This course is designed for Fire/ Arson Investigators to better know the principals of wood construction and how a thorough knowledge of wood construction can benefit an investigation. It will review key sections of NFPA 921. The program will highlight provisions of the International Residential Code in order to call attention to possible code violations that could possibly cause unusual or rapid-fire spread and failure of an assembly.

Learning Objectives:

1. Fire Investigation Basics: Review the scientific method as a “systematic approach” to fire investigation and why a knowledge of building construction is required
2. Building Construction: Identify the 5 types of building construction and wood construction methods. Focus on various wood construction methods.
3. Residential Code Provisions: Discuss specific code requirements and how failure to meet the code can result in rapid fire spread or failure.
4. Fire Performance of Wood Products: Review the fire performance of wood and wood products including char rate. Changes in housing stock and furnishings that effect flashover times

Funding provided in part by the Softwood Lumber Board.