Forensic Engineering

As the nation’s largest forensic engineering and fire investigation firm, we provide services across all major engineering disciplines.

Every fire or explosion is a completely unique situation with its own story, characteristics, and complexities. Putting all the facts together is like completing a jigsaw puzzle without knowing what the picture looks like. Our qualified experts in fire forensics have the vision and knowledge to put all the pieces together and come up with an accurate picture of the origin and cause of the incident.

Forensic Fire Investigation Services
All investigations are based on a systematic approach and a deep understanding of fire science. Every case involves the careful analysis and proper documentation of physical evidence from the scene, followed by thorough and timely written investigative reports.

Types of Investigations

• Residential, commercial and industrial fire and explosions
• Vehicle and heavy equipment fire and explosions:
• Private passenger vehicles, tractor-trailers, forestry equipment, commercial passenger vehicles, marine, agriculture, construction and industrial equipment
• Incident investigation and documentation
• Fire propagation analysis
• Fire investigation litigation
• Canine accelerant detection
• Natural gas, propane and methane appliance investigations
• Electrical appliance investigations

Semi Trucks and Trailers
Fires in semi trucks or highway tractors can occur in similar ways to passenger vehicles with a number of the same systems present, however these fires may also involve additional electrical equipment such as grid heaters as well as more electrical items in the cab or bunk compartment and may include an invertor and appliances that operate on 120 volt power or even diesel fired heaters which can be used to heat the bunk space. The brake system is larger and more complex than on passenger vehicles and multiple potential fire causes and reasons for fire causes are present at both the tractor and trailer wheel ends including bearing failures and brake failures which could be related to recent service work and need to be examined by a qualified investigator with knowledge on how the braking systems operate.

Passenger Vehicles
Fires in passenger vehicles can happen a number of different ways and times, both while the vehicle is being driven or parked and can occur when a vehicle is parked in a structure. Origin determination is important to identify a compartment of origin or a localized point of origin. Multiple potential vehicle causes are present throughout, including failures in primary or secondary electrical systems, hot surface ignition, causes involving the release of ignitable liquids onto an operating or hot exhaust components, releases of atomized fuel which can be ignited by exhaust or the alternator and result in an explosion. Or failures in rotating mechanical equipment leading to friction, heat, and a fire. Human related causes are also present, both in the passenger compartment consisting of careless disposal of smoker materials or an intentionally set fire which can occur in any compartment or the vehicle exterior. Given the wide range of vehicle systems and potential fire causes a specific knowledge of vehicles and vehicle systems is required to investigate fire losses in passenger vehicles to determine an origin and cause of the fire.

K9 Unit
We use trained detection dogs, each trained with specific expertise. Fifty percent of a dog’s training relies on the nature of that individual dog. Temperament, environmental focus, and high-hunt drive are tested by our K9 investigator from 10 months to a year old to determine if the dog will be successful at detection.
Accelerant detection: The number of odours the dog can indicate on can be as many as 20 different accelerants, deriving from primary odours. The dog enters into a fire scene and can detect the presence of specific ignitable liquids used. The primary odours include gasoline, diesel fuel, paint thinner, kerosene, lamp oil, lighter fluid, and varsol.
Explosives detection: Five explosive materials the dog can indicate on include TNT, PETN, RDX, chlorates, and nitrates.

The information and data gathered through a Failure Analysis investigation is used in Forensic Engineering, which applies principles of engineering and science, to provide an independent engineering opinion on the cause, or causes, of the failure of products, components, and materials. Following gathering background information and the evidence, Failure Analysis is conducted by systematically examining, testing the evidence, followed by a thorough analysis of the gathered data to provide the opinion on the specific failure.

Visual examination along with low and high magnification microscopy are the first steps employed in the process of gathering relevant data to help determine the cause, or causes, of a specific failure. We are looking for evidence of abuse, improper installation, and more important, to the appearance of the fracture surface. Although unique for each case, each fracture surface exhibits typical features that can help identify the failure mode (i.e., overload, fatigue, corrosion).

Often times there is a need to conduct further destructive examination to collect relevant samples for further examination and testing, either when the failed component is too large for the instrumentation used, or an area/section of interest of the evidence is hidden from view in the as-received condition.
In cases of metallic components failures, often times there is a need to look further inside and this is accomplished by conducting metallurgical evaluation of microstructures, mechanical testing, and chemical analysis, and compare those with the manufacturer’s specifications.
In cases of non-metallic materials (i.e., polymers) the Failure Analysis starts as well by visual and microscopic examination however, further examination would require different analytical techniques than the ones used for metallic materials to determine whether they were contaminated, oxidized, environmentally degraded, or if they failed by other mechanism.

