Who utilizes the evaluation report as evidence for product approval?

The evaluation report serves as a crucial document that outlines the compliance of a product with code requirements and other relevant standards. Building officials utilize these reports as a definitive source of evidence when assessing whether a particular product can be approved for use in construction projects. This is because building officials are responsible for ensuring that all materials and systems used in construction meet safety, performance, and regulatory standards.

The evaluation report provides detailed technical information about a product, including its intended use, performance attributes, and relevant test results. This enables building officials to make informed decisions based on established criteria, leading to the intended safety and performance of the constructed building.

In contrast, while contractors, owners, and special inspectors may reference or be informed by the evaluation report, they do not have the same role in the approval process as the building official. The contractor focuses on the execution of the construction, the owner is concerned with project outcomes and investments, and the special inspector oversees specific areas for compliance but does not have the authority to approve products. Thus, the building official's role is central in utilizing the evaluation report for product approval.