Technical Documentation
Review of available specifications, drawings, datasheets, procedures, manuals, installation records and other technical documentation relevant to the agreed FAT and SAT scope.
PAMS Maritime Technical Article
FAT & SAT Survey & Factory & Site Acceptance Testing
Independent Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) and Site Acceptance Test (SAT) surveying, technical witnessing and evaluation services for marine, offshore and industrial equipment, supporting verification, documentation, technical observations and reporting before delivery, after installation or during commissioning-related activities.
What Are FAT & SAT Surveys?
A Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) is a controlled test normally performed at a manufacturer's, supplier's or designated testing facility before equipment is delivered to its intended installation or operational location.
A Site Acceptance Test (SAT) is normally performed after equipment or systems have been delivered and installed at the intended vessel, shipyard, offshore facility, terminal, industrial site or other designated project location. SAT activities may include functional, operational, interface and integration testing under site-specific conditions.
An independent FAT & SAT Survey provides an additional technical witnessing function. The surveyor attends the agreed testing activities, observes the available test results and demonstrations, records relevant technical observations and prepares an independent report.
Important distinction:
FAT and SAT witnessing are not the same as manufacturing, installation,
commissioning or performing the tests themselves. The manufacturer,
supplier, contractor or designated testing organization remains
responsible for carrying out the applicable tests, while contractual
acceptance, project approval, release and commissioning decisions remain
with the client, purchaser, owner or designated authority.
Why Are FAT & SAT Testing Important?
Equipment or system problems identified after delivery, installation or commissioning can result in additional technical work, delays and project disruption. FAT provides an opportunity to demonstrate and document equipment performance before delivery, while SAT provides an opportunity to verify applicable functionality and system performance after installation under the intended site or project conditions.
Independent witnessing can provide the client with an additional technical record of the testing performed during both factory and site acceptance activities, subject to the agreed scope and available documentation.
Pre-Delivery Verification
FAT provides an opportunity to verify agreed equipment functions and test requirements before delivery to the vessel, shipyard, offshore facility or project location.
Post-Installation Verification
SAT provides an opportunity to verify applicable functions, interfaces and integration after equipment or systems have been installed at the intended project location.
Independent Witnessing
An independent surveyor can observe the agreed FAT and SAT activities and provide a separate technical record of the witnessed testing.
Technical Documentation
FAT and SAT documentation and test records provide useful evidence for project files, equipment history, quality records and subsequent installation, commissioning or operational activities.
FAT & SAT Survey Scope
The scope of independent FAT and SAT witnessing depends on the equipment, client requirements, approved test procedures, applicable specifications, installation status and agreed attendance arrangements.
FAT Procedure
Review of the applicable FAT procedure or test protocol to establish the agreed factory test sequence, test conditions and verification activities.
SAT Procedure
Review of the applicable SAT procedure or test protocol to establish the agreed site testing sequence, functional verification, interfaces and applicable integration activities.
Test Witnessing
Independent attendance during agreed FAT and SAT functional, operational or performance testing performed by the manufacturer, supplier, contractor or designated testing team.
Measurements & Results
Observation and recording of relevant measurements, test results, demonstrations and available technical evidence during the witnessed FAT and SAT activities.
Technical Observations & Reporting
Recording of visible deficiencies, deviations, incomplete activities, abnormal conditions and other relevant technical observations, followed by preparation of an independent report.
Independent FAT & SAT Technical Witnessing
Independent FAT and SAT witnessing provides the client with a technical representative who observes the agreed test activities and documents the results available during the attendance.
FAT witnessing generally takes place before delivery at a manufacturer, supplier or designated testing facility. SAT witnessing generally takes place after installation at the vessel, shipyard, offshore facility, terminal, industrial site or other designated project location.
The surveyor does not replace the manufacturer, supplier, contractor, commissioning team, testing organization or purchaser. Each party retains its responsibilities under the applicable contract, project documentation and technical requirements.
