Accidents and failures leave clues that appear to be clear in their meaning, but can be misleading if used without an informed investigation. A leak may be obvious, but the cause or moisture source is not. The cause could be due to a design deficiency, poor installation, materials or manufacturing defect, improper owner operation, or some combination of these. To sort this out and understand the cause with confidence, an expert requires a broad knowledge of codes and standards, design requirements, building component functions and limitations, installation methods, maintenance requirements, extensive investigation skills and experience, and project management skills.
A good investigation will systematically cut through the uncertainty of an accident or failure and bring clarity and authority. This is done by using the scientific method, which is the standard set by the Supreme Court for expert investigations. The scientific method starts with gathering information through field inspections, research on the design and installation, materials properties, maintenance requirements and repair history, and the events of the accident or failure. Specialized field/laboratory testing or modeling may be required to supplement observations. The data is then used to develop hypotheses of causation. Hypotheses are tested based on facts in evidence to establish opinions of failure and responsible parties. |