| SNT-TC-1A (2011) Recommended Practice No. Sen Personnel Qualification and Certification in ' Nondestructive Testing Mie usa enue astersRecommended Practice No. SNT-TCIA M4, 0} 1) Edition Personnel Qualification and Certification in Nondestructive Testing The American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc.copy? th © 2011 by The American Sosiety for Nondestructive Testing [Bzclusve of those papers that area work ofthe federal government and not subject to copyright ‘The American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc. (ASNT) isnot responsible for the authenticity or accuracy of information herein, Published opinions and statements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of ASNT. Products or services that are alvertised or mentioned do ‘ct carry the endorsement or recommendation of ASNT. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, by means electronic oF mechanical including photocopying, rezoning or otherwise, svithout the expressed prior written permission of The American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Ine. IRRSP, NDT Handbook, The NDT Technician and wwwasm.org are trademarks of The American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Ine. AOCP, ASNT, Level If Study Guide, Materials Evaluation, Nondestructive Testing Handbook, Research in Nondestructive Evaluation and RNDE ate registered trademarks of The American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Ine fist pring 08711 Eraa, if available for this printing, may be obtained from ASNI"s web ste, wwwesntore. san. 3: 978-1-STLIT-207-4 Printed in the United States of America PAblished by: The American Socioty for Nondestructive Testing, Inc 171 Artingate Lane Columbus, OH 432280518 owas org Ecited by: Cynthia M. Leeman, Educational Materials Supervisor Tizn Jones, Senior Manager of Publications ASNT Mission Statement [ASNT exists to create a safer wosld by promoting the profession and technologies af nondestructive testing ii, Recommended Practice SNT-TO-1A (2011)FOREWORD ‘This Recommended Practice establishes the general framework for a qualification and certification program. In addition, the document provides recommended educational, experience and training requirements for the different test methods, Supplementary documents include question and answer lists, which may be used in composing examinations for nondestructive testing personnel. ‘This recommended practice is not intended to be used as a strict specification. It is recognized, however, that contracts requite programs, which meet the intent of this document. For such contracts, purchaser and supplier must agree upon acceptability of an employer's program. The verb “should” has been used throughout this document 1o emphasize the recommendation presented herein. Tis the ‘employer's responsibility to address specific needs and to modify these guidelines as appropriate in a written practice. In the ‘employer's written practice, the verb “shall” isto be used in place of “should” to emphasize the employer's needs ‘The 2011 Edition of SNT-TC-1A is annotated so that users of the 2006 edition can quickly and easily locate new and updated material. The vertical lines in the margins of this document indicate that information in the text has been modified in some way. Inquiries related to this recommended practice should be directed to the chair of the SNT-TC-1A Interpretation Panel at the following address: ‘The American Society for Nondestructive Testing 1711 Arlingate Lane PO Box 28518 Columbus, Ohio 43228-0518 Recommended Practice SNT-TC-1A (2011) fiREVIEW COMMITTEE Publication and review of this Recommended Practice was under the direction of the SI-TC-1A Review Committee which is 2 committee of the Methods Division. The Methods Division reports to the Technical & Education Council of the American Society for Nondestructive Testing. Review Committee Members: Michael Ruddy, Chair Robert Cameron, Vice Chair Charlie Longo, Staff Secretary Mike Allgaier Walter Matulewicz Alfred Broz Michael MeDaniel Gene Chemma Ray Morasse James E. Cox Ricky Morgan David Culbertson William Norton, Jr Claude Davis ‘Matthew Patience Nat Faransso Bill Plumstead, Jr. Karl Fogleman Bill Plumstead, Sr. Darrell Harris Mark Pompe Gary Heath Bob Potter Keith R. Holt ‘Thom Schafer Daniel Irons Kirie Smart Morteza Jafari Marvin Tritam Jim Kelly Ray Tsukimura Ron Kruzic Roland Valdes Joseph Mackin Dave Vigne ‘Technical & Education Council: Kevin Smith, Chair Doran Kishoni, Vice Chait/Secretary iv. Recommended Practice SNT-T0-1A (2011)CONTENTS Foreword Review Committee Personnel Qualification and Certification in Nondestructive Testing 1 Scope 1 Definitions 1 Nondestructive Testing Methods 2 Levels of Qualification 2 Written Practice 2 Education, Training, and Experience Requirements for Initial Qualification 3 ‘Training Programs 3 Examinations 3 Certification 7 ‘Technical Performance Evaluation 7 Interrupted Service 7 Recertification 7 ‘Termination 7 Reinstatement 7 Table 6.3.1 A: Recommended Initial Training and Experience Levels 8 Table 6.3.1 B: Initial Training and Experience Levels for NDT Level II Limited Certifications 9 | ‘Table 8.3.4: Minimum Number of Examination Questions 10 Appendix i Example Questions — NDT Level [ and Level IL u Acoustic Emission Testing Method ul Electromagnetic Testing Method 12 | Alternating Current Field Measurement ‘Technique 12 : Eddy Current 1B Remote Field Testing 13 | Ground Penetrating Radar Testing Method 4 | Guided Wave Testing Method 15 Leak Testing Method 16 Bubble Leak Testing Method 16 Halogen Diode Detector Leak Testing Method 7 Mass Spectrometer Leak Testing Method 18 Pressure Change Measurement Leak Testing Method 18 Liquid Penetrant Testing Method 19 Magnetic Flux Leakage Testing Method 20 ; Magnetic Particle Testing Method 21 ‘Neutron Radiographic Testing Method. 2 Radiological Testing Method 23 | Radiographic Testing B Computed Radiography ‘Testing Method 24. | Computed Tomography Testing Method 4 Digital Radiography Testing Method 25 ‘Thermal/Infrared Testing Method %6 Ultrasonic Testing Method a Phased Array 28 ‘Time of Flight Diffraction 28 Vibration Analysis Testing Method 29 Visual Testing Method 30 Answers to Example Questions 32 SNT-TC-1A Interpretation Request Form 34 Recommended Practice SNT-TC-1A (2011) vvi Recommended Practice SNT-TC-1A (2011)10 20 Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-1A Personnel Qualification and Certification in Nondestructive Testing Scope 1.1 It is recognized that the effectiveness of nondestructive testing (NDT) applications depends upon the capabili- ties of the personnel who are responsible for, and perform, NDT. This Recommended Practice has been pre- pared to establish guidelines for the qualification and certification of NDT personnel whose specific jobs require appropriate knowledge of the technical principles underlying the nondestructive tests they perform, wit- ‘ess, monitor, or evaluate 1.2 This documnent provides guidelines for the establishment of a qualification and certffeation program. 