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Visual examination is an important feature and first step in any forensic study. This would normally encompass close visual inspection and may use inspection aids including magnifying glasses, appropriate illumination and simple tools such as scrapers. It is now routine practice to record the results of the inspection by digital photographs. For forensic analysis of adhesively bonded components surface condition and features are important.
To initially identify features by simple visual inspection which may be pertinent to the cause and location of failure.
Initial examination would be undertaken without any aids under normal illumination. Care should be taken not to touch or damage the surface. Inspection aids such as magnifying glasses or optical microscopes may be used to focus in on particular details, together with improved illumination.
Ideally a digital photographic record should be kept of the inspection. All parts should be quarantined. Great care should be taken to preserve and protect the specimen and all surfaces intact as they were immediately following failure. No chemical treatment or solvents should be used in case this affects the results of any subsequent chemical analysis.