Qualification and Certification of NDT Personnel
The framework
Know the distinction between qualification (demonstrated training, experience, and examination) and certification (written attestation by a certifying body that a person is qualified). Also distinguish certifying body (issues certification) from employer (responsible for authorization to perform specific work).
Levels
- Level I: performs specific calibrations and tests under supervision; records results.
- Level II: sets up and calibrates, interprets and evaluates per written procedures, organizes and reports; may supervise Level I.
- Level III: responsible for the NDT method, procedure development, technique selection, interpretation of codes/standards/specifications, and training/examination of lower levels.
Examination components
Typical structure: general examination (method fundamentals), specific examination (procedure, code, technique), practical examination (specimens with known flaws), plus vision requirements (near vision and color perception). Experience hours and training hours are method-specific. Recertification intervals and requirements vary by scheme.
Traps
- Confusing "certified" with "authorized to work" - employer authorization is separate.
- Assuming a Level III in one method certifies them in all methods.
- Mixing up who writes procedures (Level III) versus who follows them (Level I/II).
- Forgetting vision testing is part of the qualification requirement.
Rule of thumb
Level III = method owner (procedures, techniques, code interpretation, training). Level II = independent tester per procedure. Level I = supervised tester.
Worked example
A question asks who may interpret a code requirement for acceptance of an indication. Answer: the Level III (or equivalent authority designated by the employer), not the Level I.