Here is the way to have a meaningful dialog on what you perceive are the shortcomings of NFPA 921.

Put in a proposal to the NFPA, or make a public comment on a proposal.

While it is true that I was the original author of that particular paragraph, I am not the "the author of 921."

The author of 921 is first the committee, then all of those who saw fit to put in proposals and comments, then the assembled NFPA members who voted the document into existence, then the NFPA Standards Council, and finally the NFPA itself. That is how the proposed text of the document becomes the document itself.

You don’t have to convince me of anything if you wish your views to be accepted by the fire investigation profession. You need only convince people involved in the consensus standard making process. This is most effectively done by using the NFPA system. Put in some proposals, put in some public comments. Be part of the solution to the problems you are so willing to point out. Wailing on this forum does serve some purpose, but it does not and cannot directly solve your supposed complaints.

I cannot believe that such a vociferous proponent of the use of science for the betterment of my profession does not understand that.

Pat Kennedy, CFEI, CFPS, MIFireE
Fire and Explosion Analyst
Sarasota, Florida
[www.kennedy-fire.com]