Dispute Resolution -
Forensic Engineering

We revel in the challenge that investigative work provides. In many cases it is linked to dispute resolution but can also include trouble-shooting or acting as an independent witness.

Some of the factors involved in these investigations are listed below.

Complexity

There may be many issues, different parties and a wide range of disciplines involved: mechanical, electrical, chemical, control, metallurgy, water chemistry.

Contractual matters

Reference to the conditions of contract is essential. We can bring our experience of working in practical situations to the interpretation of these. Plant performance and guarantees may be important issues.

Failure investigations

The cause may not be the obvious one. We explore all possibilities. This may include detailed calculations, review of documents and plant history together with maintenance records. The conditions during the original construction may be significant.

Pollution incidents

The complete chain of causation needs to be demonstrated. Legal and other requirements are relevant as is compliance with environmental regulations

Personal Injury

Many cases are small but some require significant investigation. Health and Safety issues usually important including safe systems of work. There may be mechanical failures where causation must be shown. Contributory negligence may be a factor. Slips, trips and falls are common.

Explosions and Fires

Causation is the key issue in most fire investigations. However, this may lead on to subjects such as design, maintenance, contributory negligence and health and safety.

Planning/Public Inquiries

In these matters we would be part of multidisciplinary team. We bring to the team an understanding of the planning process and awareness of public perception. We are able to present technical issues in layman’s terms. Technical aspects of the proposed development would be assessed in terms of demonstrable harm and potential risk.

Intellectual property

We have dealt with a variety of areas including patent and copyright infringement and know-how. Comparison of standard industry design and assessment of novel features is key.