048-9712-eng

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Government of Canada Canadian General Standards Board Gouvernement du Canada Office des normes générales du Canada

CAN/CGSB-48.9712-2000

Supersedes CAN/CGSB-48.9712-95

Non-destructive Testing —

Qualification and Certification of

Personnel (ISO 9712:1999, MOD)

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The CANADIAN GENERAL STANDARDS BOARD (CGSB), The STANDARDS COUNCIL OF CANADA is the co-ordinating under whose auspices this National Standard of Canada has been body of the National Standards System, a federation of developed is a government agency within Public Works and independent, autonomous organizations working towards the Government Services Canada. CGSB is engaged in the production further development and improvement of voluntary of voluntary standards in a wide range of subject areas through the standardization in the national interest.

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NATIONAL STANDARD OF CANADA

CAN/CGSB-48.9712-2000

Supersedes CAN/CGSB-48.9712-95

NON-DESTRUCTIVE TESTING —

QUALIFICATION AND CERTIFICATION OF PERSONNEL

(ISO 9712:1999, MOD)

The International Standard ISO 9712:1999 is adopted with national modifications as a Canadian national standard. See the national foreword for details of modifications and their identification within the text.

Prepared by the

Approved by the

Canadian General Standards Board

Standards Council of Canada

Published December 2000 by the

Canadian General Standards Board

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CANADIAN GENERAL STANDARDS BOARD

COMMITTEE ON NON-DESTRUCTIVE TESTING

AND CERTIFICATION OF PERSONNEL

(Membership at date of approval) deWalle, S. Chairperson Canadian N.D.E. Technology Ltd. Cecco, V. Atomic Energy of Canada Ltd. Cochrane, D. Atomic Energy Control Board deWalle, J. Andec Manufacturing Ltd. Dudley, M. Aerocom Inspection Service Ltd.

Dziub, G. Bombardier Aerospace

Ejem, M. Inco Ltd.

Fiorito, G. G´erard Fiorito Inc. Fisher, Maj G. National Defence

Fleming, D. Quality Control Council of Canada Ginzel, E. Materials Research Institute

Hazzi, S. AGFA Inc.

Hodgkinson, D. Nova Corporation of Alberta Kennedy, W. Canadian Welding Bureau Konikow, C. Trikon Technologies Inc.

Labb´e, G. Diamond Aircraft

Marshall, D. NDE Institute of Canada McCray, A. Spar Aerospace Ltd. McIntyre, D. Babcock & Wilcox Canada Montambeault, Sgt M. National Defence

Mullin, S. National Defence

Munro, B. Atlas Testing Labs (Oakville) Ltd. Murphy, R. Natural Resources Canada

Rebello, T. Ontario Power Generation

Schnubb, P. First Air

Smit, A. Canadian Society for Nondestructive Testing Inc. St. Onge, J. Horton CBI Ltd.

Stasuk, D. Stasuk Testing & Inspection Ltd.

Szucs, R. Air Canada Base 054

Taylor, D. Taylor NDE Services Inc. Tomlinson, S. ACRO Aerospace Inc.

Tonon, J. Algoma Steel Inc.

Whitely, D. Dofasco Inc.

Zirnhelt, J. MBB Power Services Inc.

Dolhan, P. Secretary Canadian General Standards Board

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National Standard of Canada

in accordance with

ISO 9712:1999, MOD

Non-destructive testing — Qualification and certification of personnel

The employer is responsible:

A certification body that issues a certificate in non-destructive testing (NDT) under CAN/CGSB-48.9712-2000 testifies to the qualification of an individual but does not give any authorization to operate (give permission to work). The employer is responsible for authorizing Canadian General Standards Board (CGSB)-certified NDT personnel to operate, based on the individual’s suitability for a specific job(s). The employer shall be fully responsible for all that concerns the authorization to operate, including the validity of the results of NDT operations. The employer is responsible to ensure that employees annually meet the visual acuity requirements and for verification of employee continuity of NDT work in the application of the NDT method(s) without significant interruption.

CGSB-certified personnel are issued certification in an NDT method/sector through a process of qualification based upon meeting the minimum requirements under this standard for knowledge, skill, training, experience and the ability to pass examinations — all of a general-knowledge nature. However, the work of CGSB-certified personnel may require a special knowledge of NDT as applied by his employer (company) to company or product specific tasks that are beyond the scope of the CGSB general-knowledge certification. Since “the employer is responsible,” it is recommended that the employers provide additional training, experience and examination (see 3.10) in their company- or product-specific tasks. Such tasks may include performing, specifying, reviewing, monitoring, supervising, and evaluating NDT work in a manner or of a nature that is unique to the company. Special knowledge may include company-specific methods, techniques, equipment, procedures, specifications, codes, etc. for which CGSB-certified personnel have responsibilities within the scope of their employment.

Annex F provides guidance to the employers for the preparation of examinations to qualify their personnel for company-or product-specific tasks. Note that these examinations are outside the scope of this standard. Qualification by the employer is neither qualification nor certification by a certification body and does not meet the requirements nor fulfil the provisions of this standard. Employer qualification of NDT personnel enhances but does not replace CGSB certification.

The employee is responsible:

Individuals certified to this standard shall recognize the precepts of personal integrity and professional competence as fundamental principles. CGSB-certified personnel are held responsible by the certification body to comply with the requirements of the “Code of ethics for NDT personnel” in Annex G. The failure of a certified individual to comply with one or more of these requirements constitutes just cause for de-certification by the certification body.