One of the leading firms in the field of Forensic Engineering, Origin and Cause has experts that have the knowledge and a combined experience of more than 50 years in Failure Analysis to determine the root causes of various failures. Our opinions provided throughout the years to our clients helped them to make a decision on further course of action in their subrogation, litigation, and/or mediation actions.. No component is too large, or too small, for us to investigate it and to determine its failure mode and cause.

No matter how complex the investigation is, we are always ready to assist. We discuss with our clients the best and the most cost effective course of action for the investigation, we inform them throughout the course of the investigation, and we are always available to discuss our findings, answer your questions and/or their concerns.

The mechanical department at OCI Group consists of mechanical engineers and other investigators with specialized training and experience in examining losses in mechanical items and vehicles. There is broad range of items which fall under the category of mechanical losses, including smaller items, such as sump pumps or clothes dryers, going to passenger vehicles up to highway tractors and into larger equipment such as agricultural equipment, forestry equipment or construction and mining equipment. Investigating these types of losses requires knowledge in fire science and origin determination along with specialized knowledge in the different vehicles or systems that are being examined so that all potential fire causes can be identified. Our mechanical investigators will conduct preliminary examinations and also host or participate in joint examinations with involved parties such a vehicle or equipment manufacturers, service companies, installers, etc. Our group also works with Transport Canada and has been involved in identifying failures which have resulted in Transport Canada recalls.

As the spectrum of mechanical losses is so varied and wide, if you have a loss that may fall in this category, reach out to any of our mechanical experts and we will discuss ways in which we can assist.

Types of Fire Investigations and Mechanical Assessments

• Passenger vehicles including cars and trucks
• Highway tractors and trailers
• Agricultural equipment including tractors, implements, stationary equipment and combines
• Construction and mining equipment including excavators, dump trucks, and bulldozers, etc.
• Forestry equipment including feller bunchers, forwarders, etc.
• Household items such as sump pumps, clothes dryers, etc.
• Mechanical equipment as part of commercial or industrial processes.

Electrical and electronic equipment failures can cause serious damage and have major repercussions, including incidents resulting in fires, power outages, personal injury, code compliance, and equipment and control failures. Our electrical forensic engineers investigate deficiencies in the design, installation and maintenance of electrical equipment and systems, and perform forensic analysis to determine the cause of the failure.

Incidents stemming electrical equipment failures often involve large losses and frequently end up in litigation. From initial system analysis and damage assessments to providing expert written reports and witness testimony, our forensic electrical engineers can be relied upon to assist in subrogation and liability cases. Our services include investigations of electrical and electronic systems on private, commercial, industrial and agricultural properties, ships, vehicles, aircraft, equipment, power systems and transformers.

When wind, snowstorms, fires, vehicle impacts, tree falls, or other events damage structures, Origin and Cause forensic structural engineers provide clients with accurate and swift assessment to determine the extent of damage, and provide practical solutions to repair or rebuild the damaged structure. We also provide shoring design for emergency contractors to stabilize and repair unsafe structures.

The OCI experienced Structural Forensic Engineers also help the client determine the root cause of damage. Often, the apparent cause of damage is misleading. So, determining the true cause is crucial because it affects the required structural repair design and the insurance coverage. For example, a crack in the ceiling finishes after a snowstorm is often perceived to be caused by the weight or snow. However, it can be caused by pre-existing construction deficiencies, or gradual foundation settlement, or long-term deterioration of the roof structure. OCI engineers are equipped with years of experience, expertise and resources to determine the root cause of damage and provide repairs solution to correct the problem from the root.

We have completed thousands of structural forensic investigations; our experience encompasses wood, steel, concrete, masonry, and aluminum structures, both modern and old. We have experience with diverse types of structures ranging from, residential and commercial buildings to silos, barns and docks.

OCI’s combined expertise in materials and mechanical engineering provides superior product and equipment failure analysis, investigation, and support for the insurance industry. With a team of highly skilled engineers, we leverage state-of-the-art equipment, advanced testing techniques, and rigorous investigation processes to deliver comprehensive results that go beyond simple causation, presenting a full-spectrum analysis with multiple variables that empower our clients to make informed decisions. We apply principles of engineering and science to deliver independent opinions on the root causes of failures leading to insurance or industrial losses. Our systematic process involves detailed methods for examining and testing evidence, followed by thorough analysis, ensuring precise and reliable opinions for each specific case.

