As a forensic investigator, you know how important it is to understand an organization's working environment before you launch an investigation. Mr. Santini provides you with some information on the history of ZeroBit, its place in the marketplace, and its potential competitors. You learn that ZeroBit is an organization that generates intellectual property of interest to organized crime syndicates and nation states, as well as technology companies. Mr. Santini is concerned that product plans may have leaked out through unauthorized channels. When millions of dollars are at stake, people can get hurt or killed so investigators need to take steps to ensure their safety.

In this situation, there is a suspect currently employed at ZeroBit, as well as people who have recently left the company and cannot be located. You need to assess factors that will increase the difficulty of the investigation and put you, and others, at risk. Among those factors are people, property and environment, and evidence handling. Your training has taught you that the most important function of a thorough safety and investigation plan is to evaluate and secure the scene.

Mr. Santini has requested a plan that addresses each of the following components:

An initial description (in the form of a checklist) of the steps an investigator would follow to ensure safety is addressed in the investigation.

The safety of the investigator and other people involved in the investigation (e.g., there may be people who are hostile to your investigation). You also need to minimize the potential for becoming entangled in legal issues, and include third parties with an interest in the investigation.

The safety of the property and environments involved in the investigation.

Evidence-handling procedures; preserving chain of custody is critical if law enforcement becomes involved.

The plan should also include the steps you would take if a potential safety compromise occurs in any area.