Month: October 2024

Expert Spotlight: Fred Campagna, CCM, CBM

Haag 100 Year Anniversary - A century of forensic innovation

Fred Campagna: Forensic Meteorologist with Expert Insights into Severe Weather Events

Fred Campagna, CCM, CBM brings a wealth of experience as director of forensic meteorology, building on his 26-year career as an on-air meteorologist across major U.S. cities. Transitioning from broadcast to forensic meteorology over a decade ago, Fred has developed a unique expertise in reconstructing critical weather conditions for complex legal and insurance cases. He finds profound purpose in forensic work, leveraging his knowledge to determine accurate weather conditions during events like severe storms, slip-and-falls, and even trans-oceanic shipping incidents, where data scarcity often complicates analysis. His meticulous approach has been invaluable in high-stakes cases, such as estimating precipitation totals for ocean-bound cargo ships by reanalyzing satellite data and ship coordinates—a technical feat unmatched by simplified estimations.

Fred Campagna Forensic Meteorology Director

Fred’s commitment to excellence is reflected in his dual certifications from the American Meteorological Society (AMS), as both a Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM) and a Certified Consulting Meteorologist (CCM) —distinctions held by fewer than 25 active meteorologists nationwide. These credentials not only affirm his technical and analytical skills but also highlight his exceptional communication abilities, honed through years of sharing complex weather data with television audiences and, later, juries. His testimony work since 2015 illustrates his seamless ability to translate technical weather analysis into courtroom evidence, enhancing client confidence in his conclusions.

Continuous learning defines Fred’s career. As a long-standing member of the AMS, he stays current with the latest advances in meteorological research and technology. This commitment, paired with hands-on experience in weather pattern analysis, strengthens his ability to adapt and grow within the evolving field of forensic meteorology. With advancements in weather data density and technology on the horizon, Fred is particularly excited about how these tools will enhance the accuracy and depth of future weather reconstructions. He envisions forensic meteorology as crucial for managing risk in rapidly developing areas, with his team providing precise reconstructions for claims and risk assessment amid climate challenges.

When not engaged in his work, Fred finds balance through family time and competitive running. As a former soccer player, he has transformed his athletic drive into running, striving to be among the fastest in his race category.

High-Voltage Batteries May Short Circuit: Porsche Cars North America, Inc. is recalling certain 2020-2023 Taycan vehicles.

NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V731000

Manufacturer Porsche Cars North America, Inc.

Components ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Potential Number of Units Affected 193

Summary

Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (Porsche) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Taycan vehicles. The high-voltage battery may experience a short circuit within the battery module.

Remedy

Owners are advised to only charge their vehicles to a maximum of 80% battery capacity until the repair has been completed. Dealers will replace the affected modules in the high-voltage battery, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 29, 2024. Owners may contact Porsche customer service at 1-800-767-7243. Porsche’s number for this recall is ARB5. This recall expands previous recall numbers 23V-840, 24V-215, and 24V-217. Vehicles previously repaired under the prior recalls will need to have the new remedy completed.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

High-Voltage Batteries May Short Circuit: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. is recalling certain 2022-2024 E-TRON GT, and RS E-TRON GT vehicles

NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V726000

Manufacturer Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.

Components ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Potential Number of Units Affected 6,499

Summary

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2022-2024 E-TRON GT, and RS E-TRON GT vehicles. The high-voltage battery may experience a short circuit within the battery module.

Remedy

Dealers will install advanced diagnostic software as the final remedy free of charge, anticipated to be available in the first quarter

of 2025.

For vehicles where on-line data is available (Audi recall number 931A), as an interim measure, the vehicles will be monitored

through online data evaluation at no cost to owners. Where the online data shows a potentially critical battery module, the owner

will be contacted and advised to only charge the vehicle up to 80% charging capacity until the affected module can be replaced at

an authorized Audi dealer, free of charge.

For vehicles where online-data is not available (Audi recall number 931B), as an interim measure, dealers will perform diagnostic

procedures and, if necessary, replace battery module assemblies, free of charge. Owners of these vehicles will also be advised to

only charge their vehicle up to 80% charging capacity, and the inspection may have to be repeated before the software becomes

available.

Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 29, 2024. Owners may contact Audi customer service at

1-800-253-2834. Audi’s numbers for this recall are 931A and 931B. This recall expands and replaces previous recall numbers

24V-229, and 24V-228. Vehicles previously repaired under the prior recalls will need to have the new remedy completed.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or go to nhtsa.gov.

Research & Testing in Action: A Dog’s Story – October 2024

Research & Testing in action: A dog’s story

By Steve Smith, PE, Forensic Engineer, Director of Research & Testing

In 2018, Haag Research & Testing expanded our testing capabilities by acquiring a Heat Flow Meter (HFM) and adding ASTM C518 Standard Test Method for Steady-State Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of the Heat Flow Apparatus to our laboratory accreditation. The HFM gave us the ability to measure the R-value (thermal resistance to conductive heat flow) of insulation. Since that time, we’ve used the HFM to measure the R-value of roof insulation, artificial athletic track surfacing, insulation for medical equipment, experimental insulation formulations, and even wall panels.

We also used the HFM to conduct a research study on the effects of hail-caused dents on the thermal performance of insulation under single-ply roofing. Our research paper for the study can be found here.

Earlier this year, we were contacted by an entrepreneur, Leena Chitnis, who invented a special dog bed that was designed to keep her recently adopted rescue dog warm while camping in cold weather. The bed combines thermal insulation to insulate her little Kashi from the cold ground and a detachable sleeping bed cover to keep cold air off Kashi while sleeping at night. Leena was so excited to finally find a laboratory that was willing to test the dog bed so that she could provide data to her customers and in hopes of being highlighted on a popular celebrity investor show on network TV in the coming season. A few months before being contacted by Leena, we lost our little Shizu “Ranger” to illness and offered to test the dog bed free of charge to help Leena with her dog bed project and to honor our little buddy.

1. Heat Flow Meter (HFM)
Ranger

Okay, enough about Mr. Ranger. 

Our testing of the RuffRest Ulimate Dog Bed (patent pending)  demonstrated the sleeping bag helped retain body heat and the R-value was more than adequate to insulate dogs from the cold ground. We give Leena, Kashi, and all other camping dogs our best wishes, and hope they stay warm while camping this winter and many winters to come.  

Learn more about Leena’s RuffRest Ultimate Dog Bed here- www.timberdog.com.  

If you have a testing project, contact Haag to see how we can help.

STEVE SMITH, P.E., DIRECTOR OF RESEARCH & TESTING, PRINCIPAL ENGINEER
 

Steven R. Smith is a Forensic Engineer with Haag Engineering Co., and the Director of Research & Testing. Mr. Smith is an experienced forensic engineer who began his career with Haag more than 24 years ago. He spent seven years working as a Senior Lab Technician while earning a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering degree from The University of Texas at Arlington. He has been involved with the lab throughout his career, and has been able to leverage his extensive and practical engineering field experience with research and testing projects.

Mr. Smith’s areas of expertise include accident reconstruction, mechanical equipment evaluations, code and standards compliance, roofing system evaluations, and fires and explosions. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in Arkansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, and Wisconsin. He is a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), and Pi Tau Sigma National Honor Society. Prior to joining Haag, Mr. Smith was a Petty Officer Second Class in the United States Navy. He trained at the Navy Nuclear Power Training Command Center in Orlando Florida and was stationed on the USS Arkansas (CGN-41), where he maintained reactor and steam plant chemistry, performed radiological controls, and operated mechanical equipment in the propulsion plant.

 

 

Any opinions expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of Haag Technical Services, Haag Engineering Co., Haag Education, or parent company, Haag Global, Inc.