1.3 These guidelines have been developed by The American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Inc, 0 aid employers in recognizing the essential factors to be considered in qualifying personnel engaged in any of the NDT methods listed in Section 3. 1.4 [tis recognized that these guidelines may not be appropriate for certain employers’ circumstances and/or appli- cations, In developing a written practice as required in Section 5, the employer should review the detailed ree- ‘ommendations presented herein and modify them, as necessary, to meet particular needs. Such modification ‘may alter but shall not eliminate basic provisions of the program such as training, experience, testing and recor~ ification. Supporting technical rationale for modification of detailed recommendations should be provided in ‘an Annex to the written practice. Definitions 2.1 Terms included in this document are defined as follows 2.1.1 Certification: written testimony of qualification. 2.12. Certifying Authority: the person or persons properly designated in the written practice to sign certifi cations on behalf of the employer. 213 Certifying Ageney: the employer of the personnel being certified. 2.14 Closed Book Examination: an examination administered without access to reference material except for materials supplied with or in the examination (See 8.7). 2.15 Comparable: being at an equivalent or similar level of NDT responsibi by the employer's NDT Level Il Documented: the condition of being in written form. 2.1.7 Employer: the corporate, private, or public entity, which employs personnel for wages, salary, fees, oF ‘other considerations, 2.18 Experience: work activities accomplished in a specific NDT method under the direction of qualified supervision including the performance of the NDT method and related activities but not including time spent in organized training programs, 2.1.9 Grading Unit: A Qualification Specimen can be divided into sections called grading units, which do not have to be equal length or be equally spaced. Grading units are unflawed or flawed and the percent- age of flawed/unflawed grading units required should be approved by the NDT Level IIL 2.1.10 Limited Certification: nondestructive test methods may be further subdivided into limited disciplines (oF techniques to meet specific employer’s needs; these are NDT Level II certifications, but toa limited scope. 2.1.11 Nondestructive Testing: « process that involves the inspection, testing, or evaluation of materials, ‘components and assemblies for materials’ discontinuities, properties and machine problems without fur- ther impairing or destroying the part's serviceability, Throughout this document the term NDT applies ‘equally to the NDT inspection methods used for material inspection, flaw detection or predictive main- tenance (PaM) applications. 2.1.12 Outside Agency: a company or individual who provides NDT Level III services and whose gualifica- tions to provide these services have been reviewed by the employer engaging the company or individ al, 2.1.13 Qualification: demonstrated skill, demonstrated knowledge, documented training, and documented experience required for personnel to properly perform the duties of a specific job. 2.1.14 Recommended Practice: 2 set of guidelines to assist the employer in developing uniform procedures {or the qualification and certification of NDT personnel to satisfy the employer's specific requirements. 2.115 Technique: A category within an NDT method; for example, ultrasonic thickness testing. and difficulty as determined Recommended Practice SNT-TC-1A (2011) 12.1.16 ‘Training: an organized program developed to impart the knowledge and skills necessary for qualification. 2.1.17 Written Practice: a written procedure developed by the employer that details the requirements for qualification and certification of their employees. 3.0 Nondestructive Testing Methods 3 ‘Qualification and certification of NDT personnel in accordance with this Recommended Practice is applicable to each of the following methods Acoustic Emission Testing Electromagnetic Testing Ground Penetrating Radar Guided Wave Testing Laser Testing Methods Leak Testing Liquid Penetrant Testing Magnetic Flux Leakage Magnetic Particle Testing Neutron Radiographic Testing Ratliological Testing ThermalInfrared Testing Ulwasonic Testing Vibration Analysis Visual Testing 4.0 Levels of Qualification 41 42 43 ‘There are three basic levels of qualification, The employer may subdivide these levels for situations where additional levels are deemed necessary for specific skills and responsibilities. ‘While in the process of being initially trained, qualified, and certified, an individual should be considered a tuainee. A trainee should work with a certified individual. The trainee should not independently conduct, inter pret, evaluate, or report the results of any NDT test ‘The three basic levels of qualification are as follows 43.1 NDT Level |. An NDT Level I individual should be qualified to properly perform specific calibrations, spevitie NDT, and specific evaluations for neceptance or rejection determinations according to written instructions and to record results. The NDT Level [ should receive the necessary instruction and super- vision from a certified NDT Level If or fl individual. 432. NDT Level Il, An NDT Level Il individual should be qualified to set up and calibrate equipment and to interpret and evaluate results with respect to applicable codes, standards, and specifications, The NDT Level II should be thoroughly familiar with the scope and limitations of the methods for which quali: fied and should exercise assigned responsiblity for on-the-job training and guidance of trainees and NDY Level 1 personnel. The NDT Level If should be able to organize and report the results of NDT tests, 433 NDF Level III. An NDT Level III individual should be capable of developi - qualifying a approv- ing procedures, establishing and approving techniques, interpreting codes, standards, specifications, and procedures; and designating the particular NDT methods, techniques, and procedures to be used. The NDT Level IIl should be responsible for the NDT operations for which qualified and assigned and should be capable of interpreting and evaluating results in terms of existing codes, standards, and speci- fications. The NDT Level III should have sufficient practical background in applicable materials, fabri- cation, and product technology to establish techniques and to assist in establishing acceptance criteria when none ate otherwise available. The NDT Level IIT should have general familiarity with other appropriate NDT methods, as demonstrated by an ASNT Level III Basic examination or other means, ‘The NDT Level Il, in the methods in which certified, should be capable of taining and examining NDT Level I and Il personnel for certification in those methods. 