FIRE INVESTIGATION
IN BUILDINGS
Because they cause heavy material, and sometimes human, losses, fires and explosions are at the top of the list of risks for major claims. These losses, often publicized, are under the microscope and several questions must be answered in a short period of time. Is the event accidental? Is there a potential for litigation? Is the incident the result of arson or negligence? Have certain conditions increased the extent of the damage? In the face of so many challenges, the impartial opinion of an expert in forensic fire investigation is essential.
BUILDING FIRE
INVESTIGATION
Because they cause heavy material, and sometimes human, losses, fires and explosions are at the top of the list of risks for major claims. These losses, often publicized, are under the microscope and several questions must be answered in a short period of time. Is the event accidental? Is there a potential for litigation? Is the incident the result of arson or negligence? Have certain conditions increased the extent of the damage? In the face of so many challenges, the impartial opinion of an expert in forensic fire investigation is essential.
OUR FIRE INVESTIGATION EXPERTISE COVERS MANY NEEDS
- Fire alarm systems
- Explosions
- Building Fires
Looking for a fire investigator? Get the assistance you need now.
OUR FIRE INVESTIGATION EXPERTISE COVERS MANY NEEDS
- Fire alarm systems
- Explosions
- Building Fires
Looking for a fire investigator? Get the assistance you need now.
Trust CEP to clarify the situation
For over 40 years, Canadians have trusted us with their forensic engineering needs, and we continue to proudly serve them with the highest quality services.
Trust CEP to clarify the situation
For over 40 years, Canadians have trusted us with their forensic engineering needs, and we continue to proudly serve them with the highest quality services.
OUR EXPERTS SUPPORT YOU EVERY STEP OF THE WAY
The destruction of a building by fire is a loss which often has major consequences. Our investigations determine the origin, cause and circumstances of the event and specify the legitimacy of a claim and the factors that contributed to the incident. The multidisciplinary nature of our team allows us to provide you with the answers, whether it is a question of non-compliance of the building, deficient alarm systems, risk-increasing activities or human negligence.
As communication is an integral part of our approach, our transparency gives you the opportunity to follow the progress of your case at each step. As litigation is often unavoidable, the strength of our technical reports will provide you with powerful arguments and allow you to make the best decisions, no matter how complex the situation may be.
AS SMOOTHLY AND QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE
Exceeding NFPA 1033 requirements, our Certified Fire and Explosion Investigators have a wide range of knowledge in the related fields of electricity, mechanics, construction and chemistry. This varied expertise allows us to draw a clear and complete picture of the situation, regardless of its complexity and the number of parties involved.
CEP’s approach derives its effectiveness from the fact that each case is placed in the hands of the right expert. Our investigators are in the field and committed to supporting you during the investigation process. The result is a partnership based on trust and adapted to your needs.
THOUSANDS OF FIRE INVESTIGATIONS CONFIRM OUR TRUSTWORTHY METHODOLOGY
- Sampling and examination of physical evidence in state of the art laboratory facilities
- Testing to verify the performance of materials and systems
- Applicable codes and standards analysis
- Analysis of data retrieved from alarm or monitoring systems
- Modeling that virtually reproduces the factors of fire propagation
WE LISTEN TO YOU
Our experts are available, let us know your needs!
Need clarification on a vehicle claim?
Consult our vehicle fire investigation service.
THOUSANDS OF FIRE INVESTIGATIONS CONFIRM OUR TRUSTWORTHY METHODOLOGY
- Sampling and examination of physical evidence in state of the art laboratory facilities
- Testing to verify the performance of materials and systems
- Applicable codes and standards analysis
- Analysis of data retrieved from alarm or monitoring systems
- Modeling that virtually reproduces the factors of fire propagation
WE LISTEN TO YOU
Our experts are available, let us know your needs!
Need clarification on a vehicle claim?
Consult our vehicle fire investigation service.
What is a fire investigation? Check out our FAQ to find out!
Find the answers to your questions and discover the importance of fire investigations.
What is a fire investigation?
“Fire investigation” sounds like something out of CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, right? Well, it almost is! The goal is to determine the fire’s origin, cause, circumstances, contributing factors, and whether it was accidental or intentional.
Our fire investigators must identifyand analyze all available evidence: fuel type, flammable liquid residue, indications of short circuits, or equipment failure. They may also examine video footage or fire alarm logs, to name a few.
In short, fire investigators channel their inner Sherlock Holmes to produce reports that can be used for legal, insurance, or prevention purposes.
What are the key elements of a fire investigation?
Almost every aspect of a fire investigation plays a significant part in determining the event’s origin and cause. Here are some of the more important elements:
- Determination of the fire’s area of origin based on factors such as burn patterns and events as reported by eyewitnesses.
- Identify heat or energy sources with the potential to ignite fuels present in the area of origin.
- Analysis of documents such as inspection reports, burglar or fire alarm logs, and surveillance video.
- Use of the scientific method, which essentially consists of looking for evidence and then hypothesizing about the origin and cause of the fire. Guided by observed and reported facts, this process involves testing hypotheses and analyzing data before drawing conclusions.
This is essentially how our specialists conduct a fire investigation, regardless of the cause.
What is the first step in a fire investigation?
The first stage of a fire investigation must be conducted before any changes are made to the site. At this step, our investigators:
- Access potential evidence and photograph the scene
- Protect valuable evidence for the investigation
- Collect evidence and samples for laboratory analysis
How do forensic teams conduct fire investigations?
Fire investigators must understand the complex physical and chemical processes that govern flame behaviour and heat propagation. They must also be meticulous and follow a rigorous methodology. The major phases of an investigation include but aren’t limited to:
- Conducting a site investigation to gather as much information as possible on the condition of the building or vehicles, people present, weather conditions, etc.
- Examining the environment for potential residue, burn marks, traces of accelerants, timed ignition devices, etc.
- Collect evidence: Document as much as possible, including taking photos and recording data to help reconstruct the event.
- Analyze the collected evidence, reconstruct the scene, present the hypothesis(es) that may explain the probable cause of the fire, and, finally, write the investigation report.
NEED AN EXPERT FIRE INVESTIGATOR? TRUST CEP TO CLARIFY THE SITUATION.
If you are interested in fires and explosions, contact our experts or consult our articles on the subject!