Field Evaluation Bodies
UKJAS gives certification to handle assessment bodies (FEB) in view of prerequisites in the UKJAS Authorization Rules for Field Assessment of Unlisted Electrical Hardware, ISO/IEC 17020 and NFPA Guidelines. UKJAS certify FEBs are able to assess unlisted electrical gear in the field. The UKJAS Authorization helps the Authority Having Locale (AHJ) to assess and support unlisted electrical hardware in the field.
📌 What Is a Field Evaluation Body (FEB)?
Field Evaluation Bodies (FEBs) are organizations that perform on-site evaluation or inspection of equipment, systems, or products directly in the field (rather than in a factory or laboratory) to determine conformity to applicable codes and standards.
These evaluations typically apply when equipment is unique, modified after manufacturing, or not covered by standard product listings, and an authority (such as a building inspector or other Authority Having Jurisdiction, AHJ) needs assurance that the item is safe and meets required technical standards. A2LA+1
Common characteristics of FEBs include:
- ✅ Field assessments rather than laboratory testing
- ✅ Evaluations under relevant codes or technical standards (e.g., electrical safety, building codes)
- ✅ Reports and field labeling that help AHJs approve use of non-certified or custom equipment
- ✅ Typically structured around standards such as ISO/IEC 17020 and, in some sectors, NFPA 790/791 for electrical equipment field evaluations. A2LA
📌 How FEBs Fit into Accreditation
Accreditation for Field Evaluation Bodies means an independent accreditation body assesses the FEB’s competence, impartiality, and ability to perform field evaluations consistently. For example:
- Accreditation can be based on ISO/IEC 17020, the international standard for inspection bodies, which may include field evaluations. A2LA
- Specific accreditation programs such as those from organizations like A2LA and IAS cover FEB accreditation and involve criteria tailored to field evaluations. A2LA
Accredited FEBs give confidence to regulators, clients, and AHJs that field evaluations are carried out to internationally recognized requirements.
📌 Field Evaluation in the UKJAS Context
On UKJAS (ukjas.com), Field Evaluation Bodies appear under Accreditation Standards as one of the categories for accreditation (alongside inspection bodies, labs, etc.) though the site doesn’t provide a dedicated descriptive page about them. In the UKJAS accreditation listing, “field evaluation bodies” is listed among the types of bodies they can accredit — implying UKJAS can grant accreditation to organizations performing these field evaluation functions. UKJAS
So, in the UKJAS framework:
- A Field Evaluation Body is recognized as an entity that can be formally accredited by UKJAS to perform field assessments under the relevant standards (like ISO/IEC 17020 or equivalent criteria). UKJAS
- Accreditation from UKJAS would typically mean the FEB meets the competence, independence, and procedural requirements expected of inspection/evaluation bodies.
📌 How FEBs Are Used in Practice
FEBs are especially important in industries where:
- Products or systems are installed or modified on-site and standard testing isn’t possible before use
- AHJs (like building departments, fire safety authorities, electrical inspectors) require evidence of conformity before permitting use
- Equipment doesn’t bear a standard certification mark (e.g., a “listed” label) but still needs to be demonstrated as safe or compliant. nfpaglobalsolutions.com
Examples include:
- Evaluating unique electrical equipment installations
- Inspections of modified machinery or custom products
- Assessments under building, fire, or electrical codes.
🧠 Summary
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Field Evaluation Body (FEB) | A body that conducts on-site conformity assessments of equipment, systems, or products, especially when standard certification isn’t feasible. A2LA |
| Accredited FEB | A FEB that has been independently assessed and recognized for competence under standards like ISO/IEC 17020. A2LA |
| UKJAS & FEBs | UKJAS can accredit organizations listed as field evaluation bodies, meaning they have met UKJAS requirements to perform field evaluations. UKJAS |
What is Required Field Evaluation Bodies
🔍 Why Field Evaluation Bodies Are Required
Field Evaluation Bodies become necessary when:
- Equipment is custom-built, one-of-a-kind, or modified
- Products are installed before certification
- Imported or legacy equipment lacks recognized certification
- On-site changes affect safety or compliance
- Authorities demand independent verification before approval
In such cases, field evaluation replaces or supplements laboratory certification.