5.0 Written Practice SA 52 2 Recommended Practice SNT-TC-1A (2011) ‘The employer shall establish a writien practice for the control and sdministration af NDT personnel training, examination, and certification, ‘The employer's written practice should describe the responsibility of each level of certification for determining th the applicable codes, standards, specifications, the acceptability of materials or components in accordance and procedures,5.3 The employer's written practice should describe the training, experience, and examination requirements for ‘each level of certification by method and technique, 2s applicable 54 The employer's written practice should identify the test techniques w' scope of operations. 5.5. The employer’s written practice shall be reviewed and approved by the employers NDT Level IIL 5.6 The employer's written practice shall be maintained on file. in each test method applicable to its 640 Education, Training, and Experience Requirements for Initial Qualiffeation 6.1 Candidates for centification in NDT should have sufficient education, training, and experience to ensure quaifi- cation in those NDT’ methods in which they are being considered for certification. Documentation of prior cer- {ification may be used by an employer as evidence of qualification for comparable levels of certification. 62 Documented training and/or experience gained in positions and activities comparable to those of Levels 1, I andlor JIL prior to establishment of the employer's writen practice may be considered in satisfying the criteria of Section 6.3. 63. To be considered for cemification, a candidate should satisfy one ofthe following criteria forthe applicable NDT level 63.4 NDT Levels Vand 11 ‘Table 6.3.1 A lists the recommended training and experience hours 1o be considered by the employer in establishing writ practices for initial qualification of NDT Level I and Level Ik individual, Table 6.3.1 B lists initial vaining and experience hours which may be considered by the employer for specific limited applications as defined in the employer's writen practice i Limited certifications should apply to individuals who do not meet the full training and experience of | t ‘Table 6.3.1 A. Limited cenfications issued in any method should be approved by the NDT Level I tnlabcumened inthe coiaton eos | | 632 NDT Level Ill y 63.2.1 Have graduated from a minitoum four-year college or university curriculum with a degree in cengincering or science, plus one additional year of experience beyond the NDT Level I requirements in NDT in an assignment at least comparable to that of an NDT Level I in the applicable NDT method(s). of 63.2.2. Have completed with passing grades at last two years of engineering or science study at a Uni versity college, or technical schoo. plus two additional years of experience beyond the NDT | Level Il sequirements in NDT in aa assignment at least comparable to that of NDT Level Il in the applicable NDT methods), or: 63.23 Have four years experience beyond the NDT Level Il requirements in NDT in an assignment at | least comparable to that of an NDT Level IL in the applicable NDT method), ‘The above NDT Level II requirements may be partially replaced by experience as a certified NDT | Level IL or by assignments at least compasable to NDT Level II as defined in the employer's written practice. 7.0 Training Programs 7.1 Personnel being considered for initial certification should complete sufficient organized training. The organized. {raining may include instructor led training, self-study, virtual instructor led training, computer based training ‘or web based training. Computer based training and web based training should track hours and content of train ing with student examinations in accordance with 7.2. The sufficiently organized taining shall be such as to censure the student is thoroughly familiar with the principles and practices of the specified NDT method related to the level of certification desired and applicable to the processes to be used and the products to be tested. Al ‘raining programs should be approved by the responsible NDT Level II. 7.2 The training program should include sufficient examinations to ensure understanding of the necessary information, 73. Recommended training course outlines and references for NDT Levels I, [1, and Ill personinel, which may be used as technical source material, are contained in ANSUASNT CP-105~ Topical Outlines for Qualification of Nondestructive Testing Personnel 1 7.4 The employer who purchases outside training services is responsible for assuring that such services meet the | requirements of the employer's written practice. 80 Examinations | E1 Administuation and Grading 8.11. AnNDT Level shouldbe responsible forthe administtion and grading of examinations specified | in Section 8.3 through 8.8 for NDT Level II, or other Level Il personnel. The administration and Recommended Practice SNT-TO-1 (2011) 3grading of examinations may be delegated to a qualified representative of the NDT Level IIL and so. recorded. A qualified representative of the employer may perform the actual administration and gradin of NDT Level IIT examinations specified in 8.8, B.LL.1 To be designated as a qualified representative of the NDT Level III for the administration and grading of NDT Level I and Level II personnel qualification examinations, the designee should have documented, appropriate instruction by the responsible NDT Level Hin the proper administration and grading of qualification examinations prior to conducting and gra ing independent qualification examinations for NDT personnel, Additionally, the Practical exam should be administered by a person certified in the applicable NDT method as NDT Level Tor II 8.1.2 For NDT Level I and II personnel, a composite grade should be determined by simple averaging of the results of the general, specific, and practical examinations described below. For NDT Level IIT person- nel, the composite grade should be determined by simple averaging of the results of the basic, method and specific examinations described below, 8.13 Examinations administered by the employer for qualification should result in a passing composite grade of at least 80 percent, with no individual examination having a passing grade less than 70 percent. 8.14 When an examination is administered and graded for the employer by an outside ageney and the out- side agency issues grades of pass or fail only, on a certified report, then the employer may accept the pass grade as 80 percent for that particular examination. 8.1.5 The employer who purchases outside services is responsible for ensuring that the examination services ‘meet the requirements of the employer's written practice. 