Chapter 1
Functions and Responsibilities of the Forensic Engineer
Publication: Guidelines for Failure Investigation
Abstract
To continue improving the built environment, engineers must learn from failures. This chapter describes forensic engineering, which involves a full spectrum of services ranging from failure investigation to participation in the legal proceedings that often follow. Five steps are common to the failure investigation process: investigation planning and coordination, data collection, development of testing protocol, data analysis and interpretation, and presentation of opinions and conclusions. Assisting in the legal process may involve determining the facts surrounding an accident, including the cause or causes of a failure, and identifying the responsible parties. A forensic investigator requires fundamental personality characteristics such as objectivity, open mindedness, respect for confidentiality, honesty, integrity, and good communication skills. The chapter also presents an overview of this book’s key concepts.
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Information & Authors
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Published In
Guidelines for Failure Investigation
Pages: 1 - 12
Copyright
© 2018 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Published online: Oct 1, 2018
ASCE Technical Topics:
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