Code of Conduct
This Code of Conduct represents our commitment to upholding the highest standards of ethical and professional behavior in all aspects of our work. We are dedicated to delivering reliable, credible, and scientifically sound investigations that serve the interests of justice and our clients.
Formed in accordance with
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NFPA 1033 Standard for Professional Qualifications for Fire Investigator 2022 (Current Edition)
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NFPA 921 Guide for Fire and Explosion Investigations 2024 (Current Edition)
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Expert Witness Code of Conduct - Schedule 7 - Uniform Civil Procedure Rules 2005 [UCPR] (NSW)
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Insurance Council of Australia - Expert Report Best Practice Standard 2024
A copy of our Code of Conduct is available upon request. A summary can be found below.
Adherence to Standards
Ethical Conduct and Integrity
Commitment to Quality and Best Practices
Confidentiality and Professional Responsibility
All investigations conducted by Forensic Origin and Cause Investigations will strictly adhere to the NFPA 1033 Standard for Professional Qualifications for Fire Investigator (2022 Edition). Our investigators meet or exceed the qualifications and competencies outlined in this standard, ensuring that all investigative work is performed with the highest level of expertise and professionalism. We also follow the NFPA 921 Guide for Fire and Explosion Investigations (2024 Edition) as the authoritative source for best practices and methodologies in fire and explosion investigations. This guide will inform all technical and procedural aspects of our investigative process, ensuring consistency, accuracy, and scientific rigor.
Our investigators will conduct themselves with the utmost integrity, maintaining objectivity, impartiality, and independence throughout the investigative process. We commit to providing unbiased and fact-based conclusions, free from external pressures or influences. We will adhere to the Expert Witness Code of Conduct - Schedule 7 - Uniform Civil Procedure Rules 2005 (NSW) when providing expert testimony or preparing reports for legal proceedings. Our duty is to the court, and we will always present our findings truthfully, transparently, and with full disclosure of all relevant facts.
In preparing expert reports, we will comply with the Insurance Council of Australia - Expert Report Best Practice Standard (2024). Our reports will be comprehensive, clearly presented, and adhere to the best practices outlined by the industry, ensuring they are robust, defensible, and meet the highest standards expected by insurers, law firms, and other stakeholders.
We are committed to maintaining the confidentiality of all client information, case details, and sensitive data encountered during our investigations. Information will only be shared with authorized parties as required by law or professional duty. All investigators are responsible for staying current with continuing education, training, and professional development to ensure ongoing compliance with the latest standards and advancements in fire and explosion investigations.
Transparency and Accountability
Respect for Legal and Regulatory Frameworks
Professional Collaboration and Conduct
We will document all investigative activities thoroughly, maintaining clear, detailed records that support the findings and conclusions of our investigations. In cases where discrepancies or conflicts of interest arise, they will be disclosed immediately, and appropriate actions will be taken to maintain the integrity of the investigation.
Our investigations will comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and professional standards. We recognize the importance of these frameworks in ensuring the validity and legality of our work, and we will operate within these boundaries at all times. We will ensure that all expert reports, testimonies, and findings are in strict accordance with the legal requirements outlined in the Uniform Civil Procedure Rules 2005 (NSW) and other relevant legislation.
We will work collaboratively with other professionals, including legal teams, insurers, and law enforcement, respecting their roles and contributions while maintaining our professional independence. All interactions with clients, peers, and other stakeholders will be conducted with professionalism, respect, and courtesy, reflecting the values and standards of Forensic Origin and Cause Investigations.