8.1.6 Inno ease should an examination be administered by one’s self or by a subordinate. 82 Vision Examinations 8.2.1 Near-Vision Acuity. The examination should ensure natural or corrected near-distance acuity in at least ‘one eye such that the applicant is capable of reading a minimum of Jacger Number 2 or equivalent type and size letter atthe distance designated on the chart but not less than 12 inches (30.5 cm} on a stan dard Jaezer test chart. The ability 10 perceive an Ortho-Rater minimum of § or similar test pattern also acceptable. This should be administered annually. 8.2.2 Color Contrast Differentiation. The examination should demonstrate the capability of distinguishing and differentiating contrast among colors or shades of gray used in the method as determined by the ‘employer. This should be conducted upon initial certification and at five-year intervals thereafter 8.2.3 _ Vision examinations expire om the last day of the month of expiration. 83. General (Written — for NDT Levels I and 1D) 83.1 The general examinations should address the basic principles of the applicable method, 8.3.2 In preparing the examinations, the NDT Level III should select or devise appropriate questions cover- ing the applicable method to the degree required by the employer's written practice, 8.33. Sce the Appendix for example questions. 8.3.4 The minimum number of questions that should be given is shown in Table 8.3.4 8.4 Specific (Writen ~ for NDT Levels I and I1) 84.1 ‘The specific examination should address the equipment, operating procedures, and NDT techniques that the individual may encounter during specific assignments to the degree required by the employer's written practice. 84.2 The specific examination should also cover the specifications or codes and acceptance criteria used in the employer’s NDT procedures. 8.43. The minimum number of questions that should be given is shown in Table 8.3.4. 85. Practical (for NDT Level I and 11) 8.5.1 ‘The candidate should demonstrate Familiarity with and ability to operate the necessary NDT equipment, record, and analyze the resultant information to the degree required. 85.2 Atleast one flawed specimen ot component should be tested and the results of the NDT analyzed by the candidat. 85.3 The description of the specimen, the NDT procedure, including check points, and the re ‘examination should be documented. 854 NDT Level I Practical Examination. Proficiency should be demonstrated in performing the applicable NDT on one or more specimens or machine problems approved by the NDT Level IIT and in evaluating the results to the degree of responsibility as described in the employer's written practice. At east ten (10) different checkpoints requiring an understanding of test variables and the employer's procedural requirements should be included in this practical examination, The candidate should detect all discon huities and conditions specified by the NDT Level Ill Is of the 4. Recommended Practice SNT-TC-1A (2011)Note: While it is normal to score the practical on a percentile basis, practical examinations should con- ; ‘ain check points that failure to successfully complete will result in failure of the examination 855 NDT Level Il Practical Examination. Proficiency should be demonstrated in selecting and performing the applicable NDT technique within the method and interpreting and evaluating the results on one or ‘more specimens or machine problems approved by the NDT Level IIL. At least ten (10) different check points requiring an understanding of NDT variables and the employer's procedural requirements should be included in this practical examination, The candidate should detect all discontinuities and conditions specified by the NDT Level II ‘Note: While itis normal to score the practical on a percentile basis, practical examinations should con- tain check points that failure to successfully complete will result in failure of the examination, 8.6 Sample questions for general examinations are presented in the separate question booklets that can be obtained from ASNT Headquarters. These questions are intended as examples only and should not be used verbatim for ‘qualification examinations. The following is a list of the booklets: ‘Test Method Question Booklets, Acoustie Emission Testing G Electromagnetic Testing E 41. Altemating Current Field Measurement FA 2. Bddy Current EE 3. Remote Field Testing ER Ground Penetrating Radar Gps Guided Wave Testing Gwe Laser Testing, 1. Profilometry Lee 2. Holography/Shearography LHe Leak Testing 1. Bubble Test HB 2. Pressure Change Measurement HP 3, Halogen Diode Leak Test HH 4, Mass Spectrometer Test HM Liquid Penetrant ‘Testing D Magnetic Flux Leakage Testing ME* Magnetic Particle Testing B Neutron Radiographic Testing F Raciological Radiographic Testing 1, Radiographie Testing A 2. Computed Radiography Testing AAY 3, Computed Tomography Testi AB 4, Digital Radiography Testing Ace ‘Thermal/lnfrared Testing i Ultrasonic Testing cl Vibration Analysis Ke Visval Testing I * In course of preparation 8.7 Additional Written, Specific and Practical Examination Criteria 87.1 NDT Level I, 11, and Ill Written Examinations 87.1.1 AIL NDT Level I, II, and Ill written examinations should be closed-book except that necessary data, such as graphs, tables, specifications, procedures, codes, ctc., may be provided with or in the examination. Questions wilizing such reference materials should require an understanding. of the information rather than merely Jocating the appropriate answer. ATI questions used for NDT Level I and Level If examinations should be approved by the responsible NDT Level I | Recommended Practice SNT-TC-1A (2011) 58.41.12 A valid endorsement on an ACCP Level Il certificate fulfills the corresponding examination criteria described in paragraphs 8.3 and 8.5 for each applicable NDT method 81.13 Avalid ASNT NDT Level Il eerificate may be accepted by the employer's written practice as fulfiling the General examination criteria deseribed in paragraph 8.3 for each applicable method. 8.72 NDT Level and Il Specific Examinations 8.1.2.1 The employer may delete the specific examination ifthe candidate has a valid ACCP or ASNT NDT Level II centficate in the methodsindustral sector and if documented experience exists to permit such 873 Practical Examinations 8.73.1 Successful completion of an ACCP Level Il general hands-on practical examination may be considered as fulfilling the requirements of paragraph 8 5 8.1.3.2 For the Film Interpretation Limited Certification, the Practical Examination should consist of review and grading of at least 20 images. 8.1.3.3 Phased Anay and Time of Flight Diffraction Practical Examination. Plawed samples used for practical examinations should be representative ofthe components andlor configurations that the candidates would be testing under this endorsement and approved by the NDT Level Il. 8.7.4 ‘The NDT Level IM is responsible to ensuce that ifthe ACCP andl ASNT NDT Level I specific and Practical examinations are used by the employer, as stated in 8.7.2 and 8.7.3.1, the requirements of 84.1, 84.2 and 8.5.5 are satisfied. 