Service

Accident / Incident Investigation

The first step in plugging a leak is finding it. Through objective analysis, reports, and expert testimony, our expertise in cause and origin incident investigation puts our clients in a better position.

Case Studies

Swiss Cheese and an Oil Tank Incident

October 30, 2023

A refiner claimed that certain plant process technology upgrades provided by its technology licensor—who was also its engineering, procurement, and construction firm—did not meet the contracted performance guarantees. Baker & O’Brien was engaged to assess the modified process unit performance vis-à-vis the contracted basis, any incremental performance operating costs, and the rectification cost. We set out our analysis and opinions in an expert report and provided deposition testimony.

When the Big Bad Wolf Howls, It Is Time to Review the Insurance Claims

October 30, 2023

A hurricane wreaked extensive damage and delayed a pipeline construction project. Baker & O’Brien was asked to review the damage and prepare an estimate for the reparation and restoration costs of the large-diameter gas pipeline. Our expert report included the assessment for the costs of the i) pig launcher site, ii) interconnect site, iii) mainline block valve replacement, and iv) access roads.

Oxygen Pipeline Explosion – Incident Investigation

April 19, 2023

A large oxygen pipeline suddenly exploded with a massive fire, causing significant damage to a manufacturing facility. We were engaged to review process data, integrity management inspection data, and the subarctic ambient environmental conditions to opine on the origin and cause of the loss of primary containment. As a result, we identified a most likely cause based on a reasonable degree of engineering certainty that facilitated settlement discussions.