Evaluation reports comprise a summary of technical information, test data, rational analysis and installation requirements to convey the performance of a product or system in a format that is conducive to understanding by the intended audience. NEMO ETC offers Evaluation Services to building product manufacturers for a variety of purposes and intended audiences.
EVALUATE
''To determine the significance, worth, condition or performance of by careful appraisal and study.''
WHAT WE DO
TOP REQUESTS
- Evaluate products/systems for compliance with the Building Code.
- Evaluate a series of test data to determine what is missing to meet my compliance objectives.
- Evaluate the performance of one product against a competitive product.
CREDENTIALS
While there are no ISO/IEC standards established specifically for the accreditation of evaluation entities, there are several recognized entities in North America which utilize ISO/IEC 17020 (Inspection Entity) combined with ISO/IEC 17065 (Certification Entity) as the basis for their recognition. Evaluation, by default, generally includes rational analysis while Certification, by definition, may not involve rational analysis.
Florida Administrative Code 61G20-3 sets forth allowable methods for Code compliance documentation within the State of Florida. One method is evaluation by a Florida Registered Professional Engineer.
Robert Nieminen, P.E. currently maintains over 200 Florida Evaluation Reports published at the Building Code Information System.
With over 100 years combined experience in testing and evaluation of roof and wall cladding systems, the staff at NEMO ETC are fully prepared to evaluate your building products to any Building Code or requirement.
OUR PROCESS
How We Get You There
1
Objectives
Discuss scope of Evaluation Report, including product(s) to be evaluated and targeted Code(s) or requirement(s).
2
Scope
NEMO ETC drafts the initial Services Agreement or Scope of Work for approval by both parties.
3
Document Submission
Client submits the following for initial review: Published Product Data Sheets, Laboratory Test Reports, Quality Assurance Documentation.
4
Preliminary Findings
Client receives list of item(s) missing in support of evaluation objectives (if applicable).
5
Draft Approval
Client review and approval of draft Evaluation Report.
6
Final Report
Client receives final Evaluation Report.
7
Notice
Client receives notice of submittal to Code authority (if NEMO is retained for that service).
8
Maintenance
Client makes revisions as required with new data or Code updates and/or NEMO ETC makes revisions under annual maintenance agreement.
Test Results - Evaluation Reports
FAQ’s
Am I required to have an Evaluation Report from NEMO or any other evaluation entity to market my products?
No, though it certainly makes acceptance easier for the sales force and permitting easier for contractors. Each building department within each jurisdiction has their own procedures for acceptance of building products and systems. Evaluation Reports provide building officials with a user-friendly summary of applicable sections of the applicable Building Code, along with the means/methods by which a given product or system meets those minimum requirements. Some jurisdictions require Evaluation Reports from specific Evaluation Bodies, while others accept multiple methods of compliance documentation.
If there is no standardized, codified specification that applies to my product, does that mean the product cannot be evaluated?
No. To the contrary, this is a primary function of Evaluation Reports. All model Building Codes have a section therein which states that the Code is not intended to preclude the use of non-standardized materials or systems. Typically the Code section is 104.11 (for Codes that use the IBC as the parent-Code). In these cases, the proponent must show compliance with the “intent of the Code”, and an Evaluation Report is an ideal medium to do so.
Can NEMO ETC prepare an Evaluation Report acceptable for use in FBC High Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ)?
Yes. FBC HVHZ is nothing more than a sub-Code within the Florida Building Code, which is specific to Miami-Dade and Broward Counties.
If my product is standardized and codified, can I simply use my Test Report for compliance documentation?
Yes, though it would depend on whether the intended audience (building department, designer of record, etc) accepts test reports as a method of compliance documentation. Moreover, test reports are typically limited to test data and a compliance statement, so submitting same without any type of evaluation can lead to more questions from the building official as to acceptable installation methods and limits of use. This is common when a product or system needs to meet multiple codified standards.
What is the typical turn-around time for Florida Statewide Product Approval using an Evaluation Report by a Florida Professional Engineer?
2 to 4 months.
Do you only accept test data from NEMO ETC test laboratories in support of an Evaluation Report?
No. Data from any ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory is acceptable.
We’re Here to Help You
Our team is looking forward to meeting your highest expectation.