What types of industrial control panels are evaluated?
Field evaluations are commonly performed on custom built, site assembled, imported, modified, or one of a kind industrial control panels intended for permanent installation.
When is a field evaluation typically required?
A field evaluation is typically required when a control panel is not listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory, has been modified after manufacture, or when requested by an Authority Having Jurisdiction during inspection.
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 UL 508A listing?
No. A field evaluation is a one-time conformity assessment for a specific panel and installation. It does not replace a UL 508A panel shop listing or any other factory listing or certification for mass-produced panels.
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.
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 to define 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.
