An engineering seal is a mark or electronic authentication an engineer uses to identify documents for which they take professional responsibility under applicable rules.
Definition
An engineering seal is a physical mark or electronic authentication associated with a licensed engineer and specified engineering documents. Jurisdictional rules determine which documents require a seal, who may apply it, and what the act signifies. A seal can identify the professional taking responsibility for work, but the required review and involvement depend on the circumstances and applicable rules. Owners use procedures for controlling seals, electronic credentials, and document releases so that only authorized professionals authenticate documents in the proper context. Requirements and exceptions can vary by jurisdiction, document type, and project. A seal is not a substitute for engineering review, responsible charge, or a firm's quality process. It also does not by itself establish that every aspect of a project complies with every code, permit, or contract requirement. The applicable board rules govern its use.
How owners use it
- Set access controls and release procedures for physical seals and electronic authentication credentials.
- Check jurisdictional requirements for which documents require authentication and who may apply it.
- For a three-sheet package requiring authentication, the assigned licensed engineer reviews all 3 sheets before applying the seal, consistent with applicable requirements.
- Keep records linking authenticated documents to the responsible professional and project revision.
