Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)

DOE-HDBK-1092-2004

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AUTHORITY HAVING JURISDICTION (AHJ)

In states and municipalities, an official (electrical inspector, engineer, or equivalent qualified

individual) is usually designated as the electrical Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). The AHJ

should possess such executive ability as is required for performance of the position, and should

have thorough knowledge of standard materials and work practices used in the installation,

operation, construction, and maintenance of electrical equipment. The AHJ should, through

experience or education, be knowledgeable of the requirements contained in the OSHA

standards, the National Electrical Code, the National Electrical Safety Code, DOE requirements,

and other appropriate local, state, and national standards. The AHJ should be responsible to

interpret codes, regulations and standards, and approve equipment, assemblies, or materials. If

the AHJ needs to address items outside his or her electrical expertise, such as fire, confined

space, fall protection, or like issues, the AHJ should consult with cognizant experts before a

decision is reached. The AHJ may permit alternate methods where it is assured that equivalent

objectives can be achieved by establishing and maintaining effective safety equal to or

exceeding established codes, regulations, and standards.

In DOE, levels of authority exist that serve the function of the AHJ. The AHJ may be the

contracting officer, such as an area manager. This person may choose to delegate authority to

an individual or organization within his or her control. It is acceptable for DOE sites to delegate

authority to a committee of subject matter experts. The authority may reside with a safety or

facilities department. The field office manager or designated representative may act as a higher

level of authority. The authority may begin with an electrician and proceed through various

levels of supervision to management (as shown in Fig. 1-1).

Fig. 1-1.

NOTE: The titles in Fig. 1-1 will vary from site to site.

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