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Contents Page

Cover page... i

Contents ... ii

National foreword... iii

Introduction ... v

1 Scope... 1

2 Normative reference ... 1

3 Terms and definitions... 1

4 Abbreviations... 7

5 Levels of competence (NDT levels) ... 8

5.1 Classification ... 8 5.2 NDT level 1 ... 8 5.3 NDT level 2 ... 8 5.4 NDT level 3 ... 9 6 Responsibilities... 9 7 Eligibility... 11 8 Qualification examination ... 15 9 Certification ... 23

10 Certification validity and renewal... 24

11 Files ... 26

Annex A (informative) Suggested industrial sectors... 27

Annex B (informative) Technical knowledge of NDT personnel ... 28

Annex C (informative) Examples of structured credit systems for level 3 recertification ... 29

Annex D (informative) Recommended qualifications for instructors... 32

Annex E (informative) Guides to NDT certification ... 33

Annex F (informative) Employer’s guide for preparing examinations for company- and product-specific tasks ... 34

Annex G (mandatory) Code of ethics for NDT personnel... 35

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National foreword

This Canadian National Standard CAN/CGSB-48.9712-2000 is a modified adoption of the International Standard ISO 9712:1999, Non-destructive testing — Qualification and certification of personnel. CAN/CGSB-48.9712-2000 was prepared and approved by the CGSB Committee on Nondestructive Testing and Certification of Personnel (48/2). CAN/CGSB-48.9712-2000 was prepared in 1999 to harmonize, as much as possible, with the provisions of International Standard ISO 9712:1999, Non-destructive testing — Qualification and certification of personnel.

This standard replaces CAN/CGSB-48.9712-95, Qualification and Certification of Nondestructive Testing Personnel. Regulatory and code-writing bodies referencing CAN/CGSB-48.9712-95 should update their documents to reflect this change.

It is also the intention that the Canadian National NDT Standard harmonizes with the European NDT Standard EN 473,

Qualification and certification of NDT personnel — General Principles, and extensive reference to the latest edition,

EN 473:2000, will be found in the text.

Full adoption of ISO 9712:1999 is intended within the five-year period that ISO allows for compliance. Certain aspects of this International Standard are not presently acceptable to Canada because of fundamental climatic, geographical and technical problems — legitimate reasons for national deviations recognized in the Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade of the World Trade Organization (WTO/TBT Agreement), which Canada signed in 1994.

This Canadian National Standard has been reproduced from and reflects the format and content of ISO 9712:1999. In accordance with ISO/IEC Guide 21:1999, Adoption of International Standards as regional or national standards, Canadian deviations from the ISO 9712:1999 immediately follow the clause, figure or table. to which they refer. Each “national deviation” appears in a double-lined box along with a “national explanation” of the reasons for the deviation and the intended date for full compliance with ISO 9712:1999 if applicable. Where there are national deviations, Canada has looked to EN 473:2000 for guidance and appropriate wording. A double-lined box may also contain a “national explanatory note,” which provides additional information on the national adoption of ISO 9712:1999. In addition, whenever the words “International Standard” appear in the text, they should be understood as meaning “National Standard of Canada.”

A summary of some of the differences between Canadian National Standard CAN/CGSB-48.9712-2000 and the International Standard ISO 9712:1999 follows:

— deleted, expanded and additional definitions to clarify the meaning of the text;

— more examination questions. Unlike the narrow industrial sectors of ISO 9712, Canada’s certification is in a broad sector termed EMC (Engineering Materials and Components), which includes welds, forgings and castings. Also, the number of questions permits commonality between Canada and the U.S.A.;

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Foreword

ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out through ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical committee has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International organizations, governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work. ISO collaborates closely with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of electrotechnical standardization.

International Standards are drafted in accordance with the rules given in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 3.

Draft International Standards adopted by the technical committees are circulated to the member bodies for voting. Publication as an International Standard requires approval by at least 75 % of the member bodies casting a vote. International Standard ISO 9712 was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 135, Non-destructive testing Subcommittee SC 7, Personnel qualification.

This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition (ISO 9712:1992) which has been technically revised. Annexes A to C of this International Standard are for information only.

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Non-destructive testing — Qualification and certification of personnel Introduction

Since the effectiveness of any application of non-destructive testing depends upon the capabilities of the persons who perform or who are responsible for the test, a procedure was developed to provide a means for evaluating and documenting the competence of personnel whose duties require the appropriate theoretical and practical knowledge of the non-destructive tests that they perform, specify, supervise, monitor or evaluate. An added incentive stems from the world-wide comparability of a wide range of industrial applications requiring common non-destructive testing approaches.

Any certification body adopting this International Standard shall comply with level 3 requirements for qualification and certification, but is permitted a transition period of up to five years to implement levels 1 and 2.

The aim is to permit the starting of the system in a country that has no third party certification. It is also applicable when an independent certification body applies the certification scheme to a new NDT method or when a new industrial sector is created.

NOTE Wherever gender specific words such as “his,” “her,” “he” or “she” appear in this International Standard the other gender is also applicable.

National explanatory note:

Canada’s previous standard CAN/CGSB-48.9712-95 contained two options for qualifying and certifying NDT personnel:

Option A (non-ISO) almost fully complied with ISO 9712:1992 but retained some features of past Canadian standards, which were still desired by the Canadian industry.

Option B (ISO) fully complied with ISO 9712:1992.

CAN/CGSB-48.9712-2000 reflects Canada’s desire to move toward international harmonization while respecting Canadian geography, low population density, climate, traditions and industrial environment. It is Canada’s desire to have one National NDT Standard (no options) that complies with the International Standard ISO 9712. With this National Standard, CAN/CGSB-48.9712-2000, Canada formally adopts ISO 9712:1999 with some minor modifications. The availability and choice between option A (non-ISO) and option B (ISO) has ceased; all certified personnel must meet the requirements of this National Standard.

Recertification

Candidates for recertification can no longer switch from Option B to Option A, but must now pass the recertification examination(s). This standard provides for retakes of failed recertification examinations (see 10.3) during the five-year transition period (before January 1, 2005) allowed by ISO 9712:1999.

Renewal

Once individuals are certified in Canada, they hold their initial certificate forever, but their certification status can be “active” or “inactive.” An inactive status means that the individual no longer holds a valid certification. Certification can be maintained active by timely renewal. Up to three and a half years after the renewal deadline, certification may be reinstated as active by submitting a renewal application accompanied by documented proof of work experience without significant interruption (see 3.25) and an employer affidavit attesting to continuing NDT experience. Without such proof and an affidavit, or if the renewal application is more than three and a half years after the deadline, individuals can change their status from inactive to active by successful recertification or, failing recertification, by the successful completion of the initial certification process.

