Topic outline

  • Electrical Forensics: Investigating System Failures and Fires

    Credits: 4 PDH

    PDH Course Description:

    This course provides a comprehensive exploration of electrical forensics, focusing on the systematic investigation of electrical system failures, fire origins, and related hazards. Engineers will examine the principles behind failure mechanisms, analyze real-world case studies, and review methodologies for determining causation in incidents involving electrical systems. 

    The course includes instruction on failure analysis techniques, interpretation of physical and digital evidence, legal considerations, and coordination with fire investigators, insurers, and forensic teams.

    Topics:

    Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

    • Understand the fundamental principles of electrical failure and fire ignition mechanisms.
    • Analyze common indicators of electrical system malfunction and arcing.
    • Interpret evidence from electrical failures and assess burn patterns, material degradation, and circuit behavior.
    • Apply forensic investigation techniques to determine the root cause of electrical incidents.
    • Differentiate between accidental failures, code violations, and malicious acts in forensic evaluations.
    • Collaborate with legal and insurance professionals to produce accurate and defensible reports.
    • Utilize applicable codes and standards such as NFPA 921 and IEEE guidelines in forensic assessments.

    To take this course:

    1.) Enroll in Course: Click below to enroll:
    (must be logged into your user account)


    2.) Study: Once enrolled, click below to begin the course:

    Download the Study Guide

    3.) Test: Once you've thoroughly read the course materials, please click below to take the final examination.

    Take the final exam

    4.) Certificate: A passing grade of 70% or higher on the exam, is required to receive the certificate of completion for this PDH course.

    Important – Payment is required prior to printing of your certificate of completion.

    We operate on a trust-based model. You are welcome to complete Steps 1 through 3 to fully review the course material at your leisure. 

    When you are ready to download and print your Certificate of Completion, we ask that payment has been completed for either the Unlimited Plan or individual PDH credit(s). Clicking the download button below serves as your digital confirmation that payment has been made.

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    Print the Certificate of Completion

    Intended Audience: This course is intended for licensed professional engineers practicing in electrical, fire protection, mechanical, forensic, civil, and systems engineering disciplines. 
    Publication Source: Cadistics Courseware

    Donald Parnell, PE

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