Type of Investigations

Investigations

No two incidents are ever the same. FWG Forensics recognises this and each case is investigated independently and thoroughly in order to determine what actually happened. In many instances, a combination of factors has created the environment for the “incident” to occur. Extensive background research is often required with particular emphasis on product recalls including any past issues regarding appliances, equipment or individual components.

Fraudulent and exaggerated claims: Our reports provide our clients with particular leverage and advantage when confronted with claims which may be fraudulent or exaggerated.

Early scene attendance, if required; witness accounts; securing of evidence; written and photographic recording of the scene; and other investigative techniques help us ensure we are in the optimum position to establish the cause of a particular incident. Past experience has shown that in some cases the allocation of liability needs to be apportioned among separate parties. We advise and guide our clients of the best options in this regard.

A sample of some previous incidents that we have investigated has been compiled below.

Type of investigations

Fires investigated

  • Industrial and commercial fires including electrical substations and fires associated with wind turbines
  • Stove and flue pipe fires caused by substandard installations and breaches of the building regulations
  • Welding, torch on roof felting and other types of hot work fires caused by substandard working practices
  • Dishwasher, tumble dryer and other appliance fires caused by manufacturing defects, installation error or poor maintenance regimes
  • Fires caused by substandard electrical works and breaches of the relevant standards

Explosions investigated

  • Dust explosions caused by the rapid combustion of suspended fine particles in the air
  • Escapes of LPG (liquid petroleum gas)  caused by insufficiently tightened joints and fittings
  • Escapes of natural gas caused by faulty gas ovens and other types of gas-fired appliances
  • BLEVE explosions (boiling liquid expanding vapour explosions) caused by pressure build-up as a result of poor system design, component failure or inadequate maintenance regimes

Escapes of water and oil

  • Escapes of water caused by negligent plumbing contractors failing to tighten, compress and install fittings correctly
  • Inadequately crimped pipework fittings caused by poor workmanship
  • Poorly supported pipework causing fitting failure
  • Escapes of oil caused by faulty pipework installations and substandard maintenance practices
  • Insufficient or no pipework insulation leading to fractures after periods of below freezing temperatures