In determining what happened in an injury producing stone collapse, there are a number of factors to consider. The first and most important is to present all findings in simple terms that anyone can understand, since it's very unlikely that those seeing a presentation will have the experience with stone that an expert does. Their job, to which the analyst must be sensitive, is to determine whose responsibility covers the event, and perhaps what steps could have been taken to prevent it from happening.
Once the expert is in this mind set, their report can be based on a template designed to facilitate comprehension. State the conclusions drawn from the report as brief, one line conclusions itemized as a list on the first page of the report. Then, in the same order as the list, explain each point made in detail, providing the necessary evidence to build a foundation for that point. After all points have been supported, in paragraphs as brief and concise as possible, create a one page description of how and why the collapse happened, working with the attorneys handling the case to adjust the tone to their needs. For example, the legal team may want to describe the injuries produced even if it has nothing to do with the collapse itself.
Then, as in the opening, use the list again but with bullet points and in slightly different words. This time, the size of each item can be doubled in order to add what could have been done to prevent the accident from happening in the first place. Attention should be focused on three things. These are;
1. Was the structure put together properly? In most cases, the answer will be no, and the expert must explain why.
2. Was proper maintenance and periodic examination done?
3. Was the item placed safely, in an area suitable for this kind of structure?
In the case above, too much glue (epoxy) was used, the surface to which it was bonded was not prepared and the epoxy did not adhere, there was an air bubble which water filled leading to ice forming and expanding, and a shim was used to make up for a poor fit. Easily understood descriptions for non-industry laymen are essential.
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