Legal Definitions - forensic engineering

Forensic engineering involves applying scientific and engineering principles to investigate failures, accidents, or other performance problems in structures, products, or systems. The primary goal is to determine the root cause of these issues, often for use in legal proceedings, such as lawsuits, where an expert engineer might provide testimony.

Here are some examples illustrating forensic engineering:

• Building Collapse Investigation: Imagine a newly constructed bridge partially collapses before it's opened to traffic. A lawsuit might arise between the construction company, the design firm, and the local government. A forensic structural engineer would be hired to meticulously examine the bridge's design plans, analyze the materials used, inspect the construction methods, and investigate any environmental factors like soil stability or weather conditions. Their expert analysis would pinpoint whether the collapse was due to a design flaw, substandard materials, or improper construction techniques, providing critical evidence for the court.

• Product Liability Case: Consider a situation where a popular brand of household appliance, like a toaster oven, starts catching fire unexpectedly in multiple homes. Consumers might file a class-action lawsuit against the manufacturer. Forensic electrical and mechanical engineers would then analyze the toaster oven's internal components, wiring, heating elements, and safety mechanisms. They would conduct tests to replicate the failure, identify any manufacturing defects, design flaws, or material weaknesses that led to the fires, and present their findings as expert witnesses in court.

• Industrial Accident Analysis: Suppose a worker is seriously injured when a piece of heavy machinery on a factory floor malfunctions. The worker might sue the machine manufacturer or their employer for negligence. A forensic mechanical or industrial engineer would investigate the machine's maintenance history, operational procedures, safety features, and design specifications. They would determine if the accident was caused by a design defect, a lack of proper maintenance, inadequate safety guards, or operator error, providing crucial insights for the legal case.