88 NDT/PAM Level Ill Examinations 88.1 Basie Examinations 88.1.1 NDT Basic Examination (required only onee when more than one method examination is taken). The minimum number of questions tha should be given is as follows: 88.1.1 Fifteen (15) questions relating to understanding the SN7-TC-1A document 88.112 Twenty 20) questions relating to applicable materials, fabrication, and product tech- nology 88.1.1.3 Twenty (20) questions that are similar to published NDT Level Il questions for other appropriate NDT methods. 88.1.2 PUM Basie Examination (required only once when moce than one method examination is ‘aken). The minimum number of questions that should be given is as follows. 88.1.2] Fifteon (15) questions relating to understanding the SNT-TC-/A document 88.1.2.2 Twenty (20) questions relating to applicable machinery technology I 8.8.12.3 Thirty (0) questions that are similar to published NDT Level Il questi appropriate PaM methods. 88.2 Method Examination (for each metho). 882.1 Thiny (30) questions relating to fundamentals and principles that are similar to published | ASNT NDT Level II] questions for cach method, and $8.22 Fifteen (15) questions relating to application and establishment of techniques and procedures | that are similar to the published ASNT NDT Level [1] questions for each method, and 8.8.23 ‘Twenty (20) questions relating to capability for interpreting codes, standards, and specifications relating to the method, 883 Specific Examination (for each method). 8.8.3.1 Twenty (20) questions relating to specifications, equipment, techniques, and procedures appli- «cable to the employers product(s) and methods employed and to the adiinistration of the employer's written practice. 883.2 The employer may delete the specific examination if the candidate has a valid ASNT NDT. Level II or ACCP Professional Level III certificate in the method and if documented evidence of experience exists, including the preparation of NDT procedures to codes, standards, or spee- ifications and the evaluation of test results 8.8.4 A valid endorsement on an ASNT NDT Level II certificate fulfills the examination criteria described in 88.1 and 8.8.2 for each applicable NDT method, 88.5 A valid endorsement of an ACCP Professional Level IL certificate fulfills the examination criteria Gescribed in 8.8.1 and 8.8.2 for each applicable NDT method. 89 Reexamination ‘Those failing to attain the required grades should wait at least thitty (30) days or receive suitable additional taining as determined by the NDT Level III before reexamins 8 Recommended Practice SNT-TC-1A (2011)99 100 : : ; Ei i | 10 120 13.6 140 Certification 9.1 Certification of all NDT Levels of NDT personnel is the responsibilty of the employer. 9.2. Cenlfication of NDT personnel should be based on demonstration of satisfactory qualification in accordance With Sections 6, 7, and 8, as described in the employer's written practice At the option of the employer, an outside azeney may be engaged to provide NDT Level III services. In such instances, the responsibility of certification of the employees should be retained by the employer. | 9. 9.4 Personnel certification records should be maintained on file by the employer for the duration specified in the employers written practice and should include the following: 9.4.1 Name of cesified individual 9.42 Level of certification and NDT method. 9.43 Educational background and experience of certified individuals 9.44 Statement indicating satisfactory completion of traning in aecordance withthe employes’s writen practice 9.45 Results of the vision examinations prescribed in 8.2 for the current certification period. 9.4.6 Current examination copy(ies) or evidence of successful completion of examinations. 9.4.7 Other suitable evidence of satisfactory qualifications when such qualifications are used in liew ofthe specific examination preseribed in 8.8.3.2 ot as preseribed in the employer's written practice. 9.48 Composite grade(s) or suitable evidence of grades. 949 Signature of the NDT Level II that verified qualifications of candidate for certification, | 9.4.10 Dates of certification andor recertification and the dates of assignments to NDT. 9.4.11 Conification expiration date 9.4.12 ‘Signature of employer's certifying authority ‘Technical Performance Evaluation 10.1 NDT personne! may be reexas extended or revoked. 10.2. Periodically, as defined in the employer's written practice, NDT Level I and II personnel should be reevaluated by the NDT Level III administering a practical examination. The practical examination should follow the for mat and guidelines described in section 8.5. ined any time at the dis cretion of the employer and have their certificates Interrupted Service 11.1 ‘The employer's written practice should include rules covering the types and duration of interrupted service that requires reexamination and recertification. 11.2. ‘The written practice should specify the requirements for reexamination and/or recertification for the interrupted Recertification 12.1 All levels of NDT personnel shall be recertified periodically in accordance with one of the following criteria: 12.1.1 Evidence of continuing satisfactory technical performance. 12.1.2 Reexamination in those portions of the examinations in Section 8 deemed necessary by the employer's NDT Level Ill 12.2 The recommended! maximum recertification intervals are 5 years for all certification fevels. Certifications expire on the last day of the month af expiration. ‘Termination 15. The employers certification shall be deemed revoked when employment is teminated. 152. An NDT Level I, Level Hl, or Level Il whose certification has been terminated may be cette ro the former | NDT level by « new employer based on examination, as desribed in Section 8, provide all ofthe following conditions are met to the new employer's satisfaction: 13.2.1 The employee has proof of prior certification. 1322 Te employee was working in the capacity to which certified within six (6) months of termination 1323 The employes is being reerified within sx (6) months of termination 1324 Prior to being examined for erifestion, employees not meeting the above requirements should receive acditonal taining 2s deemed appropriate by the NDT Level I Reinstatement 14.1 An NDT Level [, Level II, o Level II whose certification has been terminated may be reinstated to the former | NDT level, without a new examination, provided all of the following conitions are met: 14.1 The employer has maintained the personnel cerification records required in section 9.4, 14.1.2 The employee's certification did not expire during termination 14.13 ‘The employee is being reinstated within six (6) months of termination. Rocommonded Practice SNT-TC-1A (2011) 7Table 6.3.1 A: Recommended Initial Training and Experience Levels ‘ransnaton i = Fapeiinee Mahed” [NDT Lave! Technique Talons mam Ree a House tastes | Na Awa eg | z a0 Ea i 7 oa a | Ache | 31 Ea ; a o omen FE ay Gewa 2 2 a r a oo = i ae 2 2 a Go eatag Pt : 7 ee ES 4 z . a 1 40. 