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Non-destructive testing — Qualification and certification of personnel

1 Scope

1.1 This International Standard establishes a system for the qualification and certification, by a certification body, of personnel to perform industrial non-destructive testing (NDT) using any of the following methods:

a) eddy current testing; b) liquid penetrant testing; c) magnetic particle testing; d) radiographic testing; e) ultrasonic testing.

1.2 The system described in this International Standard may also apply to visual inspection (VT), leak testing (LT), neutron radiography (NT), acoustic emission (AT) and other NDT methods where independent certification programmes exist. 1.3 Where latitude is provided in the criteria within this International Standard, the certification body shall have the final decision in determining specific requirements.

2 Normative reference

The following normative document contains provisions which, through reference in this text, constitute provisions of this International Standard. For dated references, subsequent amendments to, or revisions of, any of these publications do not apply. However, parties to agreements based on this International Standard are encouraged to investigate the possibility of applying the most recent editions of the normative document indicated below. For undated references, the latest edition of the normative document referred to applies. Members of ISO and IEC maintain registers of currently valid International Standards.

EN 45013:1989, General criteria for certification bodies operating certification of personnel. 3 Terms and definitions

For the purposes of this International Standard, the following terms and definitions apply. 3.1

authorized qualifying body

competent organization, independent of the employer or responsible agency, approved by the certification body to prepare and administer examinations to qualify NDT personnel

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3.2 candidate

individual seeking certification in accordance with this International Standard National deviation:

Replace the text of 3.2 with “individual who is registered with a certification body as seeking qualification and subsequent certification to this standard. The individual works or has worked under the supervision of suitably qualified personnel while gaining appropriate experience.”

National explanation:

A candidate cannot be self-declared but must be registered with the certification body. Otherwise the certification body will have no knowledge of his existence, including who he is, how to contact him, or what stage he is at in the qualification process leading to certification to this standard.

3.3 certificate

written testimony of qualification National deviation:

Add “An official, written legal document issued by the certification body, bearing its seal and signed by its officer(s), serving as evidence of the individual’s level of competency in NDT and his fulfillment of all of the qualification requirements of this standard”

The original definition needs elaboration concerning purpose, description and responsibility.

3.4

certification body

agency that administers procedures for certification of NDT personnel in accordance with the requirements of this International Standard

In Canada, the certification body is also called the National Certifying Agency.

3.5

certification

procedures leading to a written testimony of the qualification of an individual’s level of competence in a given NDT method and industrial sector

National deviation:

Replace the text of 3.5 with “procedures leading to a written testimony, issued by the certification body, of the qualification of an individual’s level of competence in a given NDT method and industrial sector”

According to ISO/IEC Guide 2:1996, Standardization and related activities — General vocabulary, “certification is a procedure by which a third party gives written assurance that a product, process or service conforms to specified requirements.” Under this National NDT Standard, the certification body is the third party conducting the certification procedure and issuing written assurance (certificate) that an individual conforms to the specified qualification requirements (e.g. knowledge, training, experience, skill, examinations, eyesight and code of ethics) of this standard.

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National deviation: Add:

3.5A certified

status granted by the certification body to an individual holding a certificate, issued by the certification body, attesting to the holder’s level of competence, in a given NDT method and industrial sector

3.5B certify

action of the certification body to officially declare in writing, by means of issuing a certificate, the level of competence of an individual, in a given NDT method and industrial sector. Competence is determined through a process of qualification, controlled and conducted by the certification body, that measures the knowledge, training, experience, skill, etc. of the individual in accordance with the specified qualification requirements of this standard.

These additional definitions complete the definitions pertaining to certification in 3.3, 3.4 and 3.5. See also 3.24, 3.24A and 3.24B.

NOTE In 6.2.3 f) and 9.1, the certification body controls the issue of certificates.

3.6

employer or responsible agency

organization for which the candidate works on a regular basis National explanatory note:

According to 6.5.4, the candidate may be self-employed.

3.7

examination, basic

one of the level 3 qualification examinations which assesses the knowledge of: — the materials science and processes technology,

— this qualification and certification system and

— the basic principles of NDT methods as required for level 2 3.8

examination centre

centre approved by the certification body, either directly or through the authorized qualifying body, where qualification examinations will be carried out

An examination centre may be located on the employer’s premises, provided that examination supervision (invigilation) is assured by an individual authorized by the certification body.

3.9

examination, general

written level 1 or level 2 examination concerned with the principles of an NDT method 3.10

examination, job-specific

any additional examination concerned with the application of an NDT method to a specialized product not commonly involved in a particular industrial sector

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Annex F provides guidance to employers concerning the preparation of examinations that can be used to assess their personnel for company- or product-specific tasks.

3.11

examination, main method

one of the level 3 qualification examinations, which assesses the general and specific knowledge of the level 3 candidate in the method for which certification is sought, and the ability to write NDT procedures

3.12

examination, practical

examination to assess the candidate’s ability to perform the NDT method 3.13

examination, qualification

examination administered by a certification body or by an authorized qualifying body, which assesses the knowledge and capabilities of the candidate

3.14

examination, specific

written examination concerned with the application of an NDT method in a particular industrial sector or sectors, which includes knowledge of the product and related codes, standards, specifications and acceptance criteria

3.15 examiner

person certified to level 3 in the method he is to examine, and authorized by the certification body to conduct and/or grade NDT qualification examinations

NOTE No level 3 person shall be the only examiner for any candidate he has personally trained for that examination.

3.16 experience

period during which the candidate performed the specific NDT method under qualified supervision, including personal application of the NDT method to materials, parts or structures

Practical tests performed during training courses are not considered as experience. Note that experience may be acquired either before or after success in the qualification examination (7.2A).

3.17

industrial sector

particular area in industry or technology where specialized NDT practices are utilized requiring specific skill, knowledge, equipment or training to achieve satisfactory performance

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3.17A

invigilator, authorized

person authorized by the certification body to supervise examinations National explanation:

Invigilator is not defined in ISO 9712:1999. Subclause 3.15 defines an examiner as a level 3 who can conduct and/or

grade examinations. Often, the invigilation of NDT examinations does not require the presence of an NDT expert. The individual administering the examination (the invigilator) needs to verify the appointment, inform the candidate of what is required, explain the rules, distribute examination forms, provide vigilance during the examination, control the time, collect the completed examination forms, and send the witnessed examinations and forms to the certification body for grading. In Canada, the certification body retains the right to authorize persons to invigilate the NDT examinations. This is in accordance with 8.3.2 and 8.3.4.

