Refrigeration Failure Leads to Tobacco Loss

A shipment of tobacco leaves, cut and rolled into bobbins at an overseas factory, arrived in Asia for further processing. When the leaves were prepared for rolling into cigars, they were found to be mouldy and no longer usable. An initial inspection of the refrigerated storage container revealed multiple component failures, leading to a loss of refrigeration.

Envista Forensics was engaged to determine the cause of the refrigeration system failure and reconstruct the timeline of events to establish when the tobacco deteriorated.

Investigation: Examining the Shipping Container and Data Records

Envista dispatched an engineer to inspect the shipping container and tobacco in Asia. The team also obtained and analyzed temperature logging records, maintenance history, and employee activity logs to assess monitoring practices and pinpoint when cooling issues began. Additionally, Envista conducted a full inspection of the refrigeration system to identify which components remained operational.

By comparing the functioning components with temperature records, Envista determined the timing of the failure. Finally, Envista oversaw a destructive teardown of the unit’s compressor to confirm the root cause of the failure.

Findings & Impact: Identifying the Root Cause and Insurance Implications

Envista identified the failure date of the compressor and reconstructed the operational history of other key components. The teardown confirmed that the mechanical failure was due to normal wear and tear, aligning with Envista’s initial analysis. The investigation also revealed procedures implemented by the insured that inadvertently delayed the detection of refrigeration issues. The findings provided insurers with critical information necessary for coverage determination.