PAMS technical role:
PAMS Pacific Admiralty Maritime Services independently witnesses,
observes and reports FAT and SAT activities within the agreed
technical scope. PAMS does not perform the manufacturer's or
contractor's testing and does not assume contractual acceptance
authority unless a specific written authorization establishes such a
role.
Marine & Offshore FAT & SAT Applications
FAT & SAT Survey and independent technical witnessing can be applied to equipment and systems used in marine, offshore and industrial projects, subject to the equipment-specific test procedures and agreed scope.
Marine Machinery
Factory and site testing of machinery and equipment intended for vessels, shipyards and marine installations may be independently witnessed against agreed technical requirements.
Electrical Equipment
Applicable electrical equipment and systems may be covered where factory and site testing, functional demonstrations and technical verification are included within the agreed scope.
Control Systems
Control, monitoring and automation systems may be witnessed during agreed FAT and SAT functional testing, demonstrations, interface checks and integration activities.
Pumps & Compressors
FAT and SAT activities for pumps, compressors and associated equipment may include observation of operational or performance testing according to the applicable procedures.
Offshore Equipment
Equipment intended for offshore units, FPSO projects, terminals and other offshore facilities may be covered by independent FAT and SAT witnessing according to project requirements.
Integrated Systems
Integrated equipment and systems may be covered where SAT includes functional operation, interfaces, communications, control integration or other site-specific verification.
FAT & SAT Evaluation Testing
FAT and SAT evaluation testing involves assessing the available test evidence against the agreed technical and project requirements. The evaluation should remain within the limits of the approved test procedures, available documentation and the conditions actually witnessed.
Functional Performance
Observation of whether the equipment or system demonstrates the functions specified in the applicable FAT or SAT procedure.
Operational Testing
Observation of operational demonstrations and available test results under the agreed factory or site test conditions.
Test Results
Review and recording of relevant measurements and test results made available during the witnessed FAT or SAT.
Deviations
Documentation of observed deviations from the applicable procedure, specification or agreed FAT/SAT test requirements.
Deficiencies
Recording of relevant deficiencies, incomplete testing, installation matters or other technical observations identified during the attendance.
Re-Test Status
Where requested, subsequent FAT or SAT re-testing may be witnessed to document the observed status following corrective action.
FAT & SAT Survey Methodology
A structured FAT & SAT Survey methodology helps ensure that the independent technical attendance remains focused on the agreed equipment, testing requirements, installation status and reporting objectives.
Scope Definition
Establish the equipment, FAT and SAT locations, client requirements, technical documentation and agreed scope of independent attendance.
Documentation Review
Review available technical specifications, drawings, procedures, test protocols, installation records and other documents relevant to the FAT and SAT.
FAT Attendance
Attend and independently observe the agreed factory testing activities performed by the manufacturer, supplier or designated testing organization.
SAT Attendance
Attend and independently observe the agreed site testing activities following installation, including applicable functional, interface and integration testing.
Observation & Recording
Record relevant test results, observations, deviations, deficiencies, installation matters and other technical issues within the agreed scope.
Technical Report
Prepare an independent technical report documenting the FAT and SAT attendance, witnessed activities, observations and available supporting evidence.
FAT & SAT Documentation & Technical Records
Proper documentation is an important part of Factory and Site Acceptance Testing. The available records should allow the project team to understand what was tested, under which conditions, where the testing took place and what results were observed.
Approved Specifications
Applicable technical specifications and project requirements
used as references for FAT and SAT activities.
Approved Drawings
Relevant approved drawings, schematics, equipment documentation
and installation information associated with the tested item.
FAT & SAT Procedures
Applicable factory and site acceptance test procedures or test
protocols establishing the agreed testing activities.
Test Results
Measurements, test results, functional demonstrations and
performance records made available during the witnessed testing.
Certificates & Records
Relevant certificates, calibration records, installation
records or supporting documentation where included within the
agreed scope.
Survey Report
Independent technical report documenting attendance, witnessed
activities, observations, findings and available evidence.
FAT & SAT Findings, Deviations & Re-Test
FAT and SAT activities may identify conditions requiring clarification, correction, completion or additional testing. Where relevant matters are observed, they can be documented as part of the independent technical record.
