1.1 This specification defines the minimum requirements for inspection agency personnel or testing agencies engaged in:
a. Construction inspection of construction and materials used in construction,
b. Special Inspection, and
c. Testing of construction and materials used in construction.

1.2 Criteria are provided for evaluating the competence of an agency to properly perform designated tests, inspections, or Special Inspection services. This specification establishes essential characteristics pertaining to the organization, management, personnel, facilities, quality systems, responsibilities, duties, test and inspection methods, records, and reports of the agency. This specification may be supplemented by more specific criteria and requirements if required.

1.2.1 This specification specifically addresses factors relevant to an agency’s ability to produce precise, accurate test data or determine the conformity of construction and materials used in construction with regulations, codes, standards, or specifications containing the requirements against which the test or inspection will be performed, or both. Specific or general requirements include:

1.2.1.1 Technical competency of personnel,

1.2.1.2 Validity and appropriateness of test and inspection methods and procedures,

1.2.1.3 Traceability of measurements and calibrations to national standards,

1.2.1.4 Suitability, calibration, and maintenance of test equipment,

1.2.1.5 Sampling, handling, and transportation of test items,

1.2.1.6 Quality assurance of test and inspection data,

1.2.1.7 Reporting of test and inspection data or findings, and

1.2.1.8 Non Conformance Report (NCR) management and records.

1.3 This specification can be used as a basis to assess an agency and is intended for use in accrediting agencies, public or private, engaged in construction inspection. Special Inspection or testing of construction and materials used in construction. These inspection services include but are not limited to reinforced concrete, precast concrete, structural steel erection, welding, bolting, soil and rock, foundations, masonry, sprayed fire-resistive materials, fire stops, exterior insulation and finish system (EIFS), and Special Cases. Building officials can use Specification E329 as a tool in the qualification and establishment of competency of construction inspection, Special Inspection, and testing agencies in the fields covered by Specification E329.

1.4 A certificate of accreditation, including the scope of accreditation, is required to comply with this specification.

1.5 The users of an accredited agency must review the agency's scope of accreditation to ensure the agency has been accredited for its technical competence to perform the specific tests or inspections requested by the user.