Fire/Arson Investigations : Fire/Arson Investigations
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Re: Fire investigation for forensic engineers, Jan 14 in Phoenix
Posted by: J L Mazerat (IP Logged)
Date: November 06, 2017 10:56AM
I agree with you, depending on the task, 921 may not have the electrical information needed to comply with the task. What is being missed is the methodology mentioned in 921. This methodology does not just relate to fire investigations. The courts have picked up on this and are using it in the method used to reach a conclusion by the engineers.
In many cases, where the engineer’s opinions are being challenged is not on the engineer’s knowledge of the subject being evaluated. It is the method being used to reach that conclusion. Be it right or wrong, if this evaluation has anything to do with a fire, the courts turn to 921’s methodology section as to the proper method to be used by the engineer.
I do not care if it is an engineering investigation or a fire origin and cause investigation, all professions are being examined. Any expert needs to be prepared to address not only the findings, but the methodology used to reach those findings. I am not saying the methodology has to be something directly out of 921, but it better be something that has been recognized by that profession.
Jim Mazerat
Forensic Investigations Group
In many cases, where the engineer’s opinions are being challenged is not on the engineer’s knowledge of the subject being evaluated. It is the method being used to reach that conclusion. Be it right or wrong, if this evaluation has anything to do with a fire, the courts turn to 921’s methodology section as to the proper method to be used by the engineer.
I do not care if it is an engineering investigation or a fire origin and cause investigation, all professions are being examined. Any expert needs to be prepared to address not only the findings, but the methodology used to reach those findings. I am not saying the methodology has to be something directly out of 921, but it better be something that has been recognized by that profession.
Jim Mazerat
Forensic Investigations Group
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