Corrective responsibility:
The manufacturer, supplier, contractor or responsible project party
remains responsible for addressing deficiencies and implementing
corrective actions. PAMS independently records the observed status and
does not perform the corrective work.
Technical Deviation
An observed difference between the witnessed condition and the applicable technical requirement or agreed FAT/SAT procedure may be recorded for client review.
Incomplete Activity
FAT or SAT activities that could not be completed or demonstrated may be identified in the technical report.
Corrective Action
Corrective action remains under the responsibility of the manufacturer, supplier, contractor or other designated responsible party.
Follow-Up FAT / SAT
Where requested, PAMS may attend a subsequent FAT or SAT re-test to independently observe the status following corrective action.
FAT, SAT, Installation Testing & Commissioning
Factory Acceptance Testing, Site Acceptance Testing, installation testing and commissioning should be distinguished from one another. Each activity occurs at a different stage of the equipment lifecycle and may have different objectives and responsibilities.
Factory Acceptance Test
Testing performed at the manufacturer or designated facility before equipment is delivered or installed at the final location.
Site Acceptance Test
Testing performed after delivery and installation to verify relevant functions, interfaces and system performance under applicable site-specific conditions.
Installation Testing
Verification associated with installation, connections, integration and physical arrangement of equipment at the intended location.
Commissioning
Activities undertaken to place equipment or systems into operational service following installation and applicable testing.
Benefits of Independent FAT & SAT Survey
Independent FAT and SAT witnessing can provide owners, purchasers, technical managers and project stakeholders with additional technical information before equipment leaves the manufacturer's facility and after installation at the intended project location.
- Independent observation of agreed factory and site testing activities.
- Technical documentation of witnessed FAT and SAT test results.
- Identification and recording of observed deficiencies or deviations.
- Additional technical evidence for project records.
- Support for equipment delivery, installation and commissioning planning.
- Potential follow-up witnessing of agreed FAT or SAT re-testing activities.
- Independent technical reporting for client and project use.
FAT & SAT Acceptance & Technical Responsibility
FAT and SAT results are normally assessed against the agreed technical requirements and acceptance criteria established by the client, purchaser, project or applicable contractual documentation.
An independent surveyor's report documents the activities witnessed and observations made. It does not automatically constitute contractual acceptance, certification, class approval, statutory approval or commissioning authorization.
Acceptance authority:
Final contractual acceptance, release for shipment, project approval,
commissioning authorization and commercial decisions remain with the
party holding the relevant contractual or project authority.
FAT & SAT Evaluation Framework
The technical evaluation of FAT and SAT activities should be based on the agreed documentation and the actual test conditions witnessed. Relevant limitations should be clearly identified in the technical report.
Equipment Identification
Confirmation of the equipment or system subject to the FAT or
SAT attendance and available identification information.
Test Requirements
Reference to the applicable technical requirements, procedures
and agreed FAT/SAT test criteria.
Witnessed Activities
Documentation of the FAT and SAT activities actually witnessed
during the survey attendance.
Available Results
Recording of relevant measurements, demonstrations and test
results made available during the FAT or SAT.
Observations
Documentation of deficiencies, deviations, incomplete
activities, installation matters or other relevant technical
observations.
Limitations
Identification of limitations affecting the extent or
conclusiveness of the independent technical observation.
FAT & SAT Survey Resources
Explore the related PAMS FAT & SAT Survey service, case study and project pages for additional technical information and project references.
FAT & SAT Survey & Acceptance Testing FAQ
What is a Factory Acceptance Test?
A Factory Acceptance Test is a controlled test normally performed at a manufacturer's, supplier's or designated testing facility to demonstrate agreed equipment functions and performance before delivery or installation.
What is a Site Acceptance Test?
A Site Acceptance Test is normally performed after equipment or systems have been delivered and installed at the designated vessel, shipyard, offshore facility, terminal, industrial site or other project location to verify applicable functionality, interfaces, integration and site-specific requirements.