240. 460, ae : a a = 1 Pilon 7 = io ae 1 Holography! ca 210 00 | ste, = a sy cea ee 2 2 < 7 Pressure Change =. = eo a : = . ae 1 Halogen Diode a 105. 200 a = & 230, 50 ; 7 = ] i] sense | 20 2 ; zi = 3 Ugatrean ‘ = ra 1 16, 70, 130. epee estar 6 = ra 1 7 se a i * i oa 1 [ 2 i i 0. 1680 2400 t 7 io a 1 pena ‘2 20 ‘an Tonga . So . ‘Raddivke Radiography 0 630 1200 ict Computed a0 210 400, taney o ® Sr Sear o 7 a ray a a = 7 7 saat ED 20 ‘1800 i a = i a 7 ar ‘Ultrannaies “Fine of Flighe o Diffraction “0 160, wa i ma % i ition Anal t Ea 420, 800. Vases [—h = s on i = Lo nl i = oes © Te eat cotati he expe wd consi of tne at NOT Level ot qvakat fa pon i being qualified directly to NDT eel Se aa NDT Level he expe (hh Meth and Tal NDT sal of ee oe ‘NDP Level J and "eve Uae te wining shoul consist ofthe sum of the out foe NDT Lenel ott 8 Recommended Practice SNT-TC-1A (2011)30 For NDT Level I cenificaon, the experience should consis ofthe sun ofthe hours fr NDT Level and Level pls tbe pion time in 6.3.2 ts applicable, The formal isting should consist of the NDT Level} and Lavel I taining, pus any adiional formal waning as defined i the ‘employer's writen pratce [sted ining hours may be ated as describe inthe employe’ writen practice depending onthe candidate's actual education love, eg. gram sar school, college graduate in engineering. “Training sbotld be ouined ia the empoyacswelten practice, Magnetic Pail taining ous may be counted towards Magnetic Flux Leakage training hours as define in employer's writen practice. 5.0 Iran vidal cunt coed in an ET hasan cou Comat was wed to met he inl questions nt etnias, the ‘tink aig boro aly in ateher ET taco athe some ND Level my be reed po prcent if so defined te employers ‘rien proce, fay inal 6 coi nan ET thai the minimum apesene to qua for enor ET fechnigne mth sue vel oro i neu lovely be ede by ope 0 pecen so dnd inte employers writen patie. (60. Wale fling tet NDT expren’s equa exeince may be gare Inne han ae (1) tthe, owes he mini Ros ms be tnt fer cach tod 70 Hanindvidliscurely ccf ina Redo tne sl cs frst wa itr th nil qulieons in tah, ‘be minimum aca ning has ally aces ehaoe a th same evel shold he 24 bos (of which tat 16 oar shoul be evince, The nig online hot bs eine nthe epee witen act Tn da ceri in nies the minimum alta expeeace ere got for nother echoigue a ese level sould be 24 hots defined inthe employer's wi ten pcties 80 Ti of Fgh Diticon and Pinel Ara requis competion of evel Lan It Usone Teng ning nd expense a tenis Table 6.3.1 B: Initial Training and Experience Levels for NDT Level It Limited Certifications Examina Limited ‘Technician’s Formal pe wel Method | Certification | Starting Point | Training saat a (Hours) Film Non-Radiographer ; Radiographic Interpretation , 220! Filmy ; ous RP Level f 4 220) Digital Thickness Measurement Trainee 8 40 tas Coomee rt ‘Acsean Thickness eae ‘Trainee 24 175 Regus praca eview of 1000 rasiogrphs Recommended Practice SNT-TC-1A (2011) 930 For NDT Level I cenificaon, the experience should consis ofthe sun ofthe hours fr NDT Level and Level pls tbe pion time in 6.3.2 ts applicable, The formal isting should consist of the NDT Level} and Lavel I taining, pus any adiional formal waning as defined i the ‘employer's writen pratce [sted ining hours may be ated as describe inthe employe’ writen practice depending onthe candidate's actual education love, eg. gram sar school, college graduate in engineering. “Training sbotld be ouined ia the empoyacswelten practice, Magnetic Pail taining ous may be counted towards Magnetic Flux Leakage training hours as define in employer's writen practice. 5.0 Iran vidal cunt coed in an ET hasan cou Comat was wed to met he inl questions nt etnias, the ‘tink aig boro aly in ateher ET taco athe some ND Level my be reed po prcent if so defined te employers ‘rien proce, fay inal 6 coi nan ET thai the minimum apesene to qua for enor ET fechnigne mth sue vel oro i neu lovely be ede by ope 0 pecen so dnd inte employers writen patie. (60. Wale fling tet NDT expren’s equa exeince may be gare Inne han ae (1) tthe, owes he mini Ros ms be tnt fer cach tod 70 Hanindvidliscurely ccf ina Redo tne sl cs frst wa itr th nil qulieons in tah, ‘be minimum aca ning has ally aces ehaoe a th same evel shold he 24 bos (of which tat 16 oar shoul be evince, The nig online hot bs eine nthe epee witen act Tn da ceri in nies the minimum alta expeeace ere got for nother echoigue a ese level sould be 24 hots defined inthe employer's wi ten pcties 80 Ti of Fgh Diticon and Pinel Ara requis competion of evel Lan It Usone Teng ning nd expense a tenis Table 6.3.1 B: Initial Training and Experience Levels for NDT Level It Limited Certifications Examina Limited ‘Technician’s Formal pe wel Method | Certification | Starting Point | Training saat a (Hours) Film Non-Radiographer ; Radiographic Interpretation , 220! Filmy ; ous RP Level f 4 220) Digital Thickness Measurement Trainee 8 40 tas Coomee rt ‘Acsean Thickness eae ‘Trainee 24 175 Regus praca eview of 1000 rasiogrphs Recommended Practice SNT-TC-1A (2011) 9Table 8.3.4: Minimum Number of Examination Questions dial General Specific Level I | Level 1 | Level I | Level If iacnamiareg ices ee fe inact I ame Sa Aenas oa Se State sea ta 37a oe coat ne Bubble Test 20 20, AS 15. Asolue ais Lak Ta ecae Gag | at} 4} ie ene ne eee 37a eS [ Magnetic Flux Leakage 20 20 20 15 ones ape} +S ean aa | nea a—|~s 3 +2 Radiological Testing: Radiography Testing Radiographic Film Interpretation = Non-Radiographer Radiographic Film Interpretation - Radiographer (Certified RT NDT Level 1) ‘Computed Radiography Testing Computed Tomography Testing Digital Radiography Testing ‘Themmal/nfrared Testing | Ultrasonic Testing: “Time of Flight Diffraction Phased Arra Digital Thiekness Measurement 0 (umeric outpat only) A-scan Thickness Measurement Vibration Analysis Visual Testing 40 40. 40 a 0. 40. 40. 40. 40 40 8/8] 38/3/8 as s/S 8 38 10 Recommended Practice SNT-TC-1A (2011)APPENDIX Example Questions Level | and Level Il “The parpose of this appendix is to provide a guideline for the preparation of the General, Level I and Level IL written examinations. Extensive examples of representative questions for degree of diffi ty, type, ete., are provided in separate {question booklets, which can be obtained from ASNT Headquarters. These questions are intended as examples only and should not be used verbatim for qualification examinations Note: Al questions and answers should be referenced to a recognized source. Acoustic Emission Testing Method Level A qualitative description of the sustained signal level produced by rapidly occurring acoustic emission events is the accepted definition for: 1, burst emission 'b, acoustic emission signature acoustic emission signal d. continuous emission. ‘Attenuation of a wave is best defined by which statement? ‘a, a decrease in frequency with distance traveled bb, a decrease in amplitude with distance traveled ‘c.adecrease in wave speed with distance traveled. 