🏛️ Role of UKJAS
Under UKJAS accreditation, Required Field Evaluation Bodies must demonstrate:
- Technical competence to perform field evaluations
- Impartiality and independence
- Qualified personnel
- Documented evaluation procedures
- Traceability to applicable codes and standards
UKJAS typically aligns FEB accreditation with internationally recognized standards, most commonly:
- ISO/IEC 17020 – Conformity assessment for inspection bodies
- Applicable sector-specific codes and regulations
📋 What Field Evaluation Bodies Do
Accredited FEBs under UKJAS may:
- Conduct on-site inspections and evaluations
- Verify compliance with safety, electrical, mechanical, or regulatory standards
- Issue field evaluation reports
- Support regulatory approvals by AHJs
- Apply field labels or statements of conformity (where applicable)
🏭 Industries Where FEBs Are Required
- Electrical & electronic equipment
- Industrial machinery
- Construction & infrastructure projects
- Energy and power installations
- Customized manufacturing systems
- Imported or refurbished equipment
✅ Summary
| Aspect | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Required Field Evaluation Bodies | Bodies that must be accredited to conduct on-site conformity evaluations |
| Purpose | Ensure safety and compliance when standard certification is not feasible |
| UKJAS Role | Accredits FEBs for competence, impartiality, and reliability |
| Applicable Standard | Commonly ISO/IEC 17020 |
| Outcome | Reliable field evaluation reports accepted by regulators and clients |
Who is Required Field Evaluation Bodies
🏢 Organizations That Must Be Field Evaluation Bodies
These organizations must obtain UKJAS accreditation as Field Evaluation Bodies if they perform field evaluations:
- Inspection bodies conducting on-site equipment conformity assessments
- Certification or conformity assessment bodies evaluating installed or modified products
- Engineering inspection agencies performing safety or compliance checks at site
- Third-party evaluation organizations assessing non-certified equipment
- Specialized technical evaluation firms for custom or unique installations
🏭 Industries Where FEBs Are Required
Field Evaluation Bodies are required in sectors such as:
- Electrical & electronic equipment
- Power and energy systems
- Construction and infrastructure
- Industrial machinery and automation
- Oil, gas, and petrochemical installations
- Manufacturing plants and special-purpose equipment
👤 Who Requires the Use of FEBs
The requirement for Field Evaluation Bodies typically comes from:
- Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) – regulators, inspectors, safety authorities
- Government departments and statutory authorities
- Project owners and EPC contractors
- Insurance and risk assessment agencies
- Clients requiring independent conformity verification
These stakeholders often mandate reports from accredited FEBs before approving installation, commissioning, or operation.
📑 Applicable Accreditation Standard
UKJAS generally accredits Field Evaluation Bodies in line with:
- ISO/IEC 17020 – Conformity assessment for inspection bodies
- Relevant national and international technical codes
✅ Summary
| Category | Who Is Required |
|---|---|
| Accredited Bodies | Inspection and evaluation organizations performing field conformity assessments |
| Industries | Electrical, energy, construction, machinery, industrial systems |
| Regulators | AHJs, government authorities, insurers, project owners |
| UKJAS Role | Accredits FEBs for competence and impartiality |
| Outcome | Accepted field evaluation reports and regulatory confidence |
When is Required Field Evaluation Bodies
⏱️ When Field Evaluation Bodies Are Required
Field Evaluation Bodies are required at the time of installation, modification, commissioning, or regulatory approval of equipment, products, or systems when:
- Equipment is custom-built or one-of-a-kind
– No existing certification or type approval exists. - Products are modified after manufacture
– Changes affect safety, performance, or compliance. - Imported or legacy equipment lacks recognized certification
– Certifications are missing, expired, or not accepted by authorities. - On-site installation alters original conformity
– Installation conditions affect compliance with applicable codes. - Regulatory approval is required before operation
– Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) demand independent evaluation. - Laboratory testing is impractical or impossible
– Due to size, location, or operational constraints. - Risk or safety-critical operations are involved
– High-risk environments require verified compliance.
🏗️ Project & Lifecycle Stages
FEBs are typically required during:
- Pre-commissioning inspections
- Before energization or start-up
- Before regulatory or statutory approval
- After significant modification or retrofit
- During safety or compliance audits
🏛️ UKJAS Context
Within UKJAS accreditation, the requirement applies when:
- An organization performs field evaluations as a service
- Such evaluations must be competent, impartial, and traceable
- Accreditation under standards like ISO/IEC 17020 is mandated by contracts, regulators, or clients
✅ Summary
| Situation | When FEB Is Required |
|---|---|
| Custom or modified equipment | At installation or modification stage |
| Non-certified products | Before approval or use |
| Regulatory approval | Prior to commissioning |
| Safety-critical systems | Before operation |
| On-site assessments | When lab testing is not feasible |
Where is Required Field Evaluation Bodies
📍 Where Field Evaluation Bodies Are Required
Field Evaluation Bodies are required on-site, including:
- Industrial plants and manufacturing facilities
- Construction sites and infrastructure projects
- Power plants, substations, and renewable energy installations
- Commercial and residential buildings
- Oil, gas, petrochemical, and chemical facilities
- Ports, airports, and transportation hubs
- Data centers and critical infrastructure locations
🌍 Geographic Scope
Field Evaluation Bodies may be required:
- Locally – within cities, industrial zones, or special economic zones
- Nationally – across a country where regulators mandate on-site evaluation
- Internationally – for imported, exported, or globally installed equipment
UKJAS accreditation supports global recognition, enabling FEBs to operate across regions subject to acceptance by local authorities.
