Remote Special Inspection Program

A new format for the special inspection program evaluations.
Published on June 10, 2026
in Building , Building code , Compliance , Construction

DSA is pleased to announce a change in format for Special Inspection Program (SIP) evaluations. Effective July 1, 2026, remote assessments (audits) will be offered for SIP evaluations. This change in format offers greater flexibility because remote SIP evaluations can be completed at any time, rather than solely at the time of onsite lab assessments by accrediting bodies.

Assessment Scope

The SIP evaluation applies to laboratories performing the following Special Inspection (SI) and Structural Testing (ST) disciplines for DSA’s Laboratory Evaluation and Acceptance (LEA) Program: 

  • Batch Plant (SI)
  • Reinforced Concrete (SI)
  • High-Strength Bolting (SI)
  • Shotcrete (SI)
  • Nondestructive Testing (ST)
  • Soil and Earthwork (SI)
  • Post-Installed Anchors (SI)
  • Spray Applied Fireproofing (SI)
  • Post-Installed Anchors (ST)
  • Structural Masonry (SI)
  • Prestressed Concrete (SI)
  • Structural Welding (SI)

 Once the SIP evaluation is scheduled, the laboratory will be provided with instructions detailing the documentation being requested, process for providing the information, time frame for its review, and method for completing corrective actions. With the new remote format, the evaluations will rely on required documentation being uploaded to DSAbox, rather than provided to assessors while on site. Participating laboratories will receive a summary report at the conclusion of the SIP evaluation identifying findings and observations. All responses and corrective actions related to the SIP assessment will continue to be submitted directly to DSA for review and acceptance. 

Successful completion of the SIP evaluation is required to maintain LEA Program acceptance for performance of Special Inspection (SI) and Structural Testing (ST) work. Furthermore, DSA will continue to perform site evaluations, in accordance with the California Administrative Code, in part to verify information submitted remotely during the evaluation.  

SIP evaluations may be performed by AASHTO re:source. Please refer to the AASHTO re:source webpage for additional information. Other nationally recognized evaluation services or accreditation bodies may also perform SIP evaluations if such entities are deemed equivalent by DSA.

More information about the SIP Program can be found at DSA’s Laboratory & Acceptance webpage. 

Please forward questions regarding the SIP evaluation process to DSALEAProgram@dgs.ca.gov or reach out directly to the LEA Program at (916) 445 2193.