Product Evaluation Program

The Product Evaluation Program was designed to serve as a clearinghouse for the evaluation and approval of products for use on the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) construction projects. The program was developed because of the increased number of products being presented to NDOT for use. The Product Evaluation Program coordinates with divisions and districts within NDOT to ensure that all facets of the evaluation process are complete. In addition, the manufacturers and/or vendors have a formal, written process that ensures the products are evaluated fairly and in the same manner as their competitors.

All products submitted for approval are evaluated on the basis of need, performance, cost-competitiveness, and compliance with established acceptance criteria. Approved products are placed on the Qualified Product List (QPL). A contractor’s procurement and use of products are limited to those listed on the QPL or to those products meeting contract specifications. Placement of a product listed on the QPL does not constitute an endorsement by the department, nor does it imply a commitment to purchase, recommend, or specify the product in the future. Testing and certification of specific products remains in effect regardless of the status shown on the QPL. Periodically the products are reviewed and as long as the products continue to meet the acceptance criteria, the products remain on the QPL. If the products exhibit poor performance in the field, they will be removed from the QPL.

The Product Evaluation Committee (PEC) acts in an advisory capacity to address requests for acceptance criteria revision, establish qualified product lists, and approve requests for product field testing. The PEC recommendations are submitted to the Deputy Director/Chief Engineer for final approval. The PEC promotes interdisciplinary staff discussion of common problems dealing with the use of products and materials in construction or maintenance operations. The Research Division Chief or their designee presides over the quarterly PEC meetings and the Product Evaluation Coordinator serves as the PEC secretary.