Validity, Period of Validity, Confirmation and Revalidation
Period of validity
A welder qualification certificate has a defined period of validity (commonly two years, but confirm against the current edition and part). During that period the qualification remains valid provided the welder continues to work within the qualified range.
Confirmation
Confirmation is the periodic check that the welder is still performing to the required standard. It is typically done by the employer's responsible person (e.g. welding coordinator) at defined intervals - often every six months - and recorded. Confirmation is not a re-test; it is evidence of continued satisfactory work.
Revalidation
Revalidation extends validity beyond the period. It may be by:
- re-testing (full or partial),
- documented evidence of continued satisfactory work within the range, or
- other means specified by the standard.
Traps
- Confusing confirmation (periodic check) with revalidation (extending validity).
- Assuming a certificate is valid forever if the welder keeps working - the period and confirmation requirements still apply.
- Forgetting that a break in welding (e.g. long absence) can invalidate the qualification.
- Overlooking that confirmation must be documented - verbal confirmation is not enough.
Rule of thumb
Two years validity, confirmation at intervals (commonly six months), revalidation before expiry. If in doubt, check the current edition - the numbers can change between editions.
Worked example
A welder qualified in January 2023 has a certificate valid to January 2025. Confirmation records exist every six months. In December 2024, revalidation is arranged by documented evidence of continued satisfactory work. If no confirmation records exist, revalidation by evidence is weak - a re-test may be required.