What is considered a common barrier protection item in forensics?

In the field of forensics, common barrier protection items are essential for ensuring the safety and integrity of both the investigator and the evidence being gathered. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including gloves and masks, serves as a primary means of protection against potential contamination and exposure to hazardous materials. Gloves help prevent the transfer of fingerprints, skin cells, or other biological materials to evidence, thus preserving its integrity. Masks can protect the investigator from inhaling potentially harmful substances or pathogens present at a crime scene.

While protective barriers can refer to physical structures or settings that delineate a crime scene, they do not directly relate to the personal health of the forensic analyst. Documented procedures and investigation reports are important components of the forensic process but do not serve as physical barriers or protections for individuals during evidence collection or analysis. Thus, PPE stands out as the correct answer due to its role in safeguarding forensic analysts while ensuring that the integrity of evidence is maintained.