Fire and Explosion Investigation

Our investigations frequently result in the gather of evidence for further laboratory investigation. This ranges from the collection of samples of materials that may have been unusually flammable, or the collection of mechanical and electrical components whose failure might have resulted in an incendiary event. This is or particular interest where the fire has started in a piece of machinery, such as an engine room fire, or in machinery that has been cargo, such as vehicles and plant.

Our laboratories are internationally recognised and accredited facilities, where we analyse parts, unknown materials and identify accelerant residues in fire debris. With many years’ experience, we have built up a large database of information allowing us to identify unusual risks and potential causes of fire.

We routinely investigate the properties of materials to evaluate their effect in fire environments, studying their ability to spread fire and their susceptibility to self-heating and potential to spontaneous ignition. We have assisted in the research leading to the revision of the IMO Recommendations for the carriage of a number of cargoes including coal and DRI.

Where it has become necessary we have created mathematical and/or physical models, together with three-dimensional computer images of fire scenes, to test predicted ignition sources, fire growth and spread.