Agree, with it all, except I signed the VN - right after it was cleared
up
with the UL engineer. The inspector was correct that it didn't match the
descriptive file, it was also the case that it didn't matter from a hazard
perspective, and to avoid the problem in the future we did need to update the
file. All of these things were handled in the same telephone conversation and
everyone was happy. The inspectors paper work, was complete, UL understood the
problem, UL updated the file within in a couple of weeks, and the next the
inspector got there the product and the file correctly matched each other.
Self audits get a little more difficult when the manufacturer is many
hundreds of miles away, but I usually try to make at least an annual trip to
audit. If nothing else it makes the CM take note that I am paying attention,
and that following drawings and component sourcing is important.
An small anecdote- about a custom build transformer from years ago.
1) Do not let helpful employee's hang around during the inspection.
During an inspection it was found that the transformer external leads
were
not surface marked, as the report required. It was our fault for not
inspecting diligently. The transformers and the wire were both manufactured by
the same vendor and they forgot a step. When the inspector put a production
halt on the equipment do the discrepancy our every helpful manufacturing folks
took umbrage, saying "that's ridiculous" that transformer is used in three
other products" Very helpful, now I had four rather than 1 product on ship hold
2)In an odd but fortuitous coincidence it turns out that the transformer
manufacturer was owned by the father of the UL engineer who investigated our
project. Whether it should have been that quick or not, the UL engineer, was
able to confirm the wire got the ship hold released, and the process from the
manufacturer fixed real quick.
Another moral to this story, is that you may have to guide the incoming
inspection folks on what you as a safety professional need identified on parts
if its important. The inspection guys, did a number of things; they checked
the part number, they checked the lead lengths, and if I remember correctly
they even ran some performance checks. But the marking on the wire wasn't
specifically called out - so they didn't check that.
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