If an inspection station is open on Saturday for fuel and service, is an inspection mechanic required to be on duty?

In the context of Pennsylvania's auto inspection regulations, the requirement for an inspection mechanic to be on duty is tied to the operational hours designated for inspections rather than general service or fuel operations. While an inspection station can be open on Saturdays for fueling and other services, inspections must occur only during designated hours that are typically aligned with a station’s standard operating schedule.

This means that if the station is open for fuel and service but not specifically for inspections, having an inspection mechanic on duty is not required outside of the usual business hours for inspections. Therefore, it’s perfectly acceptable for a station to operate on Saturdays for other services without a mechanic present, as long as inspections are being conducted within the typical hours set by regulations.

Understanding these operational requirements is crucial because it ensures that customers can rely on the necessary presence of qualified personnel during the times when inspections are actually performed, promoting safety and compliance with state regulations.