Why is it critical to use gloves when handling physical evidence?

Using gloves when handling physical evidence is essential primarily to prevent contamination and preserve the integrity of that evidence. Contamination can occur from biological materials, trace elements, or residues present on the hands of the person handling the evidence, which can alter or compromise the evidence's reliability and validity. Maintaining the integrity of evidence is crucial in criminal investigations because it ensures that the findings are accurate and can be used effectively in legal proceedings. Preserving this evidence without contamination is fundamental to ensuring justice is served and maintaining the chain of custody.

While looking professional, avoiding fingerprints, and ensuring comfort might be considerations in a broader context, they do not address the primary purpose of using gloves in forensic practices, which is to protect the evidence itself. The focus must always be on maintaining the purity of the evidence collected, thereby safeguarding the investigation's outcomes.