Visual examination along with low and high magnification microscopy are the first steps employed in the process of gathering relevant data to help determine the cause, or causes, of a specific failure. We are looking for evidence of abuse, improper installation, and more important, to the appearance of the fracture surface. Although unique for each case, each fracture surface exhibits typical features that can help identify the failure mode (i.e., overload, fatigue, corrosion). Often times there is a need to conduct further destructive examination to collect relevant samples for further examination and testing, either when the failed component is too large for the instrumentation used, or an area/section of interest of the evidence is hidden from view in the as-received condition. In cases of metallic components failures, often times there is a need to look further inside and this is accomplished by conducting metallurgical evaluation of microstructures, mechanical testing, and chemical analysis, and compare those with the manufacturer’s specifications. In cases of non-metallic materials (i.e., polymers) the failure analysis starts as well by visual and microscopic examination however, further examination would require different analytical techniques than the ones used for metallic materials to determine whether they were contaminated, oxidized, environmentally degraded, or if they failed by other mechanism.

Our extensive experience with a variety of materials, components, and mechanical challenges offers exceptional value to clients by accelerating problem-solving and providing a clear, detailed overview of each investigation. With over three decades of experience, our experts provide independent engineering opinions that assist clients in making informed decisions regarding subrogation, litigation, and mediation. We handle investigations of all sizes and complexities, ensuring thorough analysis and clear communication throughout the process. Our goal is to deliver cost-effective and comprehensive solutions, keeping clients informed and addressing their concerns every step of the way.

Personal injury refers to harm caused to an individual due to accidents, negligence, or other incidents, often resulting in physical injury or emotional distress. Our clients seek to understand what happened, how it happened, and the technical factors that contributed to the event, in order to take appropriate action if a third party is at fault.

Our experienced forensic engineers review background information and analyze physical evidence, structures, materials, and systems to determine the cause of an incident or failure. Our clients can expect our findings to be presented in clear and unbiased reports.

Using scientific methods, we assess whether the personal injury was caused by manufacturing defects, poor maintenance, human error, negligence, or installation issues. We specialize in litigation, product liability (i.e., injuries caused by defective products) and structural engineering failures (i.e., injuries caused by structural defects, poor maintenance, design flaws, or code violations).

Some of our investigations related to personal injuries to date include, but are not limited to, tools, bicycles, wheelchairs, fitness equipment, electrical equipment, and building code violations.

A forensic investigation puts a lawyer’s hand on the pulse of the case, providing a clear grasp of a case’s facts. Is it in their best interest to pursue litigation or is it time to settle the case? Sometimes the facts are not on the client’s side, no matter how much everyone wants them to be. The sooner the lawyer is aware of this, the sooner they can start advising your client of their options, and game-plan a settlement strategy.

Investigators and engineers have a wealth of experience presenting to judges, juries, arbitrators and committees. They know what verbal markers laypeople need to fully appreciate the nuances of an incident. At the same time, they can explain events and consequences to more specialized audiences.

Most importantly, they know how to maintain their credibility by delivering the facts without a hint of bias and without appearing to advocate for their clients. They are there to assist the court; and if/when there is evidence that does not assist the client’s case, they may be able to determine if this evidence is unrelated.

The proper identification of chemical compounds is crucial to proving or disproving the facts of an incident. We employ a variety of analytical methods that can reveal chemical changes that may have occurred, and help reconstruct the sequence of events.

In the event of an industrial process failure or contamination, or if personal injury results from a claim, we can assist you in identifying the cause(s) of the incident.

Types of Investigations
While we are equipped and ready to handle any chemical-related incidents, there are a number of investigations we commonly see.

• Consumer product liabilities for personal injury claims
• Industrial incidents
• Fire and explosion
• Reverse chemical analysis
• Food processing and fermentation
• Gas liquid chromatography (GCMS)
• Chemical reactions

A critical part of today’s infrastructure is incorporating fire protection systems. These systems save lives and property when they are properly designed and installed. Should these systems fail or not exist, lives and property can be lost.

You have determined the origin and cause of the loss but now wonder if the building was equipped with a properly designed system. Maybe the system(s) lacked maintenance and testing requirements. Was the building equipped with all of the fire protection systems required by relevant codes and standards? What codes and standards were relevant at the time of construction? Were there any renovations or changes that could have altered the systems? These questions along with many other others can have complex answers.