Expert Spotlight: Benjamin Irwin, PE, P.Eng, DFE

Haag 100 Year Anniversary - A century of forensic innovation

Benjamin Irwin: Expert Forensic Engineer Driving Innovation

Benjamin (Ben) Irwin’s expertise as a forensic engineer is defined by his deep understanding of engineering, architectural, and construction principles, coupled with over 26 years of professional experience. Ben’s career spans a wide range of consulting services, including multi-disciplinary engineering and architectural design, damage and repair assessments, construction defects, safety engineering, and expert witness litigation support. His qualifications as a registered Professional Engineer (P.E.) in 24 U.S. states and British Columbia, Canada (P.Eng.), along with his designation as a Model Law Engineer (MLE) by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES), underscore his commitment to the highest standards in the field. Ben’s thorough approach, coupled with his certification as a Diplomate Forensic Engineer (DFE) from the National Academy of Forensic Engineers, makes him a trusted leader in forensic investigations.

Ben Irwin, Forensic Engineer

A key example of Ben’s ability to lead and adapt in complex, high-stakes environments was his response to a vehicle impact assignment with structural collapse potential. Within 24 hours, he assembled a team of engineers, architects, and construction personnel, mobilized 3D scanning equipment and high-reach lifts to respond to the developing public safety concerns. His swift actions led to a same-day letter identifying the imminent collapse danger and the need to cordon off the area. When the structure partially collapsed the following weekend, Ben coordinated a second rapid response. He addressed the potential dangers of collapse progression, ensured safe debris removal, and facilitated further inspection and remediation efforts.  His quick thinking and ability to mobilize resources underscores his leadership in urgent response scenarios.

Innovation is central to Ben’s approach to forensic engineering. In a fire-damage loss case involving a building next to a collapsed structure, he developed a phased investigative methodology to address safety concerns during inspection. Using 3D scanning technology, Ben assessed the structural deformation of a formerly shared wall from nearby rooftops, then used the data to plan safe entry for further analysis from the inside out. This methodical, data-driven approach not only allowed for a safe inspection but also prevented further collapse. His strategic use of technology and phased investigations exemplifies his ability to provide precise, adaptive engineering solutions for both assessments and remediation.

Collaboration is a cornerstone of Ben Irwin’s work, particularly when tackling complex claims and client assignments. He leads cross-functional teams with a clear understanding that no two assignments are alike—each investigation requires a tailored approach that reflects the unique challenges presented. Ben believes in engaging collaboratively with clients from the very beginning, helping them refine their needs and align their expectations with scientifically reliable investigative methodologies. This proactive collaboration sets the stage for more effective investigations, ensuring that clients are empowered and informed throughout the process.

The internal collaboration among the team is just as critical. Ben strategically builds teams that can leverage individual strengths while avoiding unnecessary overlap in efforts, all with the goal of delivering the highest-quality investigation and reporting. His ability to organize, plan, and direct complex investigations, along with his willingness to step back and let others on his team shine, exemplifies the collaborative culture he fosters.

Ben’s leadership and accomplishments have earned him notable recognition, including being named Project Leader of the Year in 2021. His work spans a diverse range of projects, from large-scale commercial and residential developments of complex buildings to high-rise skyscrapers and even bridges. Ben’s experience in addressing post-collapse, fire-related damage, and high-risk structural failures makes him an invaluable asset in forensic investigations.

Looking ahead, Ben is excited about the future of forensic engineering, particularly in the development of new ways to distill complicated in-field data, even when acquired at large scale by teams of experts, into clear, concise, and meaningful visualizations that are easier and faster for clients to understand. His passion for advancing the field and his commitment to excellence make him an exceptional figure in the industry.

Haag Launches New Geoportal Hurricane Reports

Haag Hurricane Reports provides reliable hurricane reports.

Haag Launches New Geoportal Hurricane Reports: Reliable, Court-Defensible Data for Insurance and Legal Professionals

DALLAS, TX — Haag, a Salas O’Brien Company, the United States oldest and most respected forensic consulting firm, renowned for its expertise in forensic meteorology, announced the launch of its new Hurricane Reports, now available via the Haag Geoportal. With this new addition, users gain access to highly accurate and defensible hurricane and tropical storm data, reinforcing Haag’s commitment to providing transparent, trusted, and actionable weather information.

