What is NFPA 921 primarily used for?

NFPA 921 serves as a comprehensive guide specifically designed for fire and explosion investigations. It outlines the accepted practices and methodologies that fire investigators should follow when determining the origin and cause of fires. This document provides a systematic approach to investigation, helping professionals analyze evidence, make informed judgments, and arrive at scientifically sound conclusions.

The reasoning behind its focus on investigations includes the need for a standardized framework that promotes consistency and reliability in the field. This is essential for ensuring that findings are credible and can withstand scrutiny, whether in legal proceedings or in the context of safety improvements. Additionally, NFPA 921 emphasizes the importance of adhering to scientific principles and methodologies, which are crucial for thorough and accurate investigations.

While building codes, residential fire prevention, and specifications for investigative tools are important areas in fire safety and investigation, they are not the primary focus of NFPA 921. The document distinctly targets investigation processes, methodologies, and standards necessary for professionals involved in fire and explosion incidents.