Perf-Based Stds, Adult Corr. Inst. 5th ed March 2020

Appendix C

Definition of “Qualified Individual” for Safety and Sanitation Inspections Several standards refer to documentation and inspections by “qualified individuals.” (For example, Building and Safety Codes, Fire Safety, Food Service, Sanitation and Hygiene, and Work and Correctional Industries standards.) Such persons also may be referred to as “independent, qualified source,” “qualified departmental staff member,” “qualified designee,” or “qualified fire and safety officer.”

A “qualified individual” is a person whose training, education, and/or experience specifically qualifies him or her to do the job indicated in the standard.

I. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

When a standard calls for inspections, the individual conducting them needs to be trained in the applica- tion of appropriate codes and regulations. Standards do not specify the number of hours of training required, as this is determined in part by the tasks assigned. At a minimum, though, the qualified individual must (1) be familiar with the applicable codes and regulations and their requirements; (2) be able to use the appro- priate instruments for measuring and documenting code compliance; (3) be able to complete checklists and prepare the necessary reports; and (4) have the authority to make corrections when deficiencies are found. Training is often obtained from code officials or inspectors (fire marshals, building officials); govern- ment agencies that have statutory authority for inspections in a particular area (health department, labor department); or private organizations, such as the National Fire Protection Association. Often the individ- ual obtains written certification or approval from these authorities to conduct in-house inspections. When trained and certified by the above sources to do so, a central office specialist may train and assist facility staff to conduct inspections.

II. SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

A. Authority Having Jurisdiction

The term “authority having jurisdiction” is defined as follows:

The authority having jurisdiction must be knowledgeable about the requirements of the National Fire Protection Life Safety Code. The authority having jurisdiction may be a federal, state, local, or other regional department or individual, such as the fire chief, fire marshal, chief of a fire prevention bureau, labor department, health department, building official, electrical inspector, or others with statutory authority. The authority having jurisdiction may be employed by the department/agency, provided that he or she is not under the authority of the facility administrator and that the report

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