When a structure fails, the consequences can be devastating. Lives, operations, and reputations may all be at risk. At Yenem Engineering Services, we specialise in failure investigations that uncover the real reasons behind structural distress or collapse, so companies can act with clarity and confidence.
Our work isn’t about blame. It’s about facts. Through engineering expertise and forensic analysis, we provide practical answers to the most pressing question after any incident: why did it fail?
Why Failure Investigations Matter
Structural failures rarely happen because of a single factor. They’re usually the result of a combination of design, construction, environmental, or operational issues. Failure investigations are critical because they separate assumptions from evidence. Instead of speculation or finger-pointing, our clients receive a structured analysis that explains:
- What happened
- Why it happened
- How to prevent it from happening again
From collapsed tanks and corroded conveyor trusses to leaning retaining walls and cracked support beams, our team has seen first-hand how even small oversights can escalate into major failures. Every failure investigation is a chance to prevent recurrence, strengthen safety, and protect valuable assets.
Common Causes of Structural Failure
In our decades of experience, we’ve found that most failures can be traced back to multiple contributing factors. Some of the most common include:
- Excessive or unexpected loading conditions
- Design flaws or incorrect assumptions
- Material defects, deterioration, or fatigue
- Construction errors or poor workmanship
- Environmental exposure such as corrosion or extreme temperatures
- Operational misuse or overload
- Lack of maintenance or inspection routines
But behind many technical causes lies something deeper: human and organisational factors. Poor planning, shortcuts, or inadequate oversight often play a role. That’s why thorough failure investigations are so important, because they reveal the entire chain of causation.
Our Approach to Failure Investigations
At Yenem, we use a structured, evidence-based process designed to deliver clarity. Our failure investigations typically follow five steps:
- Information Gathering
We collect all available data, from original design drawings and load histories to maintenance records and witness statements. - On-Site Inspection
Our engineers examine the failed components, document site conditions, and take measurements and photographs to capture all relevant evidence. - Structural Modelling and Simulation
Using advanced tools, we replicate loading conditions, identify stress points, and test different scenarios. - Root Cause Analysis
Multiple failure hypotheses are considered before applying models like the Swiss Cheese Model to pinpoint root causes. - Reporting and Recommendations
Clients receive clear, jargon-free reports outlining what went wrong, why it happened, and what to do next.
The result? A practical roadmap to repair, redesign, or replace, backed by engineering expertise and forensic rigour.
Beyond the Investigation
Our work doesn’t stop at reports. Failure investigations often extend into expert witness services, where we can provide independent testimony in legal or insurance cases, or act as a shadow expert to review and critique an expert witness’s report, help prepare questions for cross-examination of that expert, or provide internal advice to strengthen a party’s case.
We also provide practical guidance for recommissioning structures safely and reducing downtime in critical industries. Whether it’s mining infrastructure, processing facilities, or heavy industrial equipment, our recommendations focus on keeping operations safe, reliable, and efficient.
When to Call Us
You should reach out for a failure investigation if:
- A structure has failed or shows signs of distress
- You notice unusual vibrations, cracking, or corrosion
- You need an independent opinion after an incident
- Legal or insurance proceedings require forensic analysis
- You want third-party verification before resuming operations
Trusted Engineering Insight
At Yenem, our promise is simple: clear answers when you need them most. With decades of real-world experience, we mobilise quickly, deliver thorough failure investigations, and provide practical solutions to help you move forward with confidence.
If you’re facing a structural issue, don’t leave it to chance.
Contact Yenem Engineering Services today to discuss your structural failure investigation needs.