ARC MAPPING Things to Consider
|
|
- Annabel Holmes
- 6 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 ARC MAPPING By David M. Wheeler, IAAI-CFI, CFEI, CFII Featured in Fire & Arson Investigator, July 2015 Volume 1, Issue 1 Submit your assignment: Call: (800) services@nefco.net Online:
2 David M. Wheeler, IAAI-CFI, CFEI, CFII NEFCO Fire Investigations, Inc. Arc Mapping INTRODUCTION A great deal has been written about Arc-Mapping and its effectiveness in identifying the origin of a fire, dating back to the early 1970 s. [1] The concept is based on the premise that fire attacks the insulation on the electrical conductors in close proximity to where the fire originates, causing abnormal electrical activity such as an arc fault between the electrical conductors, which, in turn, trips the overcurrent protection and produces characteristic damage that may be recognized after a fire. Once the overcurrent protection operates, the circuit being examined is no longer energized, and no further arcing will occur on that circuit. In theory, evidence of this [abnormal] electrical activity may be useful in locating the area of origin. [2] There are many factors that influence the reliability of Arc-Mapping, however, and very little has been published that specifically addresses such factors (or concerns). Consideration must be given to such things as fire loads, level(s) of protective coverings over the wiring, and ventilation effects, to name a few, which can adversely affect the reliability of Arc-Mapping. To that end, a series of full-scale compartment fires were conducted in which energized electrical conductors were exposed to fire conditions. After the fires were extinguished, electrical activity on the conductors was identified and mapped to determine its relationship to the origin of the fires. In an effort to produce differing fire growth scenarios, a variety of solid fuel arrangements were positioned throughout three burn cells, and differing levels of protective covering was applied over the electrical wiring. Some were covered with gypsum wallboard, while others had -inch wood paneling, and others had no protection whatsoever covering the wiring. The burn times were determined by the activation of the overcurrent protection at the electrical distribution panel, at which point the fires were extinguished. As a result, the level of fire growth varied in each of the experiments. EXPERIMENTS Photo 1 Three substantially identical compartments with offset doorways were constructed and furnished. Each of the compartments measured approximately 16 ft. long, 12 ft. wide, and 8 ft. high. The offset door was placed in the A-Side wall, as can be seen in Photograph 1. Walls and ceilings were lined with unfinished standard sheets of ½-inch gypsum wallboard to protect the wood framing of the burn cell. The floor consisted of unfinished oriented strand board (OSB). Each compartment was then wired with 14 AWG, non-metallic cable, which was connected to a100-ampere electrical distribution panel on the exterior of the compartment with eight individual branch circuits. Each branch circuit, which was protected by a 15-ampere circuit breaker was energized during the experiments. The wiring ran up the interior rear walls, across the ceilings, and down the front walls where they were connected to a variety of electrical loads on the exterior of the cell. (See photographs 2, 3 and Figure 1, 2 & 3) Each of the three burn cells was arranged differently with household furniture to represent various living spaces. A fire was set in each of the cells and allowed to persist until the over-current protection for the circuits tripped. The fires were extinguished via one ceiling mounted sprinkler head to minimize damage to the compartment. For documentation purposes, each of the burn cells were divided into four quadrants, beginning of the left-front corner, which was designated as quadrant #1, and proceeding in a clockwise fashion. Still photography, video and thermal imagery was used to document the experiment Fire&Arson Investigator July2015
3 EXPERIMENT #1 Ceiling coverings and exposed electrical wiring. Photo 2 - View of Left side, Cell 1 Photo 3 - View of Rear Side, Cell 1 During this experiment, the non-metallic cables were affixed to the gypsum wallboard and exposed to the heat from the fire without any protective covering over them. This scenario was designed to simulate an unfinished area, such as a basement or a portion of a dwelling at various stages of construction. (See photographs 2 through 4) In this experiment, Quadrants 1 & 2 had equal fire loads, consisting of a full-sized mattress in each, and solid wood furniture in the remaining two quadrants. (See photograph 4 and Fig. 1) Fire Load Arrangement Cell 1 Photo 4 - Quadrants 1 & 2 The fire was set by applying an open flame to the side of a mattress at the extreme left-rear corner in Quadrant #2 and allowed to burn for a period of 4 minutes, 34 seconds until the over-current protection tripped at the panel. The compartment reached a temperature of 442 C (829 F) and was extinguished before reaching flashover. (See photographs 6 through 8) Fire Growth Burn Cell #1 Photo 5 - Quadrants 3 & 4 Photo 6 - Fire started at B-C corner Photo 7 Photo 8 Electrical arcing between the hot and neutral conductors was located on each of the energized circuits, and their locations were documented with orange marking tape. The evidence of arcing was found along the ceiling at the rear portion within Quadrants 2 & 3, extending across the entire length of the ceiling with arcing located immediately over where the fire originated, as well as at the right-rear corner opposite the doorway opening. (See photographs 9, 10, and Fig. 1)...continued on page 20 Fire&Arson Investigator July
