Technical Resources
FAT and SAT: agree equipment acceptance before the purchase order
Samiyah Group · Published · Updated
Quick answer
A factory acceptance test checks agreed equipment functions before shipment; a site acceptance test checks the installed package under the agreed site conditions. Neither term defines a complete test scope on its own: criteria, witnesses, records and defect handling must be written into the project requirements.
Key takeaways
- Define tests before procurement commitments.
- Use representative product and operating conditions.
- Separate test completion from final contractual acceptance.
Specify what the test is supposed to establish
“FAT included” can mean anything from a basic visual check to a witnessed performance trial. Define the functions to be demonstrated, the configuration under test and the records the buyer expects. Identify what cannot be demonstrated until installation at the actual site.
The same discipline applies to SAT. Available utilities, connected systems, representative materials and authorised operators can determine whether a meaningful trial is possible. Testing should follow the responsible specialists’ safe-work and authorisation procedures.
Distinguish evidence from ceremony
A signed attendance sheet does not show whether the equipment met its criteria. Keep measured results, instrument identification, deviations and supporting observations together. Where a demonstration uses substitute materials or conditions, record the limitation explicitly.
Compare the two test stages
| Topic | Factory stage | Site stage |
|---|---|---|
| Configuration | Offered equipment before dispatch | Installed package and agreed interfaces |
| Inputs | Agreed test materials and utilities | Representative site supplies and process conditions |
| Interfaces | Those available at the supplier’s facility | Actual connected systems within the test boundary |
| Records | Function checks and agreed performance evidence | Installation checks and agreed operating evidence |
| Open items | Corrective actions before dispatch or later verification | Punch-list closure and handover actions |
Plan for a result that does not pass
Agree how defects are classified, who decides whether retesting is required and what happens to dispatch or handover. An unresolved item should have an owner, due date and documented acceptance decision. Avoid informal assurances that remove the evidence trail.
Define the contractual meaning of test sign-off separately from attendance. A witness may be present to observe results without authority to waive a requirement. That distinction should be clear to the supplier, owner and site team before testing begins.
Test-plan checklist
- Scope and equipment configuration are identified.
- Criteria include units and operating conditions.
- Test materials, utilities and instruments are available.
- Witnesses and decision authorities are named.
- Safety prerequisites and permission to operate are confirmed.
- Recording, defect handling and retest steps are agreed.
- Manuals, training and handover obligations remain tracked.
Frequently asked questions
Can a FAT replace site testing?
Only for items that the contract and responsible technical team agree can be established at the factory. Installed-system interfaces and actual site conditions may still require verification.
Is a successful test the same as final acceptance?
Not necessarily. The contract may also require documents, training, defect closure or other conditions. The authorised representative should confirm the meaning of sign-off.
What if production materials are unavailable?
Agree a justified alternative with the responsible specialists and document what the alternative does not prove. Do not silently treat a limited demonstration as full performance acceptance.
Sources & further reading
This is a Samiyah Group practical planning checklist, not a regulatory standard. Confirm project-specific technical requirements with the appointed specialists.
About Samiyah Group
Samiyah Group connects engineering expertise, China manufacturing resources and local project coordination, with a primary market focus on Bangladesh. Scope and specialist responsibilities are defined for each engagement. Our working approach.