art electronic security system.
The tour highlighted the combination of necessary elements of a crime laboratory, like evidence storage, contamination control, ballistics testing, and lead emissions filtration, with sustainable design features that address water conservation and energy efficiency. Participants were able to view the facility in its early operational stages and examine how the sustainable measures incorporated into the building interact with the laboratory's unique functions and requirements. The Santa Clara County Crime Laboratory is located just a few short blocks from the San Jose McEnery Convention Center. A reception of hors d'oeuvres and cocktails preceded the tour.
Transportation to and from the San Jose McEnery Convention Center was provided by I2SL.
I2SL and Labs21 would like to extend a special thanks to our Platinum Sponsor for the Santa Clara County Crime Laboratory evening tour and reception!
Please note, EPA and DOE have granted conference co-sponsor, I2SL, permission to use conference-related fundraising as a means of supporting I2SL's Labs21 2008 Annual Conference activities. Learn more about I2SL's sponsorship opportunities.