| Press Release |
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| May 6, 2003 |
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Governor Announces Inspection Process for Equipment
Salem - Governor Theodore R. Kulongoski today announced state rule changes that will make it easier for high-tech firms to install new semiconductor industrial equipment.
"I can't say this too often," Governor Kulongoski said. "My first priority as governor is economic development for Oregon, and a major part of that is making sure government is an effective partner in helping business get things done. This rule change is a good example of that. We're streamlining regulations so that we can achieve the regulatory goal - in this case, safety - while removing barriers to efficient business activity."
The rule change was adopted by the state Building Codes Division and the Electrical and Elevator Board to allow semiconductor manufacturers the option to self-evaluate certain kinds of manufacturing equipment if they meet state standards. It applies to situations where high-tech firms need to install industrial electrical equipment that is one-of-a-kind or limited production, may be produced using special industry standards, and may require assembly by specially-trained technicians.
Oregon's electrical safety law and electrical specialty codes were not written with this kind of equipment in mind, so until now state rules have forced companies to spend thousands of dollars to have each piece of equipment independently evaluated and certified for compliance with Oregon's safety codes. Given that a single industrial plant may have hundreds or thousands of pieces of equipment, the process could be extremely expensive and time-consuming. Because the equipment is often highly sophisticated, the additional evaluation or certification generally provided no extra safety benefit.
Under the new rules, semiconductor manufacturing firms can apply to the state for an exemption on qualifying categories of equipment. To get the exemption, a manufacturer will have to produce a manual outlining internal procedures to ensure that the equipment is electrically safe. With an approved manual, the manufacturer can install equipment without additional evaluation or certification.
Exemptions will be audited annually by the Building Codes Division.
The new procedure has been adopted by temporary rule so that it can be implemented immediately instead of following the state's normal six-month rulemaking process. The Building Codes Division and the Electrical and Elevator Board will now work with lawmakers and the semiconductor industry to determine how best to make the changes permanent.
Contact:
Mary Ellen Glynn 503.378.6496
Scott Ballo 503.378.6169
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