What types of equipment are evaluated?
Electrical and industrial field evaluations are commonly performed on custom built or modified equipment, industrial machinery, control panels, electrical assemblies, and other equipment intended for permanent installation in commercial, industrial, or regulated environments.
When is a field evaluation typically required?
Field evaluations are typically required when equipment has not undergone traditional product certification, has been modified after manufacture, or when requested by an Authority Having Jurisdiction during inspection or review.
Note: FAQ responses reflect the general knowledge and experience of our technical team and are provided for informational purposes only. They do not constitute legal advice.
Does a field evaluation replace product certification or listing?
No. A field evaluation is a one-time conformity assessment for a specific piece of equipment and installation. It does not replace full product certification or listing for mass produced products.
Note: FAQ responses reflect the general knowledge and experience of our technical team and are provided for informational purposes only. They do not constitute legal advice.
Will a field evaluation be accepted by the Authority Having Jurisdiction?
Field evaluations performed by an accredited Field Evaluation Body are commonly accepted by Authorities Having Jurisdiction when conducted to applicable codes, standards, and jurisdictional requirements. However, acceptance is at the discretion of the AHJ and may be subject to additional local requirements. Customers should confirm acceptance criteria with their AHJ prior to engaging field evaluation services.
Note: FAQ responses reflect the general knowledge and experience of our technical team and are provided for informational purposes only. They do not constitute legal advice.
Are non-conformities identified during the evaluation?
Yes. Any non-conformities identified during the evaluation are documented, so they can be addressed prior to approval or acceptance.
How are field evaluation results documented?
Results are provided in documented field evaluation reports that summarize applicable requirements, observations, and findings to support regulatory review and AHJ decision making.
What is the process for a field evaluation?
The process typically includes the following steps:
- Engage a Field Evaluation Body: The customer engages an accredited Field Evaluation Body, such as NFPA Global Solutions, to provide conformity assessment services acceptable to the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
- Discuss scope and requirements: NFPA Global Solutions works with the customer and, where appropriate, the AHJ defines evaluation scope and applicable requirements.
- Conduct the evaluation: The field evaluation is performed, and a field evaluation label may be applied if all applicable requirements are met. Identified non-conformities must be addressed before final acceptance.
- Receive a report: A documented field evaluation report is issued to support regulatory review and AHJ decision making.
