Meet the Team: Kaitn Walker

We are pleased to introduce Kaitn Walker, a dedicated Scientist and Fire Investigator at Brookes Bell.  With a deep academic background and a passion for forensic science, Kaitn brings scientific rigour and unique expertise to the world of commercial shipping.  Her extensive training and qualifications, including a Forensic Chemistry Masters from the University of the West of England, underpin her specialised work in fire investigation and cargo science.

Originally joining Brookes Bell as a part of our fuel testing team in 2020, Kaitn’s journey into fire investigation began during her studies, where she discovered a keen interest in the subject.  “I did a dedicated module on fire investigation at university, and that really inspired my interest.  It was exactly what I wanted to do, so when the opportunity arose within Brookes Bell, it felt like a natural step forward,” she explains.

At Brookes Bell, Kaitn’s work spans a broad range of responsibilities, from investigating marine fire incidents to investigating cargo fires.  “What makes working in marine fire cases so engaging is how varied they are. Sometimes our role involves monitoring cargoes like coal for gas emissions, either remotely or on site.  In other cases, we go on board after an engine fire or other incident to gather physical evidence for the investigation,” she says.

Her investigative role at Brookes Bell is built on a thorough and methodical approach, beginning with a detailed review of documents and evidence.  Her careful document review, which includes analysing Witness Statements and, when available, cargo documents provide a picture of each incident before she even steps onto the scene.

A central feature of Kaitn’s role is the multidisciplinary nature of fire investigations.  “Fire incidents can involve many different disciplines.  For marine fires, we often work alongside Master Mariners, Marine Engineers, and even Metallurgical experts.  That teamwork can be essential to fully understand what happened,” she notes.  By collaborating closely with other specialists, Kaitn ensures that every detail is considered and that the root causes of incidents are properly identified.

Her qualifications and background have equipped her to handle the complex challenges that arise during investigations.  Kaitn’s expertise in forensic chemistry and fire investigation, reinforced by her work in cargo science, means she brings a robust scientific perspective to every case.  “Documents can help you build a background and understand what you might be dealing with,” she explains, “but the physical inspection is the most important part of any investigation.”  This balanced, evidence-led approach ensures that each investigation not only addresses the immediate issue but also contributes to broader safety practices across the maritime industry.

Her role at Brookes Bell is not just about resolving fire incidents; it’s about shaping a safer future in the maritime sector.  By combining her academic background, specialised training, and practical experience, Kaitn plays a vital role in ensuring that our clients receive thorough and accurate fire investigations.  Her work influences the development of better safety and risk management strategies, helping to protect both lives and assets at sea.

We are proud to have Kaitn as part of our global team.  Her scientific insight, team spirit, and meticulous approach make her an essential contributor to Brookes Bell’s mission.  We look forward to the positive impact she will continue to have as she drives forward innovative solutions in fire investigation and cargo safety.