🏛️ Regulatory & Jurisdictional Locations
FEBs are required wherever Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) demand independent verification, such as:
- Government inspection departments
- Electrical safety authorities
- Fire and building control authorities
- Environmental and safety regulators
🏢 Organizational Context (UKJAS)
Within UKJAS, Field Evaluation Bodies are required:
- At organizations performing on-site conformity assessments
- Where accreditation under ISO/IEC 17020 or equivalent standards is mandated
- For activities involving field inspection, evaluation, and reporting
✅ Summary
| Aspect | Where FEBs Are Required |
|---|---|
| Physical location | On-site where equipment is installed or operated |
| Industries | Manufacturing, energy, construction, infrastructure |
| Regulatory control | Locations governed by AHJs |
| UKJAS relevance | Accredited FEBs operate at client or project sites |
How is Required Field Evaluation Bodies
🔧 How Field Evaluation Bodies Are Established (UKJAS Perspective)
To function as a Required Field Evaluation Body, an organization must:
- Obtain UKJAS accreditation
– Demonstrate compliance with applicable standards (commonly ISO/IEC 17020). - Define scope of field evaluation
– Specify equipment types, industries, and technical standards covered. - Ensure technical competence
– Employ qualified, experienced, and authorized evaluators. - Maintain independence and impartiality
– Avoid conflicts of interest in evaluations. - Implement documented procedures
– Standardized methods for inspection, evaluation, reporting, and decision-making.
🛠️ How Field Evaluations Are Performed
Accredited FEBs conduct evaluations through the following steps:
- Application / Request
– Client or authority requests a field evaluation. - Document Review
– Design drawings, manuals, risk assessments, and standards are reviewed. - On-Site Inspection
– Physical examination of installed or modified equipment. - Functional & Safety Checks
– Verification against applicable codes and technical requirements. - Nonconformity Identification
– Deviations are recorded and corrective actions recommended. - Verification of Corrections
– Re-evaluation after corrective actions (if required). - Field Evaluation Report Issuance
– Formal report accepted by regulators or clients.
🏛️ How UKJAS Ensures Credibility
UKJAS ensures reliability of Required Field Evaluation Bodies by:
- Conducting initial assessments and surveillance audits
- Evaluating technical competence and impartiality
- Reviewing records, reports, and evaluator qualifications
- Ensuring traceability to recognized standards
📑 Applicable Standard
Most Field Evaluation Bodies under UKJAS are accredited in line with:
- ISO/IEC 17020 – Conformity assessment for inspection bodies
Additional technical codes may apply depending on industry and scope.
✅ Summary
| Aspect | How It Works |
|---|---|
| Accreditation | UKJAS accredits FEBs under ISO/IEC 17020 |
| Evaluation Method | On-site inspection and conformity assessment |
| Process | Request → Review → Inspection → Reporting |
| Outcome | Accepted field evaluation report |
| Confidence | Independent, competent, and impartial assessment |
Case Study on Field Evaluation Bodies
📌 Title
UKJAS-Accredited Field Evaluation Body Supporting Safe Commissioning of Customized Industrial Equipment
🔍 Background
A large manufacturing facility installed a custom-built electrical control panel for a critical production line. The equipment was designed in-house and modified during installation to suit site-specific operational needs.
However, the panel did not carry third-party product certification, and the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) refused permission to energize the system without independent conformity verification.
⚠️ Challenge
The organization faced multiple challenges:
- No applicable standard product certification
- Equipment was already installed and integrated
- Laboratory testing was not feasible due to size and location
- Project delay risks and potential financial losses
- Mandatory requirement for independent, competent field evaluation
🛠️ Solution: Role of a UKJAS-Accredited Field Evaluation Body
A UKJAS-accredited Field Evaluation Body (FEB) was engaged to conduct an on-site conformity assessment under its accredited scope aligned with ISO/IEC 17020.
The FEB performed the following actions:
- Technical Documentation Review
- Electrical drawings, component datasheets, risk assessments, and operating manuals
- On-Site Field Evaluation
- Physical inspection of wiring, protection devices, grounding, labeling, and accessibility
- Functional & Safety Testing
- Verification of emergency stops, overload protection, insulation integrity, and fault protection
- Compliance Assessment
- Evaluation against applicable electrical safety codes and industry standards
- Nonconformity Identification
- Minor deviations related to labeling and earthing continuity
- Corrective Action Verification
- Follow-up inspection confirming corrective actions were implemented
- Field Evaluation Report Issuance
- Issued a formal, traceable evaluation report accepted by the AHJ
✅ Outcome
- Equipment approved for safe energization
- Regulatory clearance obtained without re-manufacturing
- Project delays minimized
- Improved confidence in equipment safety
- Demonstrated value of UKJAS accreditation to regulators and clients
🏭 Key Benefits Observed
| Aspect | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Regulatory Acceptance | AHJ accepted the FEB report |
| Risk Reduction | Safety hazards identified and mitigated |
| Cost Efficiency | Avoided dismantling or redesign |
| Compliance Assurance | Independent, impartial evaluation |
| Credibility | UKJAS accreditation ensured trust |
🏛️ UKJAS Value Addition
UKJAS accreditation ensured that the Field Evaluation Body:
- Operated with technical competence
- Maintained impartiality and independence
- Followed documented and standardized procedures
- Delivered reliable and internationally aligned conformity assessments
🧠 Conclusion
This case study highlights how UKJAS-accredited Field Evaluation Bodies play a critical role in enabling safe, compliant, and timely approval of non-certified or customized equipment. Field evaluations provide a practical and trusted alternative when traditional certification routes are unavailable.
White paper on Field Evaluation Bodies
Ensuring On-Site Compliance and Safety
Published by UKJAS
1. Executive Summary
In industries where equipment, products, and systems are custom-built, modified, or installed on-site, traditional certification or laboratory testing may not provide sufficient assurance of compliance. Field Evaluation Bodies (FEBs) offer on-site, impartial, and accredited evaluations, ensuring safety, regulatory compliance, and operational reliability.
Accredited FEBs play a critical role in reducing risk, improving operational efficiency, and enabling regulatory approvals, particularly in sectors such as industrial manufacturing, energy, construction, and infrastructure.
2. Introduction to Field Evaluation Bodies
Field Evaluation Bodies are specialized organizations that:
- Conduct on-site inspections and evaluations
- Assess compliance with applicable codes, standards, and regulations
- Provide independent reports accepted by Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs)
FEBs are essential when:
- Equipment is non-certified, custom-built, or modified
- Laboratory testing is not feasible due to size, location, or operational constraints
- Regulatory authorities require independent verification before commissioning
3. Accreditation of Field Evaluation Bodies
UKJAS accredits FEBs to ensure competence, impartiality, and credibility. Accreditation typically aligns with:
- ISO/IEC 17020 – Conformity assessment for inspection bodies
- Applicable national and international technical codes
Accredited FEBs must demonstrate:
- Technical expertise and qualified personnel
- Standardized, documented evaluation procedures
- Independence and impartiality
- Traceable reporting and compliance with recognized codes
4. Industrial Applications
Field Evaluation Bodies are required in sectors such as:
| Industry | Application |
|---|---|
| Electrical & Electronic Equipment | Evaluation of custom panels, switchgear, and electrical installations |
| Energy & Power Systems | On-site inspection of substations, renewable energy systems, and generators |
| Construction & Infrastructure | Safety verification of building systems, elevators, and fire protection systems |
| Industrial Machinery & Automation | Assessment of machinery retrofits or custom-built equipment |
| Oil, Gas, & Petrochemical | Field evaluations of pressure vessels, piping, and process equipment |
5. Process of Field Evaluation
The typical field evaluation process includes:
- Application / Request – Client or AHJ requests evaluation
- Document Review – Drawings, manuals, and risk assessments are examined
- On-Site Inspection – Physical inspection of installed or modified equipment
- Functional & Safety Testing – Verification against codes and safety standards
- Nonconformity Identification – Reporting deviations and recommending corrective actions
- Verification – Reassessment after corrections (if required)
- Field Evaluation Report Issuance – Final report for regulatory approval
6. Benefits of Using Accredited FEBs
- Regulatory Confidence – Reports are accepted by AHJs
- Risk Mitigation – Identify safety hazards before commissioning
- Cost Efficiency – Avoid costly rework or delays
- Compliance Assurance – Independent, impartial evaluation
- Global Credibility – UKJAS accreditation provides international recognition
7. Case Study Highlight
A manufacturing facility installed a custom-built electrical control panel. The panel lacked standard certification, and the AHJ required proof of safety before energization.
