ICC S2 Welding study guide
ICC S2 Welding · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The ICC S2 Welding credential - formally the 85-Structural Steel and Welding Special Inspector certification - is one of the special inspector examinations offered within the International Code Council's credentialing program. ICC describes its credentialing program as "one of the most historic and prestigious credentialing programs for construction codes and standards," and notes that it provides transitions for the 85-Structural Steel and Welding Special Inspector certification. The ICC S2 Welding study guide has 5 sections and about 1,290 words.
01Structural Steel Welding Inspection
This domain tests how an inspector verifies that structural steel welding complies with the contract documents, project specification, governing welding code such as AWS D1.1, and the approved WPS. The inspector confirms hold points, records evidence, and stops nonconforming work before it is covered.
273 words, about 1 min02Welding Processes and Procedure Qualification
Welding processes tested include SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, and SAW. The exam expects you to separate three documents: the WPS (written instruction), the PQR (record of procedure qualification testing), and the welder performance qualification (personnel).
253 words, about 1 min03Welder Qualification and Performance Testing
Welder performance qualification tests the individual’s ability to deposit sound weld under a specific WPS. The test is not a substitute for procedure qualification, and a welder must not be assigned work outside the qualified process, position, thickness, backing, or progression.
260 words, about 1 min04Welding Inspection and Nondestructive Examination
NDE supports, but never replaces, visual inspection. The inspector confirms method selection, timing, procedure, personnel certification, surface condition, and acceptance criteria.
267 words, about 1 min05Structural Steel Bolting and Connection Inspection
Bolted connection inspection verifies that the correct bolt, hole, joint preparation, and pretensioning method were used. High-strength bolts are typically ASTM F3125, which consolidated A325 and A490; grade markings, lubricant, washers, and coating must match the specification.
237 words, about 1 min