OSHPD "OPA"
Obtaining an OPA is an “extra step” whereby the structural attachment or equipment anchorage is actually approved by OSHPD and given an approval or OPA number. This “extra step” is not a requirement by the California Building Code or OSHPD, only a recommendation. However, due to the nature of installations and the number of different parties involved, pre-approval has become a way of expediting the installation and permit process. The greatest value to pre-approval is as a marketing tool. Many Hospitals prefer equipment with an OPA-number, which then leads to architectural firms requesting them. Having an OPA-number then becomes a way of bypassing an initial disqualification by a hospital
To see a full list of the pre-approvals visit http://www.oshpd.ca.gov/FDD/Pre-Approval/.
Schools (under the jurisdiction of the Division of the State Architect (DSA))
also recognize pre-approvals.
OSHPD "OSP"
Special
Seismic Certification is a process that came with the 2007 California Building
Code and states your equipment will remain functional after a seismic event.
The only way to get this certification is by placing your unit on a shake
table that simulates an earthquake. If after the shaking, your unit still
functions, it passed. Certification is obtained upon completion of a detailed
report that is reviewed and accepted by a licensed California Structural Engineer.
An OSP is an “extra step” whereby OSHPD reviews the report and
approves the certification. This “extra step” is not a requirement
by the California Building Code or OSHPD but having an OSP number is a valuable
tool in proving that your unit is certified.
To see a full list of the pre-approvals visit http://www.oshpd.ca.gov/FDD/Pre-Approval/.
OSHPD also