Origin and Cause Inc. has experts to conduct a thorough analysis of fire protection systems which include:

• Fire & Building Code Analysis
• Fire Alarm and Detection Systems
• Fire Sprinkler and Standpipe Systems
• Fire Pump & Water Supplies for Fire Protection
• Commercial Kitchen Exhaust and Fire Protection Systems
• Fixed Fire Protection Systems
• Aircraft Hanger Fire Protection Systems
• Smoke Management Systems
• Passive Fire Protection Including Fireproof Applications and Fire Stop Systems
• Fire Modelling

Our leading fire protection engineering experts understand these complex issues and can provide guidance, answers, and support to your team. Draw from our experience and see the difference it can make on your claim.

When losses occur, determination of the Origin and Cause is critical but so is understanding the role of the building Fire Protection Systems. Was the building equipped with all of the fire protection systems required by relevant codes and standards? Did those systems function adequately? What codes and standards were relevant? These questions often have complex answers. Our leading fire protection engineering experts understand these issues and can provide guidance, answers and support to your team. Draw from our experience and see the difference it can make on your claim.

Origin and Cause Inc. has the expertise to analyze the requirements of the applicable building codes, electrical codes, and fire codes, as well as the standards governing sprinkler systems, smoke management systems, and other fire protection systems.

Water-based fire protection systems can be found in multiple occupancies from residential homes to high-rise buildings, manufacturing facilities, retail units and many more. These systems can be very complex and are designed with the objective of saving life and property. When these systems fail, it can translate into millions of dollars in unnecessary damages and even loss of life. Our experts can assess theses systems and determine what may have contributed to the failure, whether it was a design flaw, a lack of maintenance or a deliberate act.

All water-based fire protection systems have one thing in common, they need water.

A connection to a public water supply is acceptable only if a water flow test or other approved method determines that volume exceeds peak demand. There are several other considerations that can help in the decision-making process of selecting an appropriate water supply, including: Corrosion, zebra mussels/microbiological corrosion, dirty water, pressure variances, automatic water supplies, and reliability.

A fire pump is required when the available water source does not have adequate pressure. Due to the critical importance of the fire pump, careful consideration should be employed during the selection and design process.

Failures of these systems can occur as a result of improper manufacturing, mechanical damage or human related factors such as installation or maintenance problems. Our group can assess theses systems and determine what caused the failure and assign responsibilities.

Not all hangers have fire protection systems, but for those that do, it is an integral part of maintaining the operation of the fleet and preventing fire from spreading to other areas. Fire protection systems in hangers are complex and are designed to meet the hazards that they protect. In the event of a failure, our experts can examine the design, installation and maintenance of these complex systems and determine the root cause.

Aircraft Fires
A fire in the aircraft is more likely to occur under the engine cowling when a component fails because of age, fatigue, or improper maintenance. A red-hot turbocharger or a crack in the exhaust system or a spray from an oil line will create a beginning of engine fire. The electrical system generator(s) is another prime candidate for starting fires.

Some of our most valuable data and collections are protected by fixed fire protection systems. The design, installation, and maintenance of these systems is critical for them to operate effectively and efficiently. They are the first line of defense in combating a fire before it gets out of control, allowing businesses to resume operations and providing peace of mind to those protecting valuable assets. Should a failure within the system occur, our experts conduct an analysis to determine how and why it failed, and if the systems were maintained as per the manufacturer and applicable standards.

Early fire detection is crucial and plays a very important role in protecting and saving lives and properties. Having a fire alarm system can significantly reduce damages and maximize fire control efforts. It is also one of the most fundamental steps for fire safety measures.

For a fire alarm system to be effective it must be installed and provide coverage thoughout a building. An alarm system also needs devices around the building to detect that a fire condition exists. These devices could be automatic detectors like smoke or heat detectors, automatic sprinkler heads (essentially heat detectors), or manual devices like manual pull stations. And when an alarm system detects a fire, it must produce a warning signal or message to a local fire department notifying the emergency.

Alarm and detection systems have evolved over the years and require adequate inspection and examination to be able to collect all the data for a successful investigation.

Fire Alarms are regulated in Canada through multiple codes and standards, such as The National Building Code, ULC standards and the Canadian Electrical Code. All fire alarm systems must be tested annually, and building owners are required to retain records of those inspections. These records provide important information on the system and its functionality, the maintenance, deficiencies, and if any devices failed to function. This also includes a list of each and every smoke detector and manual pull station. This can be used to fully audit the system and confirm that it complied with the requirements at the time of installation.

Fire and building code application and interpretation can be a complex endeavour. What is the building classification and occupancy? What are the required passive or active fire protection systems? What code was in place at the time of construction? Our code experts break down the barriers and provide a clear and detailed analysis of the prescriptive or objective based requirements, outlining which codes are applicable while dispelling any myths around grandfathering.