Introduction to the Forensic Engineering Process

This two-hour course introduces the forensic engineering process, from documenting and investigating failures to determining causation and responsibility. Instruction addresses the distinctions between forensic and design engineering, investigation and research methods, and the application of evidence to prove or disprove failure theories.

Learning Objectives:

Learning Objective 1: Learners will be able to explain the distinctions between forensic and design engineering, including the importance of objectivity and the avoidance of bias in failure investigations.

Learning Objective 2: Learners will be able to describe the forensic engineering process, including failure documentation, investigation methods, test protocols, and the use of background information to establish context.

Learning Objective 3: Learners will be able to analyze evidence to determine causation and responsibility by applying systematic methods for proving and disproving failure theories.

Learning Objective 4: Learners will be able to identify lessons learned from engineering failures and apply them to improve design and construction practices.