Spectrum Usage

Inspection and Enforcement

Inspection is the act of determining that the licence conditions have indeed been met. In broadcasting, this may include confirmation that the transmitter is radiating the licensed radiated power, that the equipment is type approved, that it is installed in the correct place and that the radiated power at each azimuth around the station is as stated in the licence to control interference. This is possibly the moist intensive inspection. In other services, the inspection is simpler. Checks might be made to confirm type approval or radiated power. Sometimes inspection may be done by sampling only a few of the stations under a licence. And sometimes there is no inspection because the risks of interference as a result of a breach in licence conditions are deemed acceptable.

InterConnect has developed procedures and policy for inspections in order to meet the strategic objectives of regulators around the world. Likewise, InterConnect has developed policy and procedures for enforcement.

Enforcement is where the regulator takes action using the powers granted to it under a communications or other act or decree in order to cause a spectrum user to comply with licence obligations. This enforcement starts with an investigation to gather evidence. It may involve seizure of equipment and ultimately involve court action, injunction and fines for serious offences.