4. a change in direction as a funetion of time 3. ‘The number of times the acoustic emission signal exceeds a preset threshold during any selected portion of a testis called the: ‘a, acoustic emission response b. acoustic emission count &. acoustic emission count rate 4. acoustic emission energy Levd IL 1, When detecting impulsive acoust jon signals on large objects, the peak of the signals normally decreases with increasing distance from the source, This alteration, dependent on distance, must be explained by: ‘a, absorption: ic. the clastic pulse gradually converts into heat . dispersion: ie, the pulse gradually spreads out in time because the different waves involved travel with different velocities cc. the geometric factors: i¢., the energy in the pulse is distributed into ever-larger volumes 4, all of the above 2. Which of the following factors will tend to produce low-amplitude acoustic emission response during a tensile test? a. low temperature b. high strain rate cc. plastic deformation 4d, crack propagation Recommended Practice SNT-TC-1A (2011) 113 1 ‘The Kaiser effect is: 8. valid only when testing composites ba physical law of nature that is never violated ©. not applicable when an rms recording is being made d._ the absence of detectable acon on until previously applied stress levels are exceeded Electromagnetic Testing Method Alternating Current Field Measurement Technique Level I ‘What isthe medium between an ACFM probe and a metal surface when operating in ax? a. an electric current be air cc. magnetic field d. none of the above For which of the following inspection requirements could you not normally use ACFM for defect detection? 4. fatigue cracks in welded joints of high strength stecl b. subsurface cracks in welded joints of mild steel Inspection for cracks in a weld of high strength steel under paint coating 4d. surface fatigue in mild steel welds 3. A fatigue crack perpendicular to the induced current wil cause the induced current to: disperse from the contral area of the crack and concentrate around the ends . disperse from the ends of the crack and concentrate in the central area, ©. stop flowing in the part 4. inerease in velocity Level II 1. Puting an ACEM weld inspection, the measurement of crack depth requires the following information: ‘a. the frequency of the inspection | . the length of the erack ©. the depth of penetration of the AC field dL all of the above ‘What effect would you expect ifthe cols in an ACEM probe were stall and closer together? a. no effect b, improved detection of smaller defects ¢. improved sizing on larger defects 4d. improved signal to noise ration ‘The Bx magnetic field can best be described as: 4. parallel to the plate surface and perpendicular to the current flow: . perpendicular to the weld ©. parallel to the plate surface and parallel to the current flow 4. perpendicular to the plate surface and parallel to the current flow: 12 Recommended Practice SNT-TC-1A (2011)Eddy Current Levelt 1. The impedance of an eddy current test coil will increase if the: 8, test frequency increases . inductive reactance of the coil decreases inductance of the coil decreases 4. resistance of the coil decreases 2. Which of the following test frequencies would proxtuce eddy currents ith the largest depth of penetration? a. 100 Hz b, 10 kHz ce. 1MHz 10 MHz ‘To generate measurable eddy currents in a test specimen, the specimen must be: a. aconductor b. an insulator cc. either a conductor or an insulator da ferromagnetic material Level Tt 1. The fill factor when a 1.26 em (0.5 in.) diameter bar is inserted in a 2.54 em (1 in.) diameter coil is 015 (50 percent) 0.75 (75 pereent) 1.0 (100 percent) 0.25 (25 percent) b, @ 2, If the characteristic frequency (f,) of a material is 125 He, the test frequency required to give an fif, ratio of 10 would be: a. 125He >, 1252 ©. 125 kHz. d, 12.5 kHz 3. For age-hardened aluminum and titanium alloys, changes in hardness are indicated by changes in ‘a. retentivity b. permeability fe. conductivity 4d. magnetostrietio Remote Field Testing Level I 1, The dominant electromagnetic energy distribution process in RFT is said to be: fa, reflected impedance . through-transmissior ¢. piezoelectric energy conversion 4d. magnetic motive force Recommended Practice SNT-TO-1A (2011) 13.na properly designed RFT probe, the detector coil is positioned in the: a. direct field zone b. wansition zone c. remote field zone 4, junction between remote field 2one and transition zone 3. ‘The zone next to the “near zone” is called the: a. transition zone b. normal zone ‘c. near field extension zone 4. remote field zone Level II 1, Inthe remote field zone with distance the magnetic field distribution decays: a. linearly . exponentially ©. logarithmically 4. an then increases with distance 2. The exciter and the receiver coil/eils in a remote field probe are separated by a distance greater than tube diameter. a. twice b. three times ce. the same 4. none of the above — the 3. Frequencies selected for RET inspection are: higher than used in Eddy Current b. lower than used in Eddy Current ¢. carefully selected and must never be changed during an inspection . none of the above Ground Penetrating Radar Testing Method Level I 1. The most common form of GPR measurement is: 4. using a single transceiver device similar to equipment used in shear wave UT . by deploying a transmitier and a receiver in fixed geometty over the surface €. microwave propagation through a constant time vector 4. inspection for landmines ‘What are the key wave field properties for GPR? ‘a, time, distance and velocity reflection, refraction and direction of travel velocity, attenuation and EM impedance ‘antenna size, shape and angle of incidence 3. Blectromagnetic waves separate into two independent components, What are they? a, transverse electric field and transverse magnetic field b. resolution zone and refraction zone c. high impedance and low impedance 4d. focused enerey and attenuation 14 Recommended Practice SNT-TC-1A (2011)Level IT 1 ‘The ratio of the largest receivable signal and the minimal detectable signal is called the: ‘a. system detection factor 1b, peak performance ratio. ec. dynamic range. 