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The failed part, including all its fragments, should be subjected to a thorough visual examination before any cleaning is undertaken. For example, traces of paint or corrosion found on a portion of a fracture surface may provide evidence that the crack was present in the surface for some time before complete fracture occurred. The preliminary examination should begin with unaided visual inspection. The unaided eye has exceptional depth of focus, the ability to examine large areas rapidly and to detect changes of color and texture. If required, macroscopic examination is performed to document the main features by using low‐power magnification. It is important at this stage to fully document the “as‐received” condition and photograph overall fracture and position. The temptation to put fracture surfaces back together should be avoided as it can damage fracture features. Because metallic parts are prone to oxidation, a reaction between the metal and the oxygen in the air, failed components should ideally be examined as soon as possible. Documentation of damage and cracking surrounding a fracture, including damage patterns and crack origins, scores, scuffing, dents, distortions, evidence of plastic deformation, and fractures is an important step in assessing relevance to final failure.