Fire & Explosion Investigation
Origin and cause investigations of fires and explosions are
conducted by our registered professional engineers, who are also
Certified Fire & Explosion Investigators. We have investigated
everything from small residential fires, to multi-million dollar
commercial, industrial and marine losses. Investigations are
conducted in accordance with the guidance of NFPA 921. We stand
ready to support our opinions through depositions and trial
testimony.
Appliance Evaluations
Our engineers can conduct on scene and/or laboratory examination of
electrical/mechanical appliances that are believed to be the cause
of fire losses. We can also evaluate appliances for non-fire related
failures. We maintain laboratory and evidence storage facilities. We
have access to additional expertise and facilities on an as-needed
basis.
Electrical Evaluations
Our engineers are involved in the analysis of electrical problems as
related to possible fire causes, lightning damage and
electrocutions/electric shock incidents. We can assist other fire
investigators in the analysis of a building's electrical system to
assess its potential involvement in the causation of a fire. We do
evaluations on fixed wiring systems and larger switchgear to
determine if they have been damaged as a result of a possible
lightning strike. In addition, we can investigate electrocutions and
electric shock incidents to determine the factors that led to the
accident.
Litigation Support
We can conduct case reviews, both first party and third party, to
assist in determining the strengths and weaknesses of the reports by
the experts on both sides of a case. This can assist in determining
if the case should be pursued. If the case is already in litigation,
we can assist in both educating the client as to the technical
matters involved in the case and in preparing for the examination of
opposing experts and lay witnesses.
Building/Construction Problems
Our engineers can evaluate building/construction related problems,
such as water infiltration and some types of structural collapse.
Sprinkler/Extinguishing Systems Failures
Our engineers can evaluate sprinkler and extinguishing systems to
determine failures modes, such as freezing and fracture of fittings
in dry pipe systems or failure to discharge or unintended discharge
of kitchen hood systems.
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