Diagnostic Forensic Tools in the Investigation of Electrocution Fatalities: A Case Study

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Occupational Safety
• Electrical Engineering

Background:

• Electrocution is a significant cause of workplace fatalities, often involving common household voltages.
• Previous incidents highlight a recurring need for stringent adherence to electrical safety protocols.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a comprehensive forensic investigation into a fatal electrocution incident.
• To identify contributing factors, including site and equipment deficiencies.
• To demonstrate the efficacy of a multidisciplinary forensic approach in electrocution cases.

Main Methods:

• Forensic medico-legal examination and autopsy.
• Histological and trace evidence analysis (SEM/EDX).
• Forensic engineering investigation, including site and apparatus examination.

Main Results:

• Identified significant safety violations: improper electrical connections and a faulty earthing wire.
• Classified the victim's demolition hammer as Class 0 machinery, lacking essential protection.
• Autopsy revealed electrical burns and visceral congestion; histology confirmed characteristic lesions.
• Trace evidence analysis detected metallization and novel geoscience evidence (dust/sediment transfer).

Conclusions:

• The multidisciplinary forensic approach effectively attributed the fatality to electrocution.
• Emphasized the critical importance of strict adherence to electrical safety standards.
• Highlighted the role of advanced forensic techniques in preventing and investigating such incidents.