The test was used in forensics for many years to test for the traces of nitroglycerine. Caustic soda is used to break down sample containing nitroglycerine to produce nitrite ions. 
The test involves the taking of a sample with ether and its division into two bowls. Caustic soda is added to the first bowl followed by the Griess reagent; if the solution turns pink within ten seconds, this indicates the presence of nitrites. The test itself is positive if, after adding only Griess reagent to the second bowl, the solution there remains clear.
The convictions of Judith Ward and the Birmingham Six were assisted by Frank Skuse's flawed interpretation of Griess test results.