Who administers the special inspection program?

The special inspection program is primarily administered by the building department. The building department is responsible for ensuring that construction complies with applicable codes, standards, and regulations. This includes oversight of special inspections, which are critical for verifying that certain components of construction are built according to approved plans and specifications.

The building department establishes the framework for the special inspection program, setting guidelines and requirements for what inspections are necessary, who conducts them, and how they are reported. It ensures that there is a systematic approach in place for monitoring construction activities that require special inspections, such as soil tests, concrete placement, or welding processes.

The other roles, such as the special inspection agency, special inspector, or registered design professional (RDP), play supportive or execution roles in the process. For instance, the special inspector carries out the inspections on the ground, and the special inspection agency typically employs these inspectors to ensure compliance. Meanwhile, the RDP may provide the designs that dictate the standards for inspection but does not administer the program itself. Understanding these distinctions highlights the building department's vital role in administering the special inspection program, ensuring safety and adherence to regulatory standards in construction.