Key Considerations For Selecting a Field Evaluation Body (FEB)
When you need a Field Evaluation Body (FEB) to assess your equipment, it’s crucial to select an organization that not only has the technical knowledge to perform the evaluation but can also guide you through the process. A trusted FEB will help you understand compliance requirements, minimize delays, and confirm that your equipment meets all necessary standards.
In this blog, we’ll explore the key factors you should consider when selecting an FEB including accreditation and certifications, technical experience, flexibility, customer support, partnership opportunities, and the unique requirements for special inspections. Understanding these considerations will help you make an informed decision on selecting your next FEB as well as have a smooth evaluation process.
Accreditations & Certifications
A credible Field Evaluation Body (FEB) should hold accreditations from recognized accreditation bodies such as the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB), Standards Council of Canada (SCC) for special inspections in Canada, International Accreditation Service (IAS), or the American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA).
In the United States, field evaluation bodies must comply with NFPA standards such as NFPA 790, “Standard for Competency of Third-Party Field Evaluation Bodies”, NFPA 791, “Recommended Practice and Procedures for Unlabeled Electrical Equipment Evaluation”, and ISO/IEC 17020, “Conformity Assessment: Requirements for the Operation of Various Types of Bodies Performing Inspection.”
Accreditation ensures that the FEB has been audited and proven competent to conduct evaluations of unlisted or uncertified electrical equipment against the National Electrical Code (NEC) and other applicable standards. FEBs are also audited for competence in specific equipment categories, such as industrial machinery, medical equipment, laboratory equipment, modified switchboards, and switchgear.
Technical Expertise & Experience
The skill and knowledge of field evaluation personnel are essential to a successful evaluation. Evaluators must be well-trained to identify applicable codes and standards and apply them correctly to the equipment under review. Experience is particularly important when dealing with custom-built or modified equipment. Having in-depth knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and NFPA 79 is highly impactful, as these standards form the basis of field evaluations. Proficiency in the field evaluation process and experience with subcategories such as industrial control panels, fire doors and frames, transformers, industrial automation equipment, battery energy storage systems (BESS), laboratory equipment, and luminaires can make all the difference in the quality and accuracy of the evaluation.
Flexibility
No two evaluations are exactly the same. A Field Evaluation Body must be flexible both physically and mentally, ready to climb, crawl, and access hard-to-reach areas of equipment to confirm compliance. They must also be able to adjust to evolving project timelines, accommodate installation changes, and apply multiple standards when needed to address unique hazards. A flexible FEB helps keep your project on schedule despite unexpected challenges.
Customer Support & Responsiveness
For many customers, a field evaluation is an unfamiliar process. A quality Field Evaluation Body should provide clear communication, responsiveness, and guidance every step of the way. Prompt communication and quick turnaround times are essential, as delays can cost valuable time and money. Customer responsiveness does not just begin at the job site, it starts the moment an inquiry is submitted. This early engagement sets the tone for the entire evaluation process and ensures that project needs are addressed properly. An FEB that is responsive and able to complete projects on time makes all the difference in keeping your project moving forward. By maintaining open lines of communication and responding quickly to customer needs, the FEB confirms that you not only achieve compliance but also gain a better understanding of the purpose and process of field evaluations, helping you prepare for future compliance needs.
Partnership
An excellent Field Evaluation Body does more than deliver a service, they also become a trusted partner. When you have questions, whether related to a project or just general compliance concerns, your FEB should be your first point of contact. A strong partnership builds confidence, fosters collaboration, and leads to smoother projects over time.
Special Inspections
For equipment destined for installation in Canada, special inspections are required for custom or non-certified products. Unlike in the United States, these inspections can sometimes be completed before installation, even outside of Canada, under specific conditions. Special inspections follow Canadian standards and are overseen by the Standards Council of Canada (SCC), confirming that equipment meets Canadian compliance requirements.
Conclusion
Selecting the right Field Evaluation Body is critical to confirming compliance and supporting your projects safety and efficiency. The ideal FEB will be accredited, experienced, flexible, communicative, and committed to building a strong partnership with you.
NFPA Global Solutions delivers on all these key considerations. With a team of skilled engineers, internationally recognized accreditations, and the backing of NFPA’s 125+ years of leadership in safety standards, NFPA Global Solutions provides expertise and support throughout the evaluation process. Whether you need guidance on compliance, on-site evaluations, or special inspections for Canadian installations, NFPA Global Solutions is your trusted partner for helping to achieving safe and compliant equipment installations.