3.18

NDT instruction

written description of the precise steps to be followed in testing to an established NDT procedure, standard, code or specification

3.19

NDT method

application of a physical principle in non-destructive testing (e.g. ultrasonic testing) 3.20

NDT procedure

orderly sequence of steps describing where, how and in which sequence an NDT method should be applied to a product 3.21

NDT technique

specific way of utilizing an NDT method (e.g. immersion ultrasonic testing) 3.22

NDT training

process of instruction in theory and practice in the NDT method in which certification is sought, which takes the form of training courses to an approved syllabus, but shall not include the use of specimens used in practical examinations

In Canada, the certification body has established approved training syllabi for each NDT method and level. See 7.1.1 and 7.1.2 and annexes B, D and E for more information on training.

3.23

operating authorization

permission to work, issued by the employer or responsible agency and based on the individual’s suitability for a specific job 3.24

qualification

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National deviation:

Replace the text in 3.24 with “demonstration or evidence of a set of abilities, such as knowledge, training, experience, skill and eyesight, in compliance with the specified requirements of this standard. These abilities must be demonstrated before the certification body considers an individual competent to perform specific functions in the NDT profession. Qualification is a process that measures the individual’s level of competence in NDT. It is controlled solely by the certification body and upon completion leads directly to certification of the individual by the certification body.” National explanation:

The original definition needs elaboration regarding purpose, description and responsibility. This definition is in accordance with ISO 8402:1994, Quality management and quality assurance — Vocabulary, which defines qualification as a “process of demonstrating whether an entity (product, process, organization or person) is capable of fulfilling specified requirements.”

3.24A qualified

having demonstrated the necessary qualifications (abilities, knowledge, skills, training, experience, etc.) in accordance with the requirements of this standard, the individual is considered competent by the certification body to perform specific functions in the NDT profession

3.24B qualify

act(s) of an individual to demonstrate to the certification body competency in NDT by fulfilling the qualification requirements (abilities, knowledge, skills, training, experience, etc.) of this standard

These definitions are needed to complete those pertaining to qualification in 3.24.

This standard carries the title “Non-destructive testing — Qualification and certification of personnel.”

Qualification is a process of demonstrating abilities against specific requirements of this standard. For example, individuals provide proof of training, experience and eyesight, and demonstrate their ability by passing written and practical examinations.

“Certification is a procedure administered by a third party (a body that is recognized as being independent of the parties involved, i.e. an organization that is not involved in the individual’s training or employment). After an individual has successfully fulfilled all qualification requirements, the certification body issues a certificate testifying to the individual’s level of competence.” (Reference: ISO/IEC Guide 2:1996)

The certification body is the only entity that is aware of and documents the progress of an individual through the various stages of qualification; thus it is the only entity that can declare that an individual fulfils one or more requirements of the standard. When the qualification process is completed by the certification body (all requirements of qualification fulfilled), the certification body will declare the individual certified by publishing the individual’s name and issuing a certificate (a written testimony of qualification) and wallet-card.

3.25

significant interruption

absence or a change of activity which prevents the certified individual from practising the duties corresponding to his level in the method and the industrial sector(s) for which he is certified, for a continuous period exceeding one year

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3.26 supervision

act of directing the application of NDT performed by other NDT personnel, which includes the control of actions involved in the preparation of the test, performance of the test and reporting of the results

3.26A

supervision, qualified

to gain experience in accordance with 3.16, the candidate must be supervised by NDT personnel certified to this National Standard or by non-certified personnel who, in the opinion of the certification body, possess the knowledge, skill, training and experience required to properly perform such supervision

This definition explains “qualified supervision,” which is referred to in 3.16.

3.27

test specimen

sample used in practical examinations

NOTE Samples should be representative of products typically tested in the applicable industrial sector and may include more than one area or volume to be tested.

3.28 trainee

individual who works under the supervision of certified personnel but who does not conduct any tests independently, does not interpret test results and does not write reports on test results

NOTE This individual may be registered as being in the process of gaining appropriate experience to establish eligibility for qualification to level 1 or for direct access to level2.

Trainees are outside the scope of this standard. They are not recognized, classified, certified or qualified in accordance with the requirements of this standard, and have no competence under this standard. This in accordance with EN 473:2000, which has no definition or classification for trainees.

4 Abbreviations

The following abbreviations shall be used to identify the five Non-destructive testing (NDT) methods covered by this International Standard:

— eddy current testing ET — liquid penetrant testing PT — magnetic particle testing MT — radiographic testing RT — ultrasonic testing UT

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5 Levels of competence (NDT levels) 5.1 Classification

An individual certified in accordance with this International Standard shall be classified in one of the following three levels, whereas one who has not yet attained certification may be classified as a trainee.

National deviation:

Replace the text in 5.1 with “An individual certified in accordance with this National Standard shall be classified in one of the following three levels.”

This is in accordance with EN 473:2000, which does not recognize a trainee either by definition or by assigning a classification. Canada recognizes only three levels of competence, and those are for certified individuals classified as level 1, level 2 and level 3.

5.2 NDT level 1

5.2.1 An individual certified to NDT level 1 is qualified to carry out NDT operations in accordance with written instructions and under the supervision of level 2 or level 3 personnel.

He shall be able to: a) set up the equipment; b) perform the tests;

c) record and classify the results in accordance with documented criteria; d) report on the results.

5.2.2 An individual certified to level 1 shall not be responsible for the choice of the test method or technique to be used. 5.3 NDT level 2

An individual certified to NDT level 2 is qualified to perform and direct non-destructive testing in accordance with established or recognized procedures. This may include:

a) defining the limitations of application of the test method for which the level 2 individual is qualified;

b) translating NDT codes, standards, specifications and procedures into practical testing instructions adapted to the actual working conditions;

c) setting up and verifying equipment settings; d) performing and supervising tests;

e) interpreting and evaluating results according to applicable codes, standards and specifications; f) preparing NDT instructions;

g) carrying out or supervising all level 1 duties; h) training or guiding personnel below level 2;

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National deviation:

Replace the text of h) with “training or guiding personnel at or below level 2;” Add: j) selecting the NDT technique for the test method to be used.