What is a FAT & SAT Survey?
A FAT & SAT Survey is an independent technical witnessing and reporting activity covering agreed Factory Acceptance Test and/or Site Acceptance Test activities.
What is the difference between FAT and SAT?
FAT is generally performed before delivery at the manufacturer or designated testing facility, while SAT is generally performed after installation at the intended site or operational location. FAT focuses on equipment verification before delivery, while SAT can include installed functionality, interfaces, integration and site-specific verification.
Who performs the FAT and SAT?
The manufacturer, supplier, contractor, commissioning team or designated testing organization normally performs the FAT or SAT in accordance with the applicable procedures and project requirements.
Does PAMS perform the FAT or SAT?
PAMS independently witnesses, observes and reports the agreed FAT and SAT activities. The manufacturer, supplier, contractor or designated testing organization remains responsible for performing the actual tests.
Does PAMS accept the equipment?
PAMS does not automatically accept equipment or systems. Contractual acceptance, release for shipment, commissioning authorization and project approval remain with the client, purchaser, owner or designated authority unless a specific written authorization establishes otherwise.
What documentation is reviewed during FAT and SAT?
Depending on the agreed scope, documentation may include specifications, approved drawings, datasheets, FAT and SAT procedures, test protocols, certificates, manuals, installation records and relevant test documentation.
What can an independent FAT & SAT surveyor observe?
An independent surveyor may observe agreed functional, operational or performance testing, available measurements, test results, demonstrations, interfaces, integration activities, deficiencies and other relevant technical conditions within the agreed scope.
Can FAT and SAT identify equipment deficiencies?
Yes. Observable deficiencies, deviations, incomplete activities, installation matters or other relevant technical issues may be recorded during the witnessed FAT or SAT.
Can PAMS witness FAT or SAT re-testing?
Yes. Where requested and agreed, PAMS may attend subsequent FAT or SAT re-testing to independently observe corrective actions, repeat test activities and document the observed status.
Where can FAT and SAT Surveys be performed?
FAT Surveys can be performed at manufacturers, suppliers, workshops, shipyards or designated testing facilities. SAT Surveys can be performed aboard vessels, at shipyards, offshore facilities, terminals, industrial sites or other designated project locations.
What equipment can be covered by a FAT & SAT Survey?
FAT and SAT assignments may cover marine, offshore and industrial equipment and systems, subject to the applicable technical requirements, test procedures and agreed scope.
Does FAT or SAT replace commissioning?
No. FAT, SAT, installation testing and commissioning are separate project activities that may occur at different stages of the equipment lifecycle and may have different objectives and responsibilities.
What is included in a FAT & SAT Survey report?
Depending on the agreed scope, the report may include attendance details, equipment identification, documentation references, witnessed activities, available test results, observations, deficiencies, deviations, installation-related findings and supporting evidence.
Why use an independent FAT & SAT surveyor?
Independent FAT and SAT witnessing provides the client with an additional technical observation and documented record of agreed factory and site testing before delivery, after installation and during agreed follow-up activities.
About the Technical Author
Technical Content Review
Last Technical Review
September 2026
Review Frequency
Technical content is reviewed periodically to maintain alignment with applicable maritime regulations, classification requirements, recognized industry guidance and current marine inspection and testing practices.
Technical framework:
Applicable project specifications, manufacturer requirements, approved
FAT and SAT procedures, classification requirements, relevant marine
and offshore standards, equipment-specific technical requirements and
recognized inspection and testing practices, where applicable to the
equipment and agreed FAT/SAT scope.
Engineering Reference Notice
This article provides general technical information concerning Factory Acceptance Testing, Site Acceptance Testing, FAT & SAT Survey, independent technical witnessing and evaluation testing. The actual FAT and SAT scope depends on equipment type, manufacturer requirements, project specifications, approved test procedures, applicable technical requirements, installation status and agreed attendance arrangements. FAT or SAT witnessing does not automatically constitute certification, statutory approval, classification approval, commissioning authorization or contractual acceptance.
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