The Haag Geoportal, initially launched in June with Storm Reports offering verified wind, hail, and tornado data for property-related claims, now adds Hurricane Reports as an essential resource for insurance and legal clients. This addition sets a new standard for how weather data is delivered and used in claims investigations, litigation, and decision-making.

What Sets Haag’s Hurricane Reports Apart?

The Haag Geoportal Hurricane Reports leverage data directly from authoritative sources, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Hurricane Center (NHC), the United States Geological Survey, NCEI Local Climatological Data, and NWS Local Storm Reports via the Iowa Environmental Mesonet (IEM). The Reports cover both the Atlantic and Eastern Pacific basins, providing critical hurricane and tropical storm data such as wind intensity, wind swath, track, and high-water marks. The data is available from the 2017 hurricane season to the present, allowing users to analyze both past storms and ongoing events.

Unlike other reports in the marketplace, Haag’s Hurricane Reports do not rely on proprietary algorithms which are difficult to defend in court. Instead, the Geoportal aggregates and presents raw, verifiable data that is both transparent and reliable, making Haag’s Storm and Hurricane Reports an essential tool for insurance claims adjusters, legal professionals, and those involved in disaster recovery.

Key Features of Haag’s Hurricane Reports:

  • Active Storm Tracking: During active storms, the Hurricane Reports display dynamic data, including forecast and observed tracks, wind swath, and forecast error cones. This information is updated every 15 minutes as storms progress, ensuring users always have the latest data.
  • Customizable Mapping Tools: Users can view hurricane and tropical storm data through an easy-to-navigate map interface, with the ability to zoom, select specific data layers, and expand buffer zones to up to 40 miles beyond the area of interest.
  • Court-Defensible Reports: All data is sourced from trusted agencies like the NHC and USGS, ensuring transparency and reliability without the use of proprietary models.
  • Historical Data: Users can retrieve reports on storms dating back to 2017, offering valuable historical insight for analysis and legal cases.
  • Additional Data Layers: Reports include supplementary information such as High Water Marks (HWM), Peak Summaries (PS), Local Climatological Data (LCD), and Preliminary Local Storm Reports (PLSR), providing a comprehensive view of storm impacts.

Value to Insurance and Legal Professionals

Haag’s Hurricane Reports provide an unmatched level of clarity, accuracy, and ease of use. The interactive platform enables users to visualize data in relation to specific locations, zoom in for detailed analysis, and generate PDF reports that are tailored to their needs. This provides professionals with solid evidence for claim investigations, disputes, or litigation.

Get Started Today

The Haag Geoportal Hurricane Reports are now available to all users. Discover how the Haag Geoportal can enhance and expedite your data analysis and reporting process. Visit our website to learn more, create your free account, and request a demo to see the platform in action.

About Haag, a Salas O’Brien Company

Established in 1924, Haag, a Salas O’Brien Company, is proud to celebrate 100 years of forensic innovation and consulting excellence. Haag’s comprehensive services include forensic engineering, forensic meteorology, forensic architecture, construction consulting, fire origin and cause, forensic research and testing, education courses and training, and GIS, BIM, and 3D scanning technology solutions. We specialize in serving the legal, insurance, construction, and manufacturing industries, plus private companies. With a century of expertise, Haag has become the national authority in examining, analyzing, and consulting on complex engineering and technical challenges following failure and damage to the built environment. In June 2024, Haag merged with Salas O’Brien, an employee-owned engineering and technology firm at the forefront of sustainable design. Together, Haag is poised to embrace new challenges, adapt to evolving industries, and provide cutting-edge innovations that will shape the future of forensic engineering and consulting.

About Salas O’Brien

Salas O’Brien is an employee-owned engineering and technical services firm focused on advancing the human experience through the built environment. Our team is engineered for impact™, helping clients achieve critical goals, advancing our team members through growth and opportunity, and operating at the center of important global issues including sustainability and decarbonization. We are a top firm as ranked by Engineering News-Record and Consulting-Specifying Engineer, and we have appeared for over a decade on the Inc. 5000 list of North America’s fastest-growing private companies.