This Standard describes requirements for certification of firms that apply complex painting systems as defined in this Standard. The requirements of this Standard are applied to the quality management system of a certified Firm independent of individual project requirement for Certification to this Standard. The coating quality management system of a Firm@ not its products@ is certified. Certification to this Standard is neither an inspection nor an endorsement of product@ surface preparation@ or coating application. The Standard includes all functions and responsibilities that apply to surface preparation and coating in a shop environment for new steel or for steel which has been previously coated and blast-cleaned and is free of hazardous paint (lead@ etc.) when it arrives at the shop. The scope of this Standard does not include design@ fabrication@ manufacture@ erection@ surface preparation and application of coating in the field@ metallizing or galvanizing@ powder coating@ anodizing@ or compliance with safety (OSHA) and environmental (EPA) regulations. The re-painting (including surface preparation) of previously coated items returned to the Firm's coating facility for rework is included in the scope of this Standard; however@ removal of previously existing coatings is not included in the scope.1 Certification to this Standard cannot be shared or transferred to another company or facility without the written approval of AISC or SSPC. The Firm shall have the capability to meet all the requirements of this Standard. 1 Removal of previously existing coatings may fall under the scope of SSPC?QP 2.