Article 90.7 of NFPA 70 (The National Electrical Code) requires any equipment that has not been listed or labeled to be subjected to a field inspection. In some jurisdictions in the United States the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) requires these inspections to be performed by an approved third party. Upon successful completion of the inspection a field label is applied to the equipment. NSS is an approved Field Evaluation firm in many jurisdictions in the United States.
NSS Field Evaluation Process
In most cases, NSS performs field evaluations in 3 phases. We have developed our process over many years of experience and have found our 3 phase process to be the most effective in ensuring that equipment is approved on time and in the most cost effective way.
Phase 1: Preliminary Evaluation: During the first phase, we review the equipment drawings and parts list and prepare an initial assessment report. The design requirements of the applicable standards are the focus of this evaluation. Our report identifies non-conformances, references applicable standards, and provides information on corrective actions.
Phase 2: Intermediate Evaluation: During the second phase, we perform a visual inspection of the equipment while it is under construction and prepare a comprehensive intermediate evaluation report. In addition to the design requirements of the applicable standards, the construction requirements are also assessed.
Phase 3: Final Evaluation: Phase 3 of the project includes the final equipment testing and inspections. If the equipment conforms to the applicable standards, a field evaluation label is affixed to the machine and a final report is issued. In many cases, the equipment can be labeled at the factory prior to shipment.
Field Evaluation Standards
The most common standards used in the field evaluation process are identified below:
NFPA 79 - Electrical Standard for Industrial Machinery