Certification Program Administration and Standards (SNT-TC-1A, CP-189)
Certification Program Administration and Standards (SNT-TC-1A, CP-189)
This domain tests your ability to administer a certification program under the two principal frameworks. SNT-TC-1A is a recommended practice: the employer writes a written practice and certifies personnel. CP-189 is a standard with mandatory requirements for an accredited central certification body, though employer responsibilities remain. Know the three certification levels (Trainee, Level I, Level II, Level III) and their duties: Level I performs specific calibrated tasks under supervision; Level II sets up and interprets per procedure; Level III develops procedures, interprets standards, and administers the program.
Understand the qualification versus certification distinction: qualification is demonstrating the attributes (training, experience, examination); certification is the written attestation by the employer or certifying body. Know the examination structure (general, specific, practical) and the minimum training/experience hours. Know the vision requirements (near vision, color perception) and the recertification cycle (typically 5 years) with evidence of continued performance. Understand the role of the Responsible Level III and the NDT Level III's authority.
Worked example / rule of thumb
For SNT-TC-1A, the employer's written practice is the controlling document. If a question asks who certifies a Level II, the answer is the employer (per the written practice), not ASNT. ASNT publishes the recommended practice but does not certify individuals under SNT-TC-1A.
Common question traps
- Believing ASNT certifies personnel under SNT-TC-1A (it does not).
- Confusing qualification with certification.
- Forgetting that the written practice governs when it is more stringent.
- Overlooking vision and recertification requirements.