4, maximum depth of detection What is gating? a, Armethod of expanding the depth of penetration by viewing only a portion of the total signal. b. The ability to control the shape of the transmitted signal. cc. Amethod of reducing the signal bandwidth, 4. Timing the transmit and receiver signals to avoid detrimental effects from strong signals 3. Why is dewowing important? a. Ttacts as a biomonitor. b. Ithelps to produce a stable image of unstable soils ¢. Itallows positive and negative color filling tobe used inthe recorded trac. a. Iris generally used fo improve section resolution and create more spatial realists, Guided Wave Testing Method Level I 1. ‘The velocity of guided waves depends on: the material properties b. the boundary consitions of the component or part . the dimensions of the component or part, 4. all ofthe above 2. Which of the following is a propagating guided wave mode in pipe: bulk compression wave . bulk shear wave ©. torsion wave 4. all of the above 3. Guided wave testing of long lengths of pipe 8, is used to measure remaining wall thickness bb. cam determine the change in pipe wall cross section . is used to measure the exact length of any wall loss can determine the exact geometry of any eorrosion Level It 1. How are guided wave testing results typically calibrate: ‘using a target reflector (flat bottomed hole) machined in calibration pipe of the same diameter and thickness calibration is not required for GWT using an assumed amplitude and known reflectors such as welds 4. the results are always calibrated using flange reflections ‘The dispersion curves for guided waves in steel pipes are MOST influenced by: a, changes to the boundary conditions bb. changes to the material properties of steel ¢. temperature chany d. high pressure gas products Focommended Practice SNT-TC-1A (2011) 183. Which of the following is a guided wave? a. rayleigh waves b. flexural waves c. torsional waves 4. all of the above Leak Testing Method Bubble Leak Testing Method Level I |. Before performing a vacuum box leak test, which of the following should be checked for requited calibration? a, leak-detector solution b. evacuation device or equipment c. lighting equipment 4d. pressure (or vacuum) gage 2. Which factor can most affect the sensitivity attainable by a pressute bubble leak test? operator alertness and technique ». size and shape of the test specimen cc. time of day testing is performed 4d. number of test technicians 3. The leters “psia” mean: 8. pressure referred to National Institute of Standards and Technology's absolute pressure . _pascals per square inch absolute pressure standard in absolute units d. pounds per square inch absolute Level IL 1. Which of the fotlowing directly determines the size ofthe bubble formation when testing using the bubble test method? 8, method of application of bubble solution b. ambient temperature and barometric pressure ©. amount of leakage from a defect or leak size of the test specimen ‘When a vacuum gage is marked with a range of 0-30 with the notation “vacuum” on the face, the units of measurement are: 4, inches of mercury . pounds per square inch ©. centimeters of vacuum, dd. feet of water 5. ‘The type of leaks that are most likely to go undetected during a bubble leak test are ‘8. very small leaks and very large leaks b, leaks occurring at welded joints ©. comer-configuration joints 4. all of the above 16 Recommended Practice SNT-TC-1A (2011)} : : Halogen Diode Detector Leak Testing Method Lev E ‘Good operating practice dictates that the period of time to allow for warm-up of the halogen diode detector prior to calibrating is ‘a. 30 minutes b, 15 minutes ©. hour as recommended by the manufecturer While adjusting a reservoir-type variable-halogen standard leak, the operator accidentally vents the gas from the only standard leak available. Which of the following actions would quickly resolve the problem? a. Replace the standard leak. . Replace the cylinder in the standard leak. ce. Recharge the standard leak. . Send the standard leak to the manufacturer for recharging, While performing a halogen-diode detector test the leak detector becomes difficult to zero, and the pointer on the leak rate meter repeatedly swings up scale. The most likely cause of the problem could be the use of too high a sensi- tivity range, a shorted clement, un excessive heater voltage, or: a. pooraicilow ba sensing element that is too new ©. ahigh halogen background da faulty leak-rate meter Level II 1, Most leaks detected during a halogen sniffer test could have been detected and usually can be verified by: a bubble leak test ‘an ultrasonic examinatio «a visual examination ‘a pressure change test peer the halogen diode detector: ‘The presence of small traces of halogen vapors ‘a. increases the emission of negative ions decreases the emission of positive ions c._inereases the emission of positive ions dd. decreases the emission of negative ions ‘A halogen standard leak of a certain size precluces a known signal on a halogen leak detector. To receive this same intensity signal on the instrument during the test of an object containing a 2 percent by volume halogen-air mixture, the size of the leak in the object causing the signal would theoretically have to be at least times larger than the standard Teak, a 20 b. 50 40 a. 10 Recommended Practice SNT-TO-1A (2011) 17Mass Spectrometer Leak Testing Method Level I 1, The sensitivity of a mass spectrometer leak detection system is the mass flow rate of tracer gas: a. that gives @ maximum measurable signal bb. that gives a minimum measurable signal cc. at standard temperature and pressure d. imaleak 2. The diffusion pump and mechanical fore pump in a mass spectrometer leak detection system a. use the same type of oil b._ use different types of oil €. operate using the same motor d. use the same principle of operation 3. The helium mass spectrometer detector-probe pressure-test technique is: 4. a quantitative test b. a qualitative test ca semiautomatic test none of the above Level II 1. Atorris defined as: a. 1427 psia b. 1mm of Hg ©. 1/760 of a standard atmosphere d. 760 mm of Hg ‘When conducting helium mass spectrometer test of a vacuum vessel in the pressure range of 10+ to 10 mm Hg, which type gage could be used to measure the pressure? a. alphatron gage b. thermionic ionization gage cc. pirani gage 4d. thermocouple gage 3. Helium standard leaks in the range of 106 to 10-1 atm. cefs are known in a. reservoir standard leaks b. capillary standard leaks c. permeation standard leaks 4. adjustable standard leaks Pressure Change Measurement Leak Testing Method Level I 1. A pressure of 66.0 psig, in terms of absolute pressure at sea level and standard teraperature, would be approximately a. 960 psia b. 80.7 psia ©. 513 psia 36.0 psia 18 Recommended Practice SNT-TO-1A (2011)2. When conducting # long-duration pressure change test, itis necessary lo measure absolute pressure or gage pressure pphis barometric pressure because the barometric pressure will: ‘a. always fall b. always tise c. remain constant 4. tend to vary 3. Which one of the following is the correct relationship for converting temperature in degrees Rankin (°R) to tempera- ture in degrees Kelvