Answer 1

The factory acceptance testing is a demonstration, at the vendor’s works place, that the operation and performances of plant or equipment meets its design criteria. The FAT is performed in the presence of project representatives and includes previously agreed acceptance criteria. The FAT’s scope and criteria for testing should be developed to minimize post-installation re-test and commissioning on site. As part of the FAT process the package engineer or designated inspector should prepare an outstanding items list if relevant.

The outstanding items list should identify all outstanding works as the package leaves the vendors’ facility and which party is responsible for completing the scope. When delivered on site the outstanding items list should be transferred to the project actions list in order to ensure continuity in the tracking of works to be done. Requirement and responsibility for vendor inspection and FAT attendance are usually identified in the owner company standard of supplier inspection and testing plan.

Answer 2

Great description. Here is an additional information, Performance Testing, that should take place prior to FAT. Performance Testing of equipment is normally performed at equipment supplier premises before FAT, where the test results are assessed against the design requirements. Whenever possible, commissioning should take advantage of the work performed during factory performance testing. In view of achieving this, performance tests should be formatted and reported in a similar format.