Chemical inhalation accidents can occur in industrial complexes, office
buildings, shops, storage areas, labs, or homes, potentially causing significant risks to human health and safety. Gas, chlorine, and ammonia leaks, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), solvent or acid spills are possible if care is not taken in the building or management of a structure. Carbon monoxide (CO) leaks are among the most common–and tragic–accidents.
An expert forensic engineer begins such investigations with a scene assessment. Typically, they conduct a thorough examination of the area based on the particulars of the incident to gather critical information. Let’s look at the steps that may be used:
Safety Precautions: Before entering the scene, forensic engineers think of safety first! They ensure the area is secure and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and others from potential gas leaks or structural instability. This may involve
Visual Observation: Engineers carefully observe the surroundings, both inside and outside to identify any visible signs related to the CO accident. Are there stained walls or ceilings? Soot deposits? Rusted or corroded pipes? Discolored flames on appliances or unusual odors? Such observations can provide clues about the source or extent of the CO release.
Building Systems Evaluation: Forensic engineers assess the building’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. They inspect furnaces, boilers, vents, flues, exhaust fans, and ductwork to identify potential issues that could contribute to CO buildup. They look for signs of damage, improper installations, blocked or disconnected venting, or faulty equipment.
Combustion Appliance Inspection: Engineers examine combustion appliances, including gas stoves, water heaters, fireplaces, or generators, that could be potential sources of CO emissions. They check for proper installation, maintenance, and venting of these appliances. They may also inspect fuel supply lines, tanks, or storage areas to detect leaks or hazards.
Ventilation Assessment: The ventilation system is evaluated to determine its effectiveness in removing CO from the building. Engineers inspect intake vents, exhaust vents, air ducts, and fans to ensure they are unobstructed and functioning correctly. It’s also important to assess the layout of the building, looking for areas with poor ventilation.
Occupancy Patterns and Activities: Engineers gather information about the building’s occupancy patterns and activities occurring during the incident. They consider factors such as the number of occupants, their behavior, and any activities that might have influenced the leak and its path. They build a timeline.
Monitoring and Sensor Data: If available, engineers review data from CO detectors, alarm systems, or other monitoring devices. This data provides insights into CO levels at different locations, time intervals, or trigger points. It helps in identifying areas of high concentration and understanding the progression of the incident.
Weather Conditions: What were the weather conditions at the time of the incident? Factors such as wind direction and speed, temperature inversions, or barometric pressure, can affect the movement and dispersion of CO.
Documentation and Photography: Photos, videos, and detailed notes capture the conditions, locations of relevant components, and any visible evidence related to the accident. These records serve as a reference for further analysis and reporting.
Need a forensic engineer well-versed in exposure accidents? Give Haglid Engineering a call at 201.722.1233.