Role of inspection authorities

The system's hierarchy, starting with installation codes, then covering standards development organizations, manufacturers, certifiers and users, has one final, important element--the HazLoc inspection authority. The role of the inspection authority can be summarized as follows:

• The HazLoc inspection authorities are responsible for the key step of verifying and authorizing the use of suitably designed and installed HazLoc equipment in the end application.
• Individual HazLoc inspection authorities and representatives from organizations/associations of HazLoc inspection authorities serve as members of the technical committees charged with the development and maintenance of these HazLoc Codes and equipment requirements.

• Additional representatives from the HazLoc inspection community are also able to impact these Codes and equipment requirements as part of requests for general industry comments that are part of the development and maintenance process.

Within the North American HazLoc system, there are a large number of inspection authorities--with many of these inspection authorities maintaining an association with organizations that provide a range of assistance. The following are some examples of such organizations/associations:

• International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI) - A not-for-profit, educational organization for electrical inspectors and others involved in installation and use of electricity. Encourages electrical safety by bringing together inspectors, utilities, insurance groups, dealers, contractors, electricians, manufacturers, and testing laboratories to promote safe installation and use of electrical systems and products. Note: Regulatory jurisdiction is on-shore workplaces. Inspection requirements are according to local installation codes.
• Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) - An administration of the U.S. federal government comprising inspectors, as well as complaint discrimination investigators, engineers, physicians, educators, standards writers, and other technical and support staff responsible for establishing protective standards, enforcing those standards, and reaching out to employers and employees through technical assistance and consultation programs. Note: Regulatory jurisdiction is on-shore workplaces. Inspection requirements are according to U.S. Code of Federal Regulations, 29 CFR Part 1910.307.
• Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) - An administration of the U.S. federal government responsible for carrying out the mandates of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 (Mine Act) at all mining and mineral processing operations in the United States, regardless of size, number of employees, commodity mined, or method of extraction. Note: Regulatory jurisdiction is surface and underground mines, as noted above. Inspection requirements are according to U.S. Code of Federal Regulations, 30 CFR, Mineral Resources, Parts 1 to 199.
• United States Coast Guard (USCG) - A military, multi-mission, maritime service organization under the U.S. federal government (U.S. Department of Transportation) that addresses U.S. safety, protection of natural resources, mobility, maritime security, and national defense - including the promotion of safety through regulatory, inspection, and education roles. Note: Regulatory jurisdiction is offshore workplaces as noted above. Inspection requirements are according to U.S. Code of Federal Regulations, 46 CFR, Shipping, Subpart 111.105.