Questions have arisen as to who is responsible for the design of fire protection sprinkler systems. The Board position is that the design of fire protection sprinkler systems requires the application of applied engineering sciences and therefore is the practice of professional engineering. Similarly, the design of electrical and plumbing systems involves the practice of professional engineering with the application of applied engineering sciences, so the design must be prepared and certified by a licensed professional electrical or mechanical engineer, respectively for other than exempted buildings. The issue of performance specifications is of concern to the Board. Performance specifications require shop drawings.
Shop drawings show fabrication methods.
Shop drawings do not include original design. The licensed design professional whose professional skill and judgement are embodied in the work product must certify that document. If the work of two or more licensed design professionals is shown on one sheet, each must certify that sheet. If liability insurance companies require certification by a firm principal, the principal MAY ALSO certify the sheets requiring certification. The design services of licensed architects and professional engineers are required for any non-exempt building to be built.