Arson Accelerant Guidelines
In cooperation with the Treasury Department’s Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, the National Bureau of Standards Center for Fire Research is working with an advisory panel of forensic laboratory directors to prepare guidelines for analyzing accelerants.
With accurate guidelines, NBS researchers hope to expedite arson investigations and consequently, convictions. Gasoline, kerosine and paint thinner are among the most common accelerants used by arsonists.
Adequate guidelines, once determined, will be submitted for adoption to such organizations as the National Fire Protection Association and the American Society for Testing and Materials, a process expected to take about three years.