Item h) is altered to be in accordance with EN 473:2000 to permit a level 2 to train or guide personnel at the same level. While not listed in 5.3, ISO 9712:1999 states in Table 6, Item 2 a), “for level 2, selection of the techniques and determination of the operating conditions.” Thus, there is a conflict within the ISO Standard. Both ISO 9712:1992 and EN 473:2000 allow a level 2 to select the technique. Canada has always permitted a level 2 to select the NDT technique and will continue to allow it.

5.4 NDT level 3

5.4.1 An individual certified to NDT level 3 may be authorized to direct any operation in the NDT method(s) for which he is certified. This may include:

National deviation:

Replace the text of 5.4.1 with “An individual certified to NDT level 3 is qualified to direct any operation in the NDT method(s) for which he is certified. This may include:”

This editorial change makes the wording in 5.4.1 consistent with that in 5.2.1 and 5.3. In ISO 9712:1992, these clauses read “may be authorized to.” Anticipating a future editorial correction, Canada has harmonized the wording of 5.4.1, 5.2.1 and 5.3.

a) assuming full responsibility for an NDT facility and staff; b) establishing and validating techniques and procedures; c) interpreting codes, standards, specifications and procedures;

d) designating the particular test methods, techniques and procedures to be used for specific NDT work; e) interpreting and evaluating results in terms of existing codes, standards and specifications;

f) managing qualification examinations, if authorized for this task by the certification body; g) carrying out or supervising all level 1 and level 2 duties.

5.4.2 An individual certified to level 3 shall have:

a) sufficient practical background in applicable materials, fabrication and product technology in order to be able to select methods and establish techniques and to assist in establishing acceptance criteria where none is otherwise available; b) a general familiarity with other NDT methods;

c) the ability to train or guide personnel below level 3. 6 Responsibilities

6.1 General

The certification activity shall be administered by a certification body, with the assistance, where necessary, of authorized qualifying bodies. It includes all procedures adopted to demonstrate the qualification of an individual to carry out tasks in a specific NDT method and leads to certification of his competence.

6.2 Certification body

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6.2.2 A certification body shall be supported by a committee composed of representatives of NDT societies, committees, users, suppliers, government departments and other interested parties as appropriate. This committee shall be responsible for setting and maintaining the technical standards of examination. Its members shall be qualified for the tasks by an appropriate combination of NDT certification and/or experience. At least 50 % of its members shall hold a valid level 3 certification. 6.2.3 A certification body:

a) shall initiate, maintain and promote the certification scheme as specified in this International Standard;

b) shall administer the procedures and operations for certification in accordance with a documented procedure, meeting the minimum requirements of this International Standard and a stringent code of ethics, including sanctions, which shall apply to committee members and certificate holders;

c) may delegate, under its direct responsibility, the detailed administration of the certification procedure to other organizations acting as qualifying bodies;

d) shall take the ultimate responsibility for the certification scheme, including technical and administrative requirements; e) shall approve, either directly or through an authorized qualifying body, properly staffed and equipped examination centres

which it shall monitor on a periodic basis;

f) shall keep all appropriate records and issue, or delegate the issuing of, certificates;

g) shall maintain a collection of current examination questions. For each multiple-choice question this data bank shall indicate the correct answer. For other questions this data bank shall include a model answer. It is desirable that answers include a reference that validates the answer;

h) shall, when creating a sector, define precisely the chosen combination of the sectors which constitute the multi-sector. Guidance on the creation of industrial sectors is given in annex A.

6.3 Authorized qualifying bodies

An authorized qualifying body shall, where established, be approved by the certification body and shall, with the approval of the certification body:

a) apply a documented quality procedure; b) establish and monitor examination centres;

c) prepare and supervise the qualification examinations;

d) maintain appropriate qualification and examination records according to the requirements of the certification body. 6.4 Examination centres

6.4.1 Examination centres shall be established or approved by the certification body or through authorized qualifying bodies and shall, as a minimum:

a) have adequate qualified staff, premises and equipment to ensure satisfactory qualification examinations for the levels, methods and industrial sectors concerned;

b) use only those documents and examination questionnaires established or approved by the certification body; c) use only specimens approved by the certification body for the practical examinations conducted at that centre; d) apply a documented quality procedure.

National deviation:

Add to 6.4.1 d) “approved by the certification body.” National explanation:

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6.5 Employer or responsible agency

6.5.1 The employer or responsible agency shall introduce the candidate to the certification body or the authorized qualifying body and document the validity of the personal information provided. The documentation shall include the declaration of education, training and experience needed to establish the eligibility of the candidate. The employer or responsible agency shall not be directly involved in the certification procedure itself.

6.5.2 The employer or responsible agency shall be fully responsible for all that concerns the authorization to operate, including the validity of the results of NDT operations.

6.5.3 The employer or the responsible agency shall ensure that employees annually meet the visual acuity requirements of 7.2.3 (see note in 9.2).

6.5.3A The employer or responsible agency shall verify that the employee has maintained his NDT activity and practised the duties corresponding to his level in the NDT method and the industrial sector(s) for which he is certified without significant interruption.

Subclause 6.5.1 appears to cover initial certification. Subclauses 6.5.2, 6.5.3 and 7.2.3 cover other responsibilities beyond initial certification such as authorization to operate and annual vision tests. However, the employer(s) is also responsible for verifying that certified employees have maintained their NDT activity and practised the duties corresponding to the level in the NDT method and the industrial sector(s) in which they are certified. Subclause 6.5.3A is added to cover this omission. This is in accordance with EN 473:2000.

6.5.4 If the individual is self-employed, or presents himself alone, he shall assume all responsibilities specified for the employer or responsible agency.

7 Eligibility

7.1 Eligibility for examination

To be eligible for examination, the candidate shall fulfil the minimum NDT training requirements which are specified in this clause.

7.1.1 NDT training — level 1 and level 2

The candidate shall provide evidence acceptable to the certification body of completion of a course of NDT training in the method and level for which certification is sought. Training providers should issue documentary proof of completion of training.

