WACEL was established in 1974 as the Washington Area Council of Engineering Laboratories, Inc. to develop programs and guidelines that promote higher standards among firms and individuals involved in the observation and testing of construction materials. WACEL accomplishes this mission through a nationally recognized technician certification, laboratory accreditation and jurisdictional liaison program. WACEL continues to develop a unique public-private sector partnership that promotes quality and public health and safety. The organization’s efforts have evolved and have become key componets of the International Building Code.

Membership in WACEL is available to:

  • Engineering Laboratories that are headed by a professional engineer offering construction observation and testing services.
  • Inspection Agencies that are headed by a professional engineer offering construction observation services but do not have in-house laboratory facilities.
  • Technician Members who are individuals that possess current WACEL certifications.

WACEL works closely with building officials to write and implement procedures for Special Inspection Program mandated by the International Building Code. WACEL Certification and Laboratory Accreditation Programs or their equivalents are required by the following jurisdictions and agencies:

Virginia
Arlington County
City of Alexandria
Fairfax County
Fauquier County
Loudoun County
Prince William County
Stafford County
Spotsylvania County

Maryland
Montgomery County
Prince George’s County

Federal and Public Agencies
The Washington Metropolitan Airports Authority
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)
Naval Engineering Facilities Command (NAVFAC) Chesapeake Division

For more information about the organization, contact WACEL headquarters at 7900 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 305, Bethesda, MD 20814; 301-652-7925; fax: 301-907-9326.