Richard B. Marzola

Mr. Marzola earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from Cleveland State University. Mr. Marzola has conducted well over 2,000 investigations throughout his career. He is a licensed professional engineer (P.E.) in several states. He is a Certified Fire Investigator (IAAI-CFI®) through the International Association of Arson Investigators, and a Certified Fire and Explosion Investigator (CFEI) through the National Association of Fire Investigators (NAFI).

Mr. Marzola investigates electrical faults and malfunctions, particularly those suspected of causing a fire or damage. He performs failure analysis of electronic components and systems. He performs reconstruction of accidents to determine the mode, sequence, and/or component of failure resulting in damage to equipment. He performs analysis of various types of electrical power equipment (i.e., transformers, circuit breakers, power lines, commercial and residential electrical systems, etc.) and appliances onsite and/or in the laboratory to determine the cause or result of an incident (i.e., fire, equipment damage, or personal injury). He evaluates accidents involving electrical shock and/or electrocution. He conducts tests to determine the reliability of products.

Specializes in failure analysis of electronic cigarettes, 18650 lithium-ion batteries involving electronic cigarettes, computer and power tool battery packs, mobile electronics, consumer appliances (dryer, refrigerator, range, dishwasher, microwave, etc.), photovoltaic (PV) systems, and commercial/residential HVAC equipment.

Mr. Marzola is frequently retained nationwide by product manufacturers, attorneys, and insurance companies. He has testified as an expert witness in both depositions and trials in a number of Federal and State Courts.

Mr. Marzola’s professional affiliations include the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE), Ohio Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE-OH), the International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI), IAAI-Ohio Chapter, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and the National Association of Fire Investigators (NAFI).