National deviation:

Delete the last sentence in 7.1.1 and replace with “Training providers must issue documentary proof of satisfactory completion of training. Each NDT training course must follow the curriculum prescribed by the certification body (see Annex E). The certification body decides on the acceptability of NDT training courses and of course instructors (see Annex D).”

The certification body requires documentary proof that training was satisfactorily completed. This requirement is in accordance with EN 473:2000. In Canada, candidates may obtain training as follows: candidates may attend formal courses offered in the larger population centres; companies may ask course providers to provide on-site training; with prior approval by the certification body, companies may conduct their own training courses; candidates may follow a program of self-training or correspondence courses because of the remoteness of their location or other reasons. Because of this diversity, the certification body will retain control over training, including the syllabus and the instructor. See annexes D and E for more information.

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Table 1 provides guidance on the duration of training. However, when deciding the duration of training required, the certification body may consider other factors, such as education, certification in other methods and sectors and the nature of the training.

Table 1 — Duration of training

NDT Method Level 1 (hours) Level 2 (hours)

ET 40 40

PT 16 24

MT 16 24

RT 40 80

UT 40 80

NOTE 1 Training hours include both practical and theory courses.

NOTE 2 Direct access to level 2 implies the total hours for level 1 and level 2.

7.1.2 Training — level 3

Depending on the scientific and technical potential of a candidate for level 3 certification, preparation for qualification may be done in different ways: e.g. by attending training courses, conferences or seminars (such as those organized by industrial or independent associations), studying books, periodicals and other sources of relevant information. However the candidate has prepared, he shall provide documentary evidence of training acceptable to the certification body.

Information in annex B may be used to guide development of training and education syllabi. 7.2 Eligibility for certification

To be eligible for certification, the candidate shall have passed the qualification examination and shall fulfil the minimum requirements specified in this clause.

7.2A Industrial NDT experience

Industrial NDT experience may be acquired either before or after success in the qualification examination. If experience is sought after successful examination, the results of the examination shall remain valid for two years.

Subclauses 7.1, 7.1.1, 7.1.2, 7.2, 7.2.1 and 7.2.2 differ significantly from ISO 9712:1992, which required candidates to have experience before being eligible to take the qualification examination. Now, experience can be gained after passing the qualification examination. However, 7.2 does not indicate how long candidates have to gain this experience. Subclause 7.2A (from EN 473:2000) is needed to define the time limit between passing the examination and gaining the required experience. The certification body shall issue letters of attestation to successful candidates, indicating that they have passed the qualification examination and need only to meet the experience requirement to be certified.

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7.2.1 NDT experience — level 1 and level 2

The minimum requirements for experience to be gained prior to certification shall be as specified in Table 2. Documentary evidence of experience shall be verified by the employer and provided to the certification body.

Table 2 — Minimum experience requirements — levels 1 and 2

Experience (months) NDT Method Level 1 Level 2 ET 3 9 PT 1 3 MT 1 3 RT 3 9 UT 3 9

NOTE 1 Work experience in months is based on a nominal 40 h/week (175 h/month) or the legal week of work. Any individual working in excess of 40 h per week, may be credited with experience based on the total hours, but shall be required to produce documentary evidence of this experience. NOTE 2 For level 2 certification, the intent of this International Standard is that work experience consists of NDT work time as an individual certified to level 1. If the individual is being qualified directly to level 2, with no time at level 1, the experience shall consist of the sum of the times required for level 1 and level 2.

NOTE 3 Credit for work experience may be gained simultaneously in two or more of the NDT methods covered by this International Standard, with the reduction of total required experience as follows:

a) two testing methods — reduction of total required time by 25 %; b) three testing methods — reduction of total required time by 33 %; c) four or more testing methods — reduction of total time by 50 %.

In all cases where a reduction is sought the candidate shall be required to show that, for each of the testing methods for which he seeks certification, he has at least half of the time required in this table.

7.2.2 NDT experience — level 3

Level 3 responsibilities require knowledge beyond the technical scope of any specific NDT method. This broad knowledge may be acquired through a variety of combinations of education, training and experience, which shall be documented and provided to the certification body. Table 3 details minimum experience related to formal education.

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Table 3 — Minimum experience requirements — level 3

Experience

Method of access Education

(months) Access to level 3 by a certified level Graduate of a three year or longer accredited science or 12 2 operator engineering college or university programme

Successful completion of at least two years of engineering 24 or science study at an accredited college, university or

technical school.

No degree 48

Direct access to level 3 by a non- Graduate of a three year or longer accredited science or 24 certified operator with experience engineering college or university programme

equivalent to level 2.

Successful completion of at least two years of engineering 48 The candidate shall have passed the _{or science study at an accredited college, university or}

practical examination for level 2 in _{technical school.} that method (except for writing the

No degree 72

NDT instruction)

NOTE If a college or university degree is issued in non-destructive testing, the experience required for access to level 3 may be reduced by 50 %.

National deviation:

Replace the NOTE in Table 3 with:

NOTE 1 If the college or university degree is issued in non-destructive testing, the experience required for access to level 3 may be reduced by 50 %. NOTE 2 Credit for work experience may be gained simultaneously in two or more of the NDT methods covered by this National Standard, with the reduction of total required experience as follows:

a) two testing methods – reduction of total required time by 25 %; b) three testing methods – reduction of total required time by 33 %; c) four or more testing methods – reduction of total time by 50 %.

In all cases where a reduction is sought the candidate shall be required to show that, for each of the testing methods for which he seeks certification, he has at least half of the time required in this table.

The new wording of Table 3 comes from Table 2 and is in accordance with EN 473:2000. Table 2 allows level 1 and 2 candidates a reduction in required experience for work experience gained simultaneously in two or more NDT methods. Canada believes that candidates for all levels of certification should be treated the same and extends this simultaneous experience provision to level 3 candidates.

7.2.3 Vision requirements — all levels

The candidate shall provide documented evidence of satisfactory vision in accordance with the following requirements: National deviation:

Replace the text in 7.2.3 with “The candidate shall provide documented evidence of satisfactory vision, as determined by an ophthalmologist, optometrist, physician, nurse or other medically recognized personnel, in accordance with the following requirements:”

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b) colour vision shall be such that the candidate can distinguish and differentiate contrast between the colours used in the NDT method concerned as specified by the employer.

Subsequent to certification, the tests of visual acuity shall be carried out annually and be verified by the employer or the responsible agency (see 6.5.3).

7.2.4 Code of ethics

Candidates requesting certification shall affirm their agreement to abide by the code of ethics in Annex G by signing a code of ethics declaration form.

In accordance with 6.2.3B, the certification body requires a code of ethics that applies to certified personnel.

8 Qualification examination

The qualification examination shall cover a given NDT method as applied in one or more specific industrial sectors. 8.1 Examination content and grading for level 1 and level 2

8.1.1 General examination

8.1.1.1 The general examination shall include only questions selected from the certification body’s or authorized qualifying body’s collection of basic knowledge questions valid at the date of examination. The candidate shall be required, as a minimum, to give answers to the number of multiple choice questions shown in Table 4.

8.1.1.2 The time allowed to the candidates for completion of each examination shall be based upon the number and difficulty of the questions. The average time allowed shall be no less than one and no more than two minutes per multiple choice question.

8.1.1.3 Where not otherwise addressed by national regulations, there shall be an additional examination on radiation safety for the radiographic test method.

8.1.1.4 Examinations on the radiographic test method may include either X- or gamma-radiation, or both, depending upon the procedure of the certification body.

To be eligible for certification in the radiographic test method a candidate must successfully complete an examination in X-ray and gamma-ray-radiation safety. The candidate must obtain a minimum grade of 70 % in radiation safety. The grade(s) obtained in the radiation-safety examination(s) will not be used to calculate the composite grade referred to in 8.1.4.3.1 and 8.2.3.2.

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Table 4 — Required minimum number of questions — General examinations Number of questions NDT method Level 1 Level 2 ET 40 40 PT 30 30 MT 30 30 RT 40 40 UT 40 40

In Canada, the number of questions on the general examinations are shown in Table 4A. There are more questions because Canada’s EMC sector covers several industrial sectors (8.1.2.4).

Table 4A — Number of questions — General examinations Number of questions NDT Method Level 1 Level 2 ET EMC-sector 40 40 PT EMC-sector 40 40 MT EMC-sector 40 40 RT EMC-sector 40 40 RT Aviation-sector not 40 applicable UT EMC-sector 40 40

EMC = Engineering Materials and Components (plate/pipe welds, castings and forgings)

8.1.2 Specific examination

8.1.2.1 The specific examination shall include only questions selected from the certification body’s or authorized qualifying body’s current collection of specific questions related to the industrial sector(s) concerned.

8.1.2.2 The time allowed to the candidates for completion of each examination shall be based upon the number and difficulty of the questions. The average time allowed for multiple choice questions shall be no longer than three minutes per question. The average time allowed for written questions shall be determined by the certification body.

8.1.2.3 During the specific examination, the candidate shall be required to give answers to at least the number of questions specified in Table 5, including questions involving calculations, written procedures and questions on codes, standards and specifications.

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Table 5 — Required minimum number of questions — Specific examinations Number of questions NDT method Level 1 Level 2 ET 20 20 PT 20 15 MT 20 15 RT 20 20 UT 20 20

In Canada, the number of questions on the specific examinations are shown in Table 5A. There are more questions because Canada’s EMC sector covers several industrial sectors (8.1.2.4).

Table 5A — Number of questions — Specific examinations Number of questions NDT Method Level 1 Level 2 ET EMC-sector 40 60 PT EMC-sector 40 50 MT EMC-sector 40 50 RT EMC-sector 40 70 RT Aviation-sector not 35 applicable UT EMC-sector 40 70

EMC = Engineering Materials and Components (plate/pipe welds, castings and forgings)

8.1.3 Practical examination

8.1.3.1 Each test specimen shall be uniquely identified and have a master sheet that includes all of the equipment settings used to detect discontinuities contained within the specimen. The master sheet shall be compiled based upon at least two independent tests conducted by personnel holding appropriate certification, and shall be authorized by a level 3 examiner for use in grading examinations.

8.1.3.2 The number of areas or volumes to be tested shall be adequate to the level and NDT method, and to the industrial sector concerned, but shall not be less than two, containing reportable discontinuities. For radiography, see 8.1.3.5. 8.1.3.3 The level 1 candidate shall follow the NDT instruction(s) provided by the examiner.

8.1.3.4 The level 2 candidate shall select the applicable NDT technique and determine the operating conditions related to a given code, standard or specification.

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8.1.3.6 The time allowed for the examination depends on the number of test specimens and of their complexity. The recommended maximum time allowed for each area or volume tested is:

a) for level 1, three hours; b) for level 2, four hours.

8.1.3.7 Level 2 candidates shall draft at least one NDT Instruction suitable for level 1 personnel. 8.1.4 Grading of the level 1 and level 2 qualification examination

8.1.4.1 An examiner shall be responsible for the grading of the examinations. The general, specific and practical examinations shall be graded separately.

8.1.4.2 The examination grading should be based on items 1 to 4 in Table 6, with the recommended weighting in relation to the level.

8.1.4.3 The certification body shall implement the passing grade criteria in a consistent manner by using one of the following two methods:

8.1.4.3.1 Composite grade method

To be eligible for certification the candidate shall obtain a minimum grade of 70 % in each examination and a minimum composite grade of 80 %. The composite grade N shall be calculated in accordance with the following formula:

N = 0,25n g + 0,25n s + 0,50n p

where

n g is the grade for the general examination; n s is the grade for the specific examination; n p is the grade for the practical examination.

Canada has chosen to use the composite grade method. In accordance with 8.1.1.3 and 8.1.1.4 for the radiographic test method, the grades obtained in the radiation safety examinations will not be used for calculating composite grade.

8.1.4.3.2 Minimum grade method

To be eligible for certification a candidate shall obtain a grade of at least 70 % in each of the written examinations and 80 % in the practical examination.

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Table 6 — Subjects and weighting factors for grading — practical examination

Weighting factor

Item Subject

Level 1 Level 2 1 Knowledge of the apparatus, including the function and verification of 20 % 10 %

the setting of the apparatus.

