Editing Forensic palynology (section)

=== Sample collection ===
Because pollen can be easily picked up by anyone, it is important that pollen samples are collected as soon as possible to prevent contamination from outside sources.<ref name=":2">{{Citation |last1=Bock |first1=Jane H. |title=Chapter 10 – Additional Approaches in Forensic Plant Science |date=2016-01-01 |url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780128014752000105 |work=Forensic Plant Science |pages=129–147 |editor-last=Bock |editor-first=Jane H. |place=San Diego |publisher=Academic Press |language=en |isbn=978-0-12-801475-2 |access-date=2022-03-02 |last2=Norris |first2=David O. |editor2-last=Norris |editor2-first=David O.}}</ref> Samples then need to be prepared and placed on slides in order to fully be safe from contamination.<ref name=":2" /> The process of preparing the samples and identifying them is time-consuming. When collecting a sample, it should be paired with site surveys and photos of the scene to provide context for later uses.<ref name=":3">{{Cite journal |last1=Mildenhall |first1=D. C. |last2=Wiltshire |first2=P. E. J. |last3=Bryant |first3=V. M. |date=2006-11-22 |title=Forensic palynology: Why do it and how it works |url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0379073806005007 |journal=Forensic Science International |language=en |volume=163 |issue=3 |pages=163–172 |doi=10.1016/j.forsciint.2006.07.012 |pmid=16920303 |issn=0379-0738}}</ref> For example, if the pollen evidence is used in court, then the additional context would be useful.

Sample collection methods will vary depending on the case investigation and on the collector.<ref name=":3" /> Due to the lack of palynologists in the forensic field, other forensic scientists that are present may have to collect the samples.<ref name=":3" /> This raises issues in terms of the quality of the sample, since collection sites for the sample should be determined depending on the case.<ref name=":3" /> Discussion with the investigation team is necessary in order to establish the best sampling method.<ref name=":3" />

When collection sites have been determined, samples can be retrieved with clean instruments and placed into tightly sealed, sterile containers.<ref name=":3" /> Examples are "sterile zip-lock plastic bags, or screw-top plastic (in preference to glass) containers."<ref name=":3" /> After each sample, instruments should be thoroughly cleaned or replaced to prevent contamination.<ref name=":3" /> In cases, where collection is by hand, gloves should be used and replaced after each sample.<ref name=":3" /> Samples should be labeled and sample history documentation should be maintained to keep track of the people who have had access to the sample.<ref name=":3" />