4 Arc Mapping Arc Mapping of Burn Cell #1 EXPERIMENT #1 continued Figure 1 Diagram - Cell 1 Photo 9 - Quadrant #2 (Facing B/C Corner) Photo 10 - Quadrants 2 & 3 (Facing Side C, opposite doorway) EXPERIMENT #2 Ceiling coverings Burn Cell #1 Photo 11 - Quadrants 3 & 4 (Facing Side D) Photo 12 - Quadrants 1 & 2 (Facing Side B) During this experiment, non-metallic cables were affixed to the gypsum wallboard with all electrical wiring on the walls then covered over with ½-inch gypsum wallboard to shield them from the heat. The wiring across the ceiling in Quadrants 1 & 2 was also covered with ½-inch gypsum wallboard. The wiring in Quadrants 3 & 4 was covered over with -inch wood paneling to provide for differing levels of protective covering over the electrical wiring than those in Quadrants 1 & 2. The scenario was designed to simulate a dwelling where various construction materials are used. (See photograph 11). The fire load consisted of an overstuffed sectional sofa and a wood desk in Quadrants 1 & 2, and a solid wood dresser in Quadrants 3 & 4. (See photographs 13 & 14 on page 21) 20 Fire&Arson Investigator July2015
5 EXPERIMENT #2 continued Photo 13 - Cell 2, Facing Side B Fire Load Arrangement Photo 14 - Cell 2, Facing Side C The fire was set in Quadrant 1 by applying an open flame to crumpled newspaper that was positioned adjacent to the sectional sofa and immediately beneath cotton draping attached to the B-side wall. The fire was allowed to burn for a period of 5 minutes, 1 second until the over-current protection tripped at the panel. The compartment reached temperatures of 454 C (850 F) and was extinguished before reaching flashover. (See photograph 15 through 19) Fire Growth Burn Cell #2 Photo 15 Photo 16 Electrical arcing was identified on the energized circuits, and their locations were documented with orange marking tape. Evidence of arcing was found at ceiling level within Quadrant 3, immediately opposite the doorway opening with no arcing located near where the fire was started. (See photographs 20 & 21, and Fig. 2 on page 22) Photo 17 Photo 18 Photo 19...continued on page 22 Fire&Arson Investigator July
6 Arc Mapping EXPERIMENT #2 continued EXPERIMENT #3 Ceiling coverings Burn Cell #1 Arc Mapping Burn Cell #2 Photo 22 Photo 20 - A view facing Side B Photo 23 Photo 21 - D (opposite doorway) Figure 2 Diagram - Cell 2 During this experiment, non-metallic cables were affixed to the underside of the gypsum wallboard, and all electrical wiring was then covered with ½-inch gypsum wallboard to shield them from the heat, which provided equal protection over all energized circuits. This scenario was designed to simulate a room of standard construction. Fire loads in Quadrant 1 consisted of a combination of a solid wood desk, chairs and fabric-covered furniture. Crumpled newspaper was arranged along the floor in Quadrant 2 against the side of a wood bookshelf, which was positioned immediately adjacent to an overstuffed chair. The fire load in Quadrants 2 & 3 consisted of an overstuffed chair and pullout sofa bed with an assortment of bedding material. The fire load in Quadrant 4 consisted of a wood roomdivider and a solid wood bookshelf. The fire was set in Quadrant 2 by applying an open flame to the sheets of crumbled newspaper. (See photographs 24 through 32 and Fig. 3) 22 Fire&Arson Investigator July2015
7 Fire Load Arrangement Burn Cell #3 The fire was allowed to burn for a period of 11 minutes, 1 second at which time the overcurrent protection tripped at the panel. During this experiment, the compartment reached post- flashover conditions with temperatures exceeding 648 C (1,198 F) before being extinguished. Photo 24 - Quadrants 2 & 3 Photo 25 - Quadrants 3 & 4 Fire Growth Burn Cell #3 Electrical arcing was identified on the energized circuits and their locations were documented with orange marking tape. Evidence of arcing was found at ceiling level along the rear wall within Quadrant 2 immediately over the overstuffed chair, a short distance from where the fire started. Photo 26 Photo 27 Photo 28 Photo 29 Photo 30 Arc Mapping Burn Cell #3 Photo 31 Facing Side - B Photo 32 Facing B/C Corner...continued on page 24 Fire&Arson Investigator July
8 Arc Mapping EXPERIMENT #3 continued Figure 3 Diagram - Cell 3 In experiment #1, where all electrical wiring was unprotected and equally exposed to the heat, Arc-Mapping proved to be useful in identifying the fire s origin, which was easily verified by visible fire damage patterns. However, it is worth noting that electrical activity (arcing) was also present in the area immediately opposite the ventilation opening, (At the C D corner), which was a distance away from where the fire started. In experiment #2, where the electrical wiring had a greater degree of protective covering (Gypsum) in Quadrants 1 and 2, and a lesser degree of protection over the wiring in Quadrants 3 & 4 (1/8-inch wood paneling), Arc-Mapping proved completely ineffective in identifying the origin. High velocity flows and turbulence from the ventilation opening intensified the fire in this location, which attacked the insulation on the electrical conductors early in the progression of the fire. This resulted in tripping of the overcurrent protection. Although Arc-Mapping was ineffective in identifying where the fire started, visible fire patterns clearly identified the origin. In experiment #3, the fire burned in a localized area for a substantial duration where the fire started before fuel gases filling the compartment became Conclusions involved. Arc-Mapping was useful in this experiment. However, the electrical activity was not found immediately over the fire s origin, but rather in the general proximity. Electrical