Robson Forensic Library

Up until 1992, the fire investigation community relied on the practices, procedures and beliefs of the fire investigators before them. The profession was plagued by misconceptions and myths. The first science based book on fire investigation was authored by Paul Kirk in 1969. The book was written to help fire investigators comprehend the basic principles of fire behavior as they were believed at the time. This book and other similar texts were filled with misconceptions that led to many erroneous determinations of cause.

This article by Forensic Fire Investigator, Timothy Wilhelm, discusses three such myths and the truth behind each top.

Highway, road and street Construction Work Zones (CWZs) are a frequent site of motor vehicle collisions, pedestrian and bicycle incidents. However, with proper planning and oversight of CWZs, many of these injury producing events can be prevented, and the safety of workers also protected.

In this article, the Highway Engineering Experts at Robson Forensic provide an introduction to Traffic Control and Guidance, including critical elements and fundamental principles of properly controlled CWZs.

In addition to the traditional drowning risks associated with swimming pools, the dynamic environments of oceans and lakes include hazards associated with changing tidal and weather conditions. In these dynamic environments, Lifeguards are responsible for ensuring the public’s safety through consistent and vigilant monitoring of the waterfront and active management of patrons.

There is a shared responsibility for safety between lifeguards and swimmers. Know your facts about beach safety, the proper terminology, and industry specific standards of care.

Effective sanitary programs, employee training, and managerial oversight are the cornerstone of any safe food operation. Despite industry specific training and quality assurance programs, consumers are regularly exposed to burns/scalds, allergens and other contaminants.

The flow of food is a term commonly used in the restaurant industry to describe how food moves from the farm to the table. There is a shared responsibility for safety along the flow of food to ensure the safe consumption of food products; each party is responsible for their own share in the process.

Although they are similar, there are distinct differences between roundabouts and traffic circles. In this article, Highway Engineer, Richard M. Balgowan, P.E., P.P., CPWM, CPM, discusses both roadway features with a specific focus on the benefits of mondern roundabouts and how they offer advantages in both safety and efficiency.