Facing COVID-19: Forensic doctors of public security departments should improve infected cadaver identification and personal protection procedures

Abstract

Because of the nature of the human identification system, forensic doctors working in public security departments are responsible for cadaver examination and conducting crime scene investigations. These processes contain inherent risks, which often include various injury, poisoning hazards, and probable exposure risks with virus such as COVID-19. This paper discusses the occupational protections used for forensic doctors, such as crime scene corpse identification, autopsy building construction, risk assessment, and protective measures. Finally, we suggest the introduction of relevant rules and regulations that could guarantee the stability and safety of crime scene investigations and cadaver examinations. These measures may be helpful for forensic institutes and doctors working in public security departments.

Keywords

• cadaver identification
• coronavirus disease 2019
• forensic doctors
• personal protection