Validation is the process through which a Responsible Member (RM) demonstrates that a professional work product (PWP) meets the quality control and assurance measures described in a permit holder’s Professional Practice Management Plan. Validation is required if the PWP is produced by a LP (Licensed Practitioner) employed by, or working under contract of, an APEGA permit holder. Information on authenticating documents may be reviewed at the APEGA website.

Essentially, Alberta law requires every professional member who performs a task that is within the practice of engineering or geoscience to authenticate (stamp, sign and date) all final documents prepared or reviewed by the member as part of that task before the documents are issued. The requirement applies equally to an employee working for an employer or to a consultant working for a client. The stamp and signature signify that a licensed professional member of APEGA has accepted responsibility for the engineering or geoscience work represented in the authenticated document. A stamp is only issued to an individual who is qualified to practice engineering or geoscience in some capacity. The stamp is not a warranty or a guarantee of accuracy, however.