A UKJAS-accredited FEB conducted an on-site evaluation, identified minor nonconformities, verified corrective actions, and issued a formal report accepted by the AHJ.
Outcome: Equipment approved for operation, project delays minimized, and regulatory compliance achieved.
8. Conclusion
Field Evaluation Bodies are vital for ensuring safety, compliance, and operational reliability in cases where traditional certification is not feasible. UKJAS-accredited FEBs provide confidence to regulators, clients, and project stakeholders by combining technical expertise, impartial evaluation, and internationally recognized accreditation standards.
Accredited FEBs bridge the gap between custom equipment and regulatory compliance, reducing risk and enabling smooth project execution.
Industrial Application of Field Evaluation Bodies
Field Evaluation Bodies (FEBs) play a critical role in assessing compliance, safety, and performance of equipment or systems directly at the installation site, particularly when standard product certification or lab testing is not feasible. Their applications span multiple industrial sectors, ensuring operational safety, regulatory approval, and risk mitigation.
1. Electrical & Electronic Equipment
- Application: Evaluation of custom-built electrical panels, switchgear, transformers, and control systems.
- Use Case: Ensures that modifications, retrofits, or unique installations comply with electrical safety codes before energization.
- Benefit: Prevents electrical hazards and ensures regulatory acceptance by Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs).
2. Energy & Power Systems
- Application: On-site assessment of power generation systems, substations, and renewable energy installations (solar, wind, hydro).
- Use Case: Verifies conformity of custom energy equipment or modifications to existing infrastructure.
- Benefit: Guarantees operational reliability and safety in high-risk environments.
3. Construction & Infrastructure
- Application: Field evaluation of building systems, elevators, fire protection equipment, and HVAC installations.
- Use Case: Confirms compliance with building codes and safety standards for new construction or retrofits.
- Benefit: Facilitates regulatory approvals and ensures occupant safety.
4. Industrial Machinery & Automation
- Application: Assessment of heavy machinery, conveyor systems, robotic installations, and custom automation solutions.
- Use Case: Ensures machinery modifications, site-specific configurations, or imported equipment meet operational and safety requirements.
- Benefit: Minimizes downtime, reduces operational risk, and prevents accidents.
5. Oil, Gas & Petrochemical Facilities
- Application: Field inspection of pressure vessels, piping systems, pumps, and process equipment.
- Use Case: Verifies compliance with safety codes and process standards for hazardous environments.
- Benefit: Avoids costly shutdowns, ensures safety, and meets regulatory compliance.
6. Other Critical Industries
- Transportation: Evaluation of equipment at ports, airports, and rail systems.
- Data Centers: Verification of power, cooling, and safety systems.
- Healthcare & Laboratories: On-site evaluation of specialized medical or laboratory equipment.
Why FEBs Are Essential in Industrial Applications
- On-Site Assessment: Evaluates equipment in actual operating conditions.
- Regulatory Acceptance: AHJs and authorities trust reports from accredited FEBs.
- Risk Reduction: Identifies safety or compliance issues before commissioning.
- Cost Efficiency: Avoids unnecessary dismantling or re-testing in labs.
- Custom & Imported Equipment: Provides a practical solution when standard certification is unavailable.
UKJAS Role
UKJAS accredits Field Evaluation Bodies to ensure they:
- Follow ISO/IEC 17020 and industry-specific standards
- Maintain technical competence and impartiality
- Deliver traceable and reliable field evaluation reports
This ensures that industrial stakeholders, regulators, and clients have confidence in the evaluation results.
✅ Summary Table
| Industry | FEB Application | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical & Electronics | Custom panels, switchgear | Safety & AHJ approval |
| Energy & Power | Substations, renewable systems | Operational reliability |
| Construction | Fire, HVAC, elevators | Regulatory compliance |
| Industrial Machinery | Automation, heavy machinery | Reduced downtime & accidents |
| Oil & Gas | Pressure vessels, piping | Hazard mitigation & safety |
| Transport & Data Centers | Critical systems | Operational continuity |
This shows how UKJAS-accredited Field Evaluation Bodies are integral to ensuring compliance, safety, and operational efficiency across industries.