Forensic Engineering is the application of engineering principles and science in the investigation of failures. Vital to the field of forensic engineering is the process of investigating and collecting data related to design, materials, structures or components that failed. This involves inspections, collecting evidence, measurements, developing failure models. Often, detailed testing and measurements are conducted to validate findings.
For 50 years BHATE’s staff has investigated and analyzed causes of failures related earthwork, embankments, excavations, retention structures, building foundations, and structural failures to develop remedial solutions on projects through the Southeast U.S.
We take a multi-disciplinary approach toward solving forensic engineering problems in a technically accurate and cost-efficient manner. Common issues that may arise that a forensic geotechnical analysis can help with include:
- Expansive or Collapsible Soils
- Settlement of Poorly Compacted earth and rock fills
- Moisture Intrusion, Groundwater and Subsurface Drainage
- Infrastructure, bridge and Pavement Failures
- Retaining Structures and Slope Failures
- Integrity Testing and Foundation Failures
- Excavation and Shoring System Failures
- Underground Collapse – Sinkholes – Underground Mines Differing Site Condition Disputes
- Corrosion failures
Despite engineering’s focus on designing and constructing safe structures failures can still and do happen. BHATE forensic engineering investigations are conducted by certified expert engineers who apply their expertise to analyze the cause of the problem. Our forensic engineers bring the following skills to the team.
HOW CAN BHATE HELP?
Our firm possesses specialized equipment and experienced personnel to aid in forensic investigations. Our staff members have conducted many forensic engineering projects in a variety of construction environments and served as expert witnesses. Forensic engineering services typically consist of the following:
- Review of existing data and reports
- Conduct field, laboratory and engineering analyses to investigate distress causation Field instrumentation installation to monitor structural or earth changes over time Evaluate risk of further distress.
- Develop recommendations for repairs.
- Develop cost estimates and construction documents for various repair methods. Provide construction administration and quality assurance of remedial work