2 The application of NDT to the test specimen. This consists of the 35 % 20 % following parts:

a) for level 2, selection of the techniques and determination of the operating conditions;

b) the preparation (surface condition) and visual examination of the test piece;

c) the setting up of the apparatus; d) the performance of the test; e) the operations after the test.

3 The detection and reporting of the discontinuities and, for level 2, their 45 % 55 % characterization (position, orientation, dimensions and type) and

evaluation.

4 For level 2, the written instruction for level 1. — 15 % 8.2 Examination content and grading for level 3

8.2.1 Basic examination

8.2.1.1 The basic examination shall be in writing and shall assess the candidate’s knowledge of the basic subjects using the minimum required number of questions shown in Table 7. Examination questions shall be selected from the certification body’s or the authorized qualifying body’s current collection at the time of the examination.

8.2.1.2 The basic examination should be passed first and remains valid, providing that the first main method examination is passed within five years of passing the basic examination.

Table 7 — Minimum required number of basic examination questions

Subject Number of questions

Technical knowledge in materials science and process technology 25 Knowledge of the certification body’s qualification and certification system based on this 10 International Standard. This may be an open book examination.

General knowledge of at least four methods as required for level 2 and chosen by the 15

candidate from the methods given in Clause 1. These four methods shall comprise the _{for each test method} principal method for which the certification is sought and three others which must include _{(total 60)} at least one volumetric method (UT or RT).

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In Canada, the number of questions on the basic examination are shown in Table 7A. There are more questions because Canada’s EMC sector covers several industrial sectors.

Table 7A — Number of basic examination questions

Number of Subject

questions Technical knowledge in materials science and process technology (general aspects) 30 Technical knowledge in materials and processes that is specific to flaws; i.e. flaws in 40 welds, castings, wrought products, etc.

Knowledge of the certification body’s qualification and certification system based on 10 this National Standard. This may be an open book examination.

General knowledge of at least four methods as required for level 2 and chosen by the 15 candidate from the methods given in Clause 1. These four methods shall comprise the _{for each test} principal method for which the certification is sought and three others which must _method include at least one volumetric method (UT or RT) _{(total 60)}

8.2.2 Main method examination

8.2.2.1 The main method examination shall be in writing and shall assess the candidate’s knowledge of the main method subjects using the minimum required number of questions shown in Table 8. Examination questions shall be selected from the certification body’s or authorized qualifying body’s current collection at the time of the examination.

Table 8 — Minimum required number of main method examination questions

Number of

Symbol Subject

questions c1 Level 3 knowledge relating to the test method. 30

c2 Application of the NDT method in the industrial sector 20

concerned, including the applicable codes, standards, and specifications. This may be an open book examination in relation to codes, standards and specifications.

c3 Drafting of one or more NDT procedures in the relevant —

sector. The applicable codes, standards and specifications shall be available to the candidate.

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In Canada, the number of questions on the main method examination are shown in Table 8A. There are more questions because Canada’s EMC sector covers several industrial sectors.

Table 8A — Number of main method examination questions

Number of

Symbol Subject

questions c1 Level 3 knowledge relating to the test method. 30

c2 Application of the NDT method in the industrial 40

sector concerned, including the applicable codes, _{(35 for} standards, and specifications. This may be an _RT-aviation) open book examination in relation to codes,

standards, and specifications.

c3 Drafting of one or more NDT procedures in the —

relevant sector. The applicable codes, standards, and specifications shall be available to the candidate.

8.2.2.2 Level 3 candidates not holding appropriate level 2 certification shall pass a relevant level 2 practical examination graded in accordance with 8.1.4 except that they need not draft an NDT instruction.

To be eligible for level 3 certification, candidates shall obtain a minimum grade of 70 % in the level 2 practical examination. In accordance with 8.2.3.2, the grade obtained in the level 2 practical examination is not used in the calculation of the level 3 composite grade.

8.2.3 Grading of level 3 qualification examinations

The grading of the basic and main method examinations shall be done separately. To be eligible for certification, a candidate shall pass both the basic and main method examinations.

8.2.3.1 Basic examination

To pass the basic examination, a candidate shall obtain a minimum grade of 70 %. 8.2.3.2 Main method examination

To pass the main method examination, a candidate shall obtain a minimum grade of 70 % in each part and a composite grade

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The composite grade Nc of the main method examination shall be calculated in accordance with the following formula:

Nc= nc1 + nc2 + nc3

3 where

nc1 is the grade for part c1 (see Table 8);

nc2 is the grade for part c2 (see Table 8);

nc3 is the grade for part c3 (see Table 8).

Candidates for radiography who did not previously satisfactorily complete the required X-ray and gamma-radiation safety examinations, as described in 8.1.1.3 and 8.1.1.4, must do so. The grades obtained in the radiation-safety examinations will not be used to calculate the composite grade.

8.3 Conduct of examinations

8.3.1 All examinations shall be conducted in examination centres established, approved and monitored by the certification body, either directly or through an authorized qualifying body.

8.3.2 At the examination, the candidate shall have in his possession valid proof of identity and an official notification of the examination, which shall be shown to the examiner or invigilator upon demand.

8.3.3 Any candidate who, during the course of the examination, does not abide by the examination rules or who perpetrates, or is an accessory to, fraudulent conduct shall be excluded from further participation.

8.3.4 Examinations shall be approved by an examiner. The examination shall be invigilated and evaluated by an examiner, or by one or more trained and authorized invigilators placed under the examiner’s responsibility.

8.3.5 An examiner shall be responsible for grading the examination in accordance with procedures established or approved by the certification body (see also 3.15).

8.3.6 With the approval of the certification body a candidate for a practical examination may use his own apparatus. The specimens used in training shall not be used as test specimens.

8.3.7 Level 3 examinations shall be set and graded by at least two examiners. 8.4 Re-examination

8.4.1 A candidate failing for reasons of unethical behaviour shall wait at least one year before reapplying.

8.4.2 A candidate who fails to obtain the pass grade required for certification may retake any of the examinations once, provided that the re-examination takes place no sooner than within 30 days, nor later than one year after the original examination. A certification body may use its discretion in allowing an earlier re-examination in the event that further training acceptable to the certification body is undertaken.