When can inspection of fabricators be waived?

The correct answer is that inspection of fabricators can be waived when the fabricator is approved by the building official. This recognition typically comes from the building official reviewing the fabricator’s qualifications, adherence to applicable codes, and past performance records. When a fabricator receives this approval, it suggests that they meet the necessary standards and requirements set by the governing jurisdiction, which can justify the waiver of inspection.

In many jurisdictions, the process for such approval includes a thorough evaluation of the fabricator’s capabilities and previous work, contributing to a general confidence in their operation. This can streamline processes for projects, as the inspector may rely on the building official's established approval to determine that ongoing inspections are not required.

Other options present scenarios that do not inherently justify waiving inspections. For example, simply being in a different state does not assure quality or compliance with local regulations. Similarly, the relationship between a fabricator and contractor doesn’t guarantee that the work meets project requirements or standards necessary for safety. Lastly, while decisions by a special inspection agency may hold weight, any waiver typically would still require underlying approval from the building official rather than being solely based on the agency's discretion.