Fire & Explosion
PINPOINT THE WHERE, THE WHY, AND THE HOW
- Our team of CFI/CFEI certified investigators and licensed engineers investigate fires and explosions across a broad spectrum of disciplines that include mechanical, electrical/electronics, chemical, and fire suppression and protection. We are experts in determining origin and cause for residential, commercial, industrial, motor vehicle, agricultural and incendiary fires as well as explosions. No incident is too small or too large.
- Ours is a true team approach. We utilize the specialized knowledge of our mechanical and electrical engineers to evaluate system components and help determine the exact cause of a blaze. Origin and cause investigators also work with structural and fire protection experts to provide damage assessment and evaluate factors contributing to fire spread along with structural safety and damage-related issues.
- For on-site explosion investigation, we employ state-of-the-art equipment to locate the origin and determine cause. Even in cases of widespread destruction, we can isolate the location and quantify the size of a leak. We also have the expertise to safely obtain liquid samples for odorant and chemical analysis, and the certification to legally ship them to a qualified testing facility.
- At AEI, we have one of the best laboratories in the country for analyzing evidence removed from fire scenes and determining the cause.
OUR FIRE AND EXPLOSION INVESTIGATIVE CAPABILITIES INCLUDE:
ORIGIN AND CAUSE DETERMINATION
- Arson (incendiary)
- Flammable gases and liquids
- Spontaneous combustion
- Reactive chemicals
- Dust and grain elevators
- Vehicle fires
- Lightning damage
- Electrical fires
- Oxygen enriched atmospheres
- Boilers/pressure vessels
- Process equipment
- Fireworks/pyrotechnics
- Gas system components
- Propane cylinders and gas grills
- Gas sampling
- Odorant and odorization analysis
- Codes and standards compliance
- Industry custom and practice and standard of care
Testing
- Fire and flammability testing
- Examination and testing of gas systems, components and appliances
- Examination and testing of electrical systems, components and appliances
- Fire modeling
- Evaluation and testing of fire suppression systems and components
- Building material flame-spread rating evaluation
- X-ray capabilities for non-destructive examinations of artifacts
Damage and contributing factor assessment:
- Accessibility and temporary shoring recommendations
- Scope of damage and repair recommendations
- Fire-suppression systems evaluation
- Building material flame-spread rating evaluation
- Firewall and smoke control systems evaluation