activity was also found opposite the ventilation opening, away from where the fire started. Once again, visible fire damage patterns clearly identified the origin. Several important concepts were derived from the experiment with regard to the effectiveness of Arc-Mapping. Although proven to be an useful tool in the identification of an area of origin, a credible origin analysis hinges upon consideration of many factors, including the location(s) and configuration of fire load, the recognition and understanding of the influences of high velocity flows and turbulence from the ventilation openings, differing levels of protective coating over electrical wiring, as well as stages of fire growth attained. As with any origin determination, investigators must be able to identify and then segregate fire scene damage that may potentially be attributed to pre and post-flashover fire conditions. In preflashover conditions, fire pattern analysis most often defines the origin, and Arc- Mapping is used as a tool to confirm what the patterns reflect. However, fire loads that influence heat release rates and burn damage within a specific localized area may produce evidence of arcing that is not associated with the fire s origin. Most notable in this experiment was the evidence of arcing found in areas opposite the ventilation openings where the fire did not originate. High velocity, turbulent flows opposite and around ventilation openings produce a concentration of high temperatures, which can impact electrical conductors if present in that area, thus produce arcing that, if misunderstood, could lead to an inaccurate origin being identified. Therefore, for Arc-Mapping to be useful in identifying the origin of a fire, it is essential that investigators distinguish between the damage created by ventilation effects versus the damage created purely by fire attack around the location(s) where the fire started. Careful steps must be taken to ascertain the exact physical makeup of the compartment in terms of wall, floor and ceiling coverings, fuel packages and arrangements, window treatments, the conditions of ventilation openings and at which stage in the fires progression they were opened or failed. The failure to thoroughly investigate and consider these factors may lead to an erroneous origin. 1 Svare, R. Arc Mapping Brunel University, Uxbridge, London. 2 NFPA 921, Sec , Guide for Fire & Explosion Investigations, 2014 Ed. ACKNOWLEDMENTS The author wishes to thank the Concord, NH Fire Department and its members for their invaluable support, and the New Hampshire Fire Academy for the use of their facility. David M. Wheeler, IAAI-CFI, C.F.E.I., C.F.I.I. (NAFI) David is a full-time fire investigator with NEFCO Fire Investigations, Inc. He served 30 years in New Hampshire Law Enforcement, and has more than 20 years of experience as a volunteer firefighter. He holds degrees in Fire Science and Criminal Justice and serves as an Adjunct Instructor in the Fire Science program at Lakes Region Community College in Laconia, NH Fire&Arson Investigator July2015
Ventilation Effects on Fire Patterns during Post Flashover Burning
Ventilation Effects on Fire Patterns during Post Flashover Burning By Matthew Obach, M.A.Sc., EIT, CFEI In order to determine the origin of a fire, fire investigators analyze fire patterns that remain
More informationFIRE PATTERN PERSISTENCE AND PREDICTABILITY DURING FULL SCALE COMPARTMENT FIRE TESTS AND THE USE FOR COMPARISON OF POST FIRE ANALYSIS
FIRE PATTERN PERSISTENCE AND PREDICTABILITY DURING FULL SCALE COMPARTMENT FIRE TESTS AND THE USE FOR COMPARISON OF POST FIRE ANALYSIS Ronald L. Hopkins, MS, CFEI, CFPS TRACE Fire Protection and Safety,
More informationFORCON INTERNATIONAL
TROY R. HATT, CFEI, CVFI - Fire Investigator SUMMARY Provides Fire Origin & Cause Investigation services based on more than twenty one years volunteer and professional firefighting and fire investigation
More informationFULL-SCALE ROOM BURN PATTERNS STUDY
FULL-SCALE ROOM BURN PATTERNS STUDY Gregory E. Gorbett, IAAI-CFI, CFEI, CFPS, MIFireE John A. Kennedy & Associates (USA) and William Hicks, IAAI-CFI, CFEI, CFPS, Eastern Kentucky University (USA) Patrick
More informationNorthwest District. Mark A. Crowley, IAAI-CFI. Everett, Washington
Northwest District Mark A. Crowley, IAAI-CFI Senior Fire Investigator Everett, Washington 425-315-5889 mcrowley@uis-usa.com EDUCATION: EMPLOYMENT: Eastern Kentucky University Richmond, Kentucky Major in
More informationDarren Winchester P. O. Box 2868 East Peoria, IL 61611
Darren Winchester P. O. Box 2868 East Peoria, IL 61611 EDUCATION 2005 Bachelor of Science, Fire and Safety Engineering Technology, Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond, KY 2002 Associate of Applied Science,
More informationJack Hooker, Certified Fire Investigator
State-Wide Consulting & Investigating, LLC P.O Box 348 Mason, MI 48854 Phone: 1-855-852-FIRE (3473) ext. 12 Fax: 1-888-845-4860 E-mail: jack@statewideci.com Positions Held Co-Founding Member/Fire & Explosion
More informationNick Steker Senior Fire Investigator, IAAI CFI, IAAI CI, NAFI CFEI 1433 W. Jeffrey Drive, Addison, Il
Nick Steker Senior Fire Investigator, IAAI CFI, IAAI CI, NAFI CFEI 1433 W. Jeffrey Drive, Addison, Il 60131 630-376-1164 nick.steker@efiglobal.com Professional Summary: Mr. Steker has over 20 years experience
More informationAtlantic Coast Service Center
Atlantic Coast Service Center Casey R. Silvers, IAAI-CFI, IAAI-ECT IAAI-FIT Fire Investigator Asheville, North Carolina 828-551-2896 csilvers@uis-usa.com EDUCATION: North Buncombe High School Weaverville,
More informationCURRICULUM VITAE PATRICK BUCKLEY
AREA OF SPECIALIZATION CURRICULUM VITAE PATRICK BUCKLEY IAAI Certified Fire Investigator with Motor Vehicle Fire Credential Endorsement CCAI Certified Fire Investigator NAFI Certified Fire & Explosion
More informationFire Investigation Origin Determination Survey Reference Material
Fire Investigation Origin Determination Survey Reference Material Study Performed by: Andrew Tinsley Greg Gorbett Department of Fire and Safety Engineering Technology Eastern Kentucky University Purpose:
More informationIncident Summary (Reference # )
Incident Summary (Reference #5605195) Incident Date September 13, 2016 Location White Rock Regulated industry sector Natural gas system and low voltage electrical system (30V to 750V) SUPPORTING INFORMATION
More informationCURRICULUM VITAE STEVEN J. MOORE, CFI
CURRICULUM VITAE STEVEN J. MOORE, CFI Steve started his career with a municipal fire department located in the Bay Area of California in 1984. As he worked his way up in the ranks to Captain he also became
More informationNorthwest Service Center
Northwest Service Center Ed Iskra, IAAI-CFI, CVFI Senior Fire Investigator Seattle, Washington 360-536-2898 eiskra@uis-usa.com EDUCATION: West Valley Jr. College Saratoga, California AS Degree in Parks
More informationEastern Midwest Service Center
Eastern Midwest Service Center Jonathan J. Jorgensen, IAAI-CFI(V), CVFI Senior Fire Investigator Charleston, WV 304-308-5674 jjorgensen@uis-usa.com EDUCATION: EMPLOYMENT: Columbia Southern University Orange
More informationModeling a real backdraft incident fire
Advanced Computational Methods in Heat Transfer IX 279 Modeling a real backdraft incident fire A. Tinaburri 1 & M. Mazzaro 2 1 Central Direction for Prevention and Technical Safety, Firefighters, Public
More informationEdwin Shaver, III, IAAI CFI Fire Investigator 3101 Yorkmont Road, Charlotte, NC
Edwin Shaver, III, IAAI CFI Fire Investigator 3101 Yorkmont Road, Charlotte, NC 28208 704-246-2420 edwin.shaver@efiglobal.com Professional Summary: Mr. Shaver has over 20 years of fire service experience,
More informationIndicators of Trouble. by John J. Lentini, CFI, F-ABC
Indicators of Trouble by John J. Lentini, CFI, F-ABC A recent unsigned article in the National Fire & Arson Report (Fall, 1998) entitled Identifying Evidence of Ignitable Liquids, listed ten alleged indicators
More informationNorthwest Service Center
Northwest Service Center Norman E. Loftin, IAAI-CFI Senior Fire Investigator 208-819-6441 nloftin@uis-usa.com EDUCATION: North Idaho College Coeur d Alene, Idaho Spokane Community College Eastern Washington
More informationARC MAPPING IN THE ADVENT OF AFCI, GFCI, AND GFEP CIRCUIT PROTECTION DEVICES
ARC MAPPING IN THE ADVENT OF AFCI, GFCI, AND GFEP CIRCUIT PROTECTION DEVICES Kevin R. Davis, PE, CFEI, CVFI And Mark Goodson, PE Goodson Engineering, Denton, TX ABSTRACT Arc mapping is a tool that can
More information( )
Course Title: Fire Dynamics (3087) Course Number: FST - 3087 Course Credit Hours: (3) Three Semester Hours Instructor Information: Bernard W. Becker, III, MS (937-751-7371) ccfdchiefbecker@yahoo.com Textbook:
More informationCurriculum Vitae. Lee K. McCarthy, P.E., IAAI-CFI, CFEI, CVFI Fire Protection Engineer
Curriculum Vitae Lee K. McCarthy, P.E., IAAI-CFI, CFEI, CVFI Fire Protection Engineer Professional Practice Lee McCarthy is a licensed professional engineer with more than 10 years of experience in the
More informationPROFESSIONAL PROFILE. EDUCATION 2002 Americus University Associate of Arts & Sciences EXPERIENCE
201505 PROFESSIONAL PROFILE EDUCATION 2002 Americus University Associate of Arts & Sciences EXPERIENCE 2012-Present DONAN Austin, Texas Senior Fire Investigator 2009-2010 NEFCO Fire Investigations Philadelphia,
More informationFire Department Arson Unit. Investigation Report
Fire Department Arson Unit Investigation Report RE: Structure Fire, 1234 Example Street 8/1/2004 0314 Hrs August 1, 2004 Summary This fire was investigated by the Fire Department Arson Unit. Investigator
More informationScot W. Hays, CFEI, CVFI, CFII, FIT
Scot W. Hays, CFEI, CVFI, CFII, FIT Envista Forensics 5565 Glenridge Connector Suite 900 Atlanta, Georgia 30342 Domicile: Dallas, Texas Office: 888.782.3473 Fax: 866.914.7561 Cell: 469.709.2442 E-Mail:
More informationMid Atlantic Service Center
Mid Atlantic Service Center Michael R. Rugh, IAAI-CFI Fire Investigator Harrisburg, PA 224-575-2107 mrugh@uis-usa.com EDUCATION: Pennsylvania State Police Academy, Hershey, Pennsylvania March 1993 through
More informationIntertek. REPORT NUMBER: SAT-005 ORIGINAL ISSUE DATE: October 29,2008 REVISED DATE: November 19, 2008
Intertek I 0:: o D.. W 0:: I en w I REPORT NUMBER: 3161466SAT-005 ORIGINAL ISSUE DATE: October 29,2008 REVISED DATE: EVALUATION CENTER Intertek Testing Services NA Inc. 16015 Shady Falls Rd. Elmendorf,
More informationMichael L. Davis, IAAI-CFI, CVFI Fire Investigator
Michael L. Davis, IAAI-CFI, CVFI Fire Investigator 9316 Lakeview Avenue, Building 21-C, PO Box 98887, Lakewood, WA 98496 253.588.2730 mike.davis@efiglobal.com Professional Summary: Mr. Davis experience
More informationCIRRICULUM VITAE MICHAEL A. GINN
CIRRICULUM VITAE MICHAEL A. GINN EMPLOYMENT EXPERIENCE: Fire Investigator Fire Cause Analysis 2009 to Present Fire Marshal Petaluma Fire Department, 1994 to 2008 (Retired) Fire Captain Santa Rosa Fire
More informationSiegfried Klein, IAAI-CFI, CI, NAFI-CFEI
Envista Forensics 5565 Glenridge Connector Suite 900 Atlanta, Georgia 30342 Domicile: Denver, Colorado Office: 888.782.3473 Fax: 866.914.7561 Cell: 720.202.2543 E-Mail: Siegfried.Klein@envistaforensics.com
More informationNorthwest Service Center
Northwest Service Center Dennis Zigrang, IAAI-CFI Fire Investigator Boise, Idaho 208-401-4374 dzigrang@uis-usa.com EDUCATION: EMPLOYMENT: Orange County Sheriff Coroner Office Academy, California P.O.S.T.
More informationNorthwest Service Center
Northwest Service Center Mike L. Davis, IAAI-CFI Fire Investigator Belgrade, Montana 307-622-2989 mdavis@uis-usa.com EDUCATION: Aims Community College Greeley, Colorado AAS Degree in Fire Science Technology
More informationChristopher J. Handshy, IAAI-CFI
CURRICULUM VITAE Christopher J. Handshy, IAAI-CFI January 2010 Pyr-Tech, Inc. Litchfield, Illinois 62056 Telephone (217) 851-1940 CORPORATE OFFICE Pyr-Tech, Incorporated 843 St. Louis Road Collinsville,
More informationJoseph C. Geitgey, CFI, CFEI, CFVI
Joseph C. Geitgey Envista Forensics 5565 Glenridge Connector Suite 900 Atlanta, Georgia 30342 Domicile: Atlanta, Georgia Office: 888.782.3473 Fax: 866.914.7561 Cell: 470.426.8176 E-Mail: Joseph.Geitgey@envistaforensics.com
More informationLUCAS R. CHOUDEK Electrical Engineer
LUCAS R. CHOUDEK Electrical Engineer Education: BS in Electrical Engineering 2013 Computer Science - Minor Energy Engineering - Minor Applied Mathematics - Minor University of Minnesota, Duluth, MN Continuing
More informationD. Curt Alvis, IAAI-CFI, NAFI-CFEI, NAFI-CVFI Senior Fire Investigator
D. Curt Alvis, IAAI-CFI, NAFI-CFEI, NAFI-CVFI Senior Fire Investigator 4515 Daly Drive, Chantilly, Virginia 20151 703-802-9771 curt_alvis@efiglobal.com Years Experience: 24 Professional Summary: Mr. Alvis
More informationIFE Level 3 Diploma in Fire Science and Fire Safety
IFE Level 3 Diploma in Fire Science and Fire Safety Unit 7: Fire Investigation Unit Reference Number: D/507/7414 Introduction This unit focuses on the understanding and technical knowledge required by
More informationFire Patterns. Introduction. Skills Objectives. Fire Effects and Fire Patterns (2 of 2) 12/20/ Knowledge Objectives
Knowledge Objectives Fire Patterns Identify fire effects and understand their causes. Recognize fire patterns. Identify the cause of fire patterns. Analyze fire patterns to produce a hypothesis. Skills
More informationThis article was originally published in Encyclopedia of Forensic Sciences, Second Edition published by Elsevier, and the attached copy is provided by Elsevier for the author's benefit and for the benefit
More informationDiscussion. January 6, Ms. Pamela Hall Pacific Specialty Insurance Company 2995 Prospect Park Drive, Suite 150 Rancho Cordova, California 95670
Rimkus Consulting Group, Inc. 3620 Horizon Drive, Suite 200 King of Prussia, PA 19406 (888) 623-1460 Telephone (610) 941-1288 Facsimile January 6, 2017 Ms. Pamela Hall Pacific Specialty Insurance Company
More informationARC MAPPING: NEW SCIENCE, OR NEW MYTH?
ARC MAPPING: NEW SCIENCE, OR NEW MYTH? Vytenis Babrauskas Fire Science and Technology Inc., San Diego, CA Dept. of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
More informationTitle: BFST1505 Syllabus
DEPARTMENT OF FINANCIAL SERVICES Division of State Fire Marshal Bureau of Fire Standards and Training Title: BFST1505 Syllabus Revision: April 5, 2018 Section I - Course Information Course Title: Fire
More informationSouth Texas/Louisiana Service Center
South Texas/Louisiana Service Center Michael P. Neujahr, IAAI-CFI Special Investigator 210-637-7500 mneujahr@uis-usa.com EDUCATION: Central Texas College, Associate of Applied Science, Public Administration
More informationTable of Contents. Preface... xiv Introduction... 1 Purpose and Scope... 2 Key Information... 2
Table of Contents Preface... xiv Introduction... 1 Purpose and Scope... 2 Key Information... 2 1 Organization, Responsibilities, and Authority...4 Case History...7 Investigator as Liaison...8 Public Agencies...8
More informationUPHOLSTERED FURNITURE AND MATTRESSES IN NEW AND EXISTING BUILDINGS
Page 20 ABOUT CODE CORNER CCFS would like to remind you to check with your local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for questions and opinions concerning your local Fire and Building Codes. The information
More informationAPPLICABILITY AND LIMITATIONS OF ARC MAPPING IN VEHICLE AND EQUIPMENT FIRE INVESTIGATION
APPLICABILITY AND LIMITATIONS OF ARC MAPPING IN VEHICLE AND EQUIPMENT FIRE INVESTIGATION Douglas R. Stahl, PE, CFEI/CVFI Stahl Engineering & Failure Analysis, LLC - USA and Kerry D. Parrott, BSME, CFEI/CVFI,
More informationORDINANCE NO
ORDINANCE NO. 2017-08-031 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LANCASTER, TEXAS, REPEALING THE NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE 2014 EDITION IN ITS ENTIRETY AND REPLACING IT WITH THE ADOPTION OF THE NATIONAL ELECTRICAL
More information1893 Chicago World s Fair
FIRE INVESTIGATION & FORENSICS UL and the UL logo are trademarks of UL LLC 2015 2 1893 Chicago World s Fair The Chemistry of Fire The FIRE TRIANGLE represents the three elements needed for fire to occur:
More informationINSTRUCTORS MANUAL SAMPLE ONLY
FIRE SCENE EVIDENCE PRESERVATION INSTRUCTORS MANUAL SAMPLE ONLY REFERENCE MATERIAL Kirks Fire Investigation Sixth Edition (ISBN 0-13-171922-X) U.S. Department of Justice, NIJ Research Report, Fire and
More informationInformational Bulletin on Mobile office Units Prepared by Mark Hilbert May 17, 2017
Informational Bulletin on Mobile office Units Prepared by Mark Hilbert May 17, 2017 It has come to the attention of the electrical authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) at the DOE sites there is inconsistency
More informationProfessional Summary: Licenses and Certifications:
Kevin Pezzano Senior Fire Investigator, IAAI CFI, IAAI ECT, CFEI, CVFI, ICC CFM 129 McCarrell Lane, Suite 207 Zelienople, PA 16063 215-817-3586 Kevin.Pezzano@efiglobal.com Professional Summary: Mr. Pezzano
More informationFigure 1. Structure Used For the Simulations.
OVERVIEW: Vent, Enter, Search (VES) is one of the most talked about tactics in the fire service today. When used correctly, its positive impact can be measured by the lives it saves. The VES method is
More informationFire Investigation
Western Technical College 10503157 Fire Investigation Course Outcome Summary Course Information Description Career Cluster Instructional Level Total Credits 3.00 Total Hours 54.00 Provides learners with
More informationNew insights into ventilation
New insights into ventilation The International Fire Instructors Workshop (IFIW) gathered in March 2011 in Indianapolis. Numerous firefighters and scientists were there to give lectures. Several of these
More informationFIRE PATTERNS ANALYSIS WITH LOW HEAT RELEASE RATE INITIAL FUELS
FIRE PATTERNS ANALYSIS WITH LOW HEAT RELEASE RATE INITIAL FUELS Gregory E. Gorbett, MScFPE, MSc, CFEI, CFPS, IAAI-CFI, MIFireE Assistant Professor William Hicks, MSc, CFEI, CFPS, IAAI-CFI, EFO, CFO, MIFireE
More information1.0 INTRODUCTION. Shaw Industries Group 2 SwRI Project No c
1.0 INTRODUCTION This report presents the results of a fire performance evaluation in accordance with the 2011 Edition of National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standard 265, Standard Methods of Fire
More informationTampa, FL Fire Cause Classification Task Group Tue, 14 April 2011
Fire Cause Classification Tampa, FL Tue, 12 April 2011 Proposals: CP2 - Chapter 19 (New 19 is a portion of old 19) CP3 - Chapter 20 (New 20 is the remainder of old 19) CP4-2 definitions in Chapter 3, as
More informationNorthwest Service Center
Northwest Service Center Lloyd L. Dykes, IAAI-CFI District Manager Seattle, Washington 253-548-6955 ldykes@uis-usa.com EDUCATION: North American School of Conservation Newport Beach, California Major in
More informationU.S. Firefighter Disorientation Study Prepared by William R. Mora, Captain San Antonio Fire Department San Antonio, Texas.
U.S. Firefighter Disorientation Study 1979-2001 Prepared by William R. Mora, Captain San Antonio Fire Department San Antonio, Texas July 2003 Firefighter Disorientation, which is loss of direction due
More informationYunyong P. Utiskul, Ph.D., P.E., CFEI
Yunyong P. Utiskul, Ph.D., P.E., CFEI Managing Engineer Thermal Sciences 17000 Science Drive, Suite 200 Bowie, MD 20715 (301) 291-2544 tel yutiskul@exponent.com Professional Profile Dr. Utiskul applies
More informationCITY OF GREATER SUDBURY (CGS) ARENA EVENTS FIRE REGULATIONS
CITY OF GREATER SUDBURY (CGS) ARENA EVENTS FIRE REGULATIONS Last Updated: April 28, 2008 FIRE REGULATIONS The purpose of fire regulations is to maintain an acceptable level of fire safety within CGS facilities.
More informationMaterials Testing by Gregory Havel
Materials Testing by Gregory Havel July 24, 2017 One of the most common tests cited in the technical bulletins on building materials is ASTM E84 Standard Method of Test of Surface Burning Characteristics
More informationSECTION ISOLATED POWER SYSTEMS
PART 1 - GENERAL 1.1 DESCRIPTION SECTION 26 20 11 ISOLATED POWER SYSTEMS SPEC WRITER NOTE: Delete between //---// if not applicable to project. Also, delete any other item or paragraph not applicable to
More informationFire Cause Determination
Fire Cause Determination Objectives (1 of 3) Describe the role and relationship of the fire fighter to criminal investigators and insurance investigators. Differentiate accidental fires from incendiary
More informationRobert J. Trenkle, IAAI CFI, CFEI, Fire Investigator 1950 Sequoia Trail, Owosso MI
Robert J. Trenkle, IAAI CFI, CFEI, Fire Investigator 1950 Sequoia Trail, Owosso MI 48867 800-326-5980 robert.trenkle@efiglobal.com Professional Summary: Mr. Trenkle has more than 46 years of experience
More informationFire Dynamics Research Applied to. Fire Investigation. Overview
2017 NFPA Conference & Expo Fire Dynamics Research Applied to Fire Investigations Presented by: Daniel Madrzykowski Research Engineer UL Firefighter Safety Research Institute Fire Investigation What is
More informationD. Curt Alvis Senior Fire Investigator, IAAI CFI, CFEI, CVFI
D. Curt Alvis Senior Fire Investigator, IAAI CFI, CFEI, CVFI 4515 Daly Dr. Suite M, Chantilly, Virginia 20151 703 802 9771 curt.alvis@efiglobal.com Professional Summary: Mr. Alvis has 37 years of experience
More informationNorthwest Service Center
Northwest Service Center Lloyd L. Dykes, IAAI-CFI District Manager Seattle, Washington 253-548-6955 ldykes@uis-usa.com EDUCATION: North American School of Conservation Newport Beach, California Major in
More informationJOHN TINGHITELLA, C.F.I., CFEI Fire Investigator
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE 2005 to Robson Forensic, Inc. present Associate Conduct on-scene fire investigations to locate origin and make initial determination of cause. Conduct burn investigations and fire/police
More informationAtlantic Coast Service Center
Atlantic Coast Service Center Harold W. DeLancey, NCIAAI-CFI Fire Investigator Greensboro, North Carolina 704-426-6130 hdelancey@uis-usa.com EDUCATION: Winston Salem Bible College Winston Salem, North
More informationRocky Mountain Service Center
Rocky Mountain Service Center Gary S. Hodson, IAAI-CFI Senior Fire Investigator Sandy, Utah 801-631-6079 ghodson@uis-usa.com EDUCATION: EMPLOYMENT: Bachelor of Science Weber State University Major: Criminal
More informationEast Area. Timothy R. Jonas, IAAI-CFI Regional Vice President East Area. Charlotte, North Carolina
East Area Timothy R. Jonas, IAAI-CFI Regional Vice President East Area 704-609-2598 tjonas@uis-usa.com EDUCATION: Gaston College Dallas, North Carolina Associate Degree - Fire Protection Technology EMPLOYMENT:
More informationElement C3.5 Means of Escape
.5 Means of Escape RRFSO Article 14 Legal Factors Responsible person must ensure routes to emergency exits and exits themselves are kept clear at all times Exits must directly lead to place of safety Safe
More informationTom Hoppe MSC, MB, CD, MA, CFEI
Tom Hoppe MSC, MB, CD, MA, CFEI TECHNICAL AFFILIATIONS Canadian Associations of Fire Investigators International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI) CERTIFICATION National Fire Protection Association
More informationRequired Materials For complete material(s) information, refer to
Butler Community College Health, Education, and Public Safety Division Troy R. Jellison Revised Fall 2018 Implemented Spring 2019 COURSE OUTLINE Firefighter 1 Course Description FS 100. Firefighter 1.
More informationATTIC FIRES. Part 3 HEAVY SMOKE SHOWING
ATTIC FIRES Part 3 HEAVY SMOKE SHOWING ATTIC FIRE TACTICS HEAVY SMOKE SHOWING Size-Up Investigation Life Priority Follow-Up Changing Tactics Assign Resources Locate The Fire Salvage Fire Attack Overhaul
More informationRequirements for Electrical Installations
BRITISH STANDARD BS 7671:2018 Corrigendum (December 2018) Requirements for Electrical Installations IET Wiring Regulations Eighteenth Edition The Institution of Engineering and Technology and BSI NO COPYING
More informationFRS 201. Firefighters Advanced Skills I. 45 clock hours 3 credit bouts
FRS 201 Firefighters Advanced Skills I 45 clock hours 3 credit bouts Course Title Lecture/Skill Total Fractional FRS 2011 Firefighter Safety II 4 0 4 0.3 FRS 2012 Ladders II 10 1 11 0.7 FRS 2013 Rescue
More information1. January 2012 Present: Technical Fire Analysis, LLC (Owner/Fire Investigator)
265 Shepard Pl Lehighton, PA 18235 Office: (610) 379-4445 Email: david@technicalfireanalysis.com Web: www.technicalfireanalysis.com Education University of Maryland, University College Online Fire Science
More informationCalifornia Service Center
California Service Center Nina Scotti, CFEI, CFII Special Investigator Canyon Lake, California (888) 563-0240 EDUCATION: Mt San Antonio College Crafton Hills College Santa Rosa College Rio Hondo College
More informationSECTION AUTOMATIC TRANSFER SWITCHES
SECTION 26 36 23 AUTOMATIC TRANSFER SWITCHES PART 1 - GENERAL 1.1 RELATED DOCUMENTS A. General provisions of the Contract, including General and Supplementary Conditions and Division 01 Specification Sections,
More informationMichael J. Ling Fire Investigator Team Lead, IAAI-CFI (V), NAFI-CFEI Field Office: Ames, Iowa Cell:
Michael J. Ling Fire Investigator Team Lead, IAAI-CFI (V), NAFI-CFEI Field Office: Ames, Iowa Cell: 515-450-2342 mike.ling@efiglobal.com Central Service Center Phone: 630-5292097 2055 W. Army Trail Road
More information1303 Trans Canada Way SE Medicine Hat, AB T1B 3Z9 Phone
Medicine Hat Fire Service Construction Site Fire Safety Plan ABC Part 9 Buildings 1303 Trans Canada Way SE Medicine Hat, AB T1B 3Z9 Phone 403-529-8282 Email fireprevention@medicinehat.ca Small Buildings
More informationSmoldering Propagation Characteristics of Flexible Polyurethane Foam under Different Air Flow Rates
Smoldering Propagation Characteristics of Flexible Polyurethane Foam under Different Air Flow Rates Zhou Y., Fei Y.*, Hu S. Q. Nanjing Tech University, College of Fire Safety Science and Engineering &
More informationLESSON ONE FIREFIGHTER I Fire Behavior
LESSON ONE FIREFIGHTER I Fire Behavior OBJECTIVE PAGE DOMAIN: COGNITIVE LEVEL OF LEARNING: KNOWLEDGE MATERIALS IFSTA Essentials 4th edition; overhead projector or laptop computer and multi media projector;
More informationFirst Revision No. 6-NFPA [ Section No. 2.2 ]
Page 1 of 18 First Revision No. 6-NFPA 555-2014 [ Section No. 2.2 ] 2.2 NFPA Publications. National Fire Protection Association, 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471. NFPA 12, Standard on Carbon
More informationMidwest Service Center
Midwest Service Center Ronald A. Langstaff, P.E. Forensic Fire Protection / Mechanical Engineer Chicago, IL 224-316-0841 rlangstaff@uis-usa.com EDUCATION: Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) Worcester,
More informationAnalysis of Two Typical Barriers to Fire Spread. Assignment #1. Prepared by STUDENT NAME. For Professor XXXXXXXXXXX
Analysis of Two Typical Barriers to Fire Spread Assignment #1 Prepared by STUDENT NAME For Professor XXXXXXXXXXX FPE 570 Building Firesafety 1 Worcester Polytechnic Institute DATE Barriers 1 Contents STRUCTURE....2
More informationElectrical Safety Requirements
Electrical Safety Requirements Purpose This document defines the minimum required control measures to reduce the risk of injury or illness related to electricity. Scope Applicable to all Coca-Cola system
More informationMidsouth Service Center
Midsouth Service Center John Jenkins, IAAI-CFI Senior Fire Investigator Fayetteville, AR 901-375-4062 jjenkins@uis-usa.com EDUCATION: Fayetteville High School Agriculture Garland County Community College
More informationCompatibility between Smoke Alarms and Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters
Page 2 A NEMA Low Voltage Distribution Equipment Section Document ABP 11-2016 Compatibility between Smoke Alarms and Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters Published by National Electrical Manufacturers Association
More informationMid-Atlantic Service Center
Mid-Atlantic Service Center Kevin Reilly, IAAI-CFI, CFVI Senior Investigator Front Royal, Virginia 970-631-4525 kreilly@uis-usa.com EDUCATION: EMPLOYMENT: NH Vocational College Laconia, NH Associates Degree
More informationM E M O R A N D U M. Diane Matthews, Administrator, Technical Projects. NFPA 101 First Draft Letter Ballot (A2014)
National Fire Protection Association 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02169 7471 Phone: 617 770 3000 Fax: 617 770 0700 www.nfpa.org M E M O R A N D U M TO: FROM: NFPA Technical Committee on Furnishings
More informationNATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE (NEC) & NFPA 70E ARC FLASH ELECTRICAL SAFETY
A new twist on the National Electrical Code - a practical application workshop. If you sign up in this class, prepare to work! Day 1: Fundamentals of OSHA requirements for performing electrical work -
More informationNUMERICAL STUDIES ON BARE CABIN FIRES WITH OPERATION OF SMOKE EXTRACTION SYSTEM
, Volume 11, Number 2, p.43-48, 2012 NUMERICAL STUDIES ON BARE CABIN FIRES WITH OPERATION OF SMOKE EXTRACTION SYSTEM Q. Kui Institute of Building Fire Research, China Academy of Building Research, Beijing,
More informationFIREFIGHTER/ENGINEER
CITY OF SAN MATEO ADOPTED CC: 8-3-81 REVISED CC: 3-27-84 REVISED CC: 1-22-92 REVISED CC: 4-19-98 FIRE UNIT NON-EXEMPT FIREFIGHTER/ENGINEER DEFINITION To prevent fires through active and effective inspections
More information1/8/ :02 AM. Public Input No. 2-NFPA [ Section No ] Statement of Problem and Substantiation for Public Input
Public Input No. 2-NFPA 259-2015 [ Section No. 2.3.1 ] 2.3.1 ASTM Publications. ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. ASTM D 5865, Standard Test Method
More informationNational Fire Protection Association. 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA Phone: Fax:
National Fire Protection Association 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471 Phone: 617-770-3000 Fax: 617-770-0700 www.nfpa.org M E M O R A N D U M TO: NEC Code-Making Panel 2 FROM: Kimberly Shea, Administrator,
More informationTruro Police Department. Fire Emergencies. Policy Number: OPS-9.02 Effective Date: June 1, 2000 REFERENCE:
Truro Police Department Fire Emergencies Policy Number: OPS-9.02 Effective Date: June 1, 2000 REFERENCE: Accreditation Standards: Mass. Gen. Law: Chap. 89 sec 7A, 268 sec 32A Other: Policy: It is the policy
More informationChapter 4: Fire Protection Systems
Chapter 4: Fire Protection Systems Automatic Extinguishing Systems (Fire Sprinklers) One of the most important aspects of a storage warehouse inspection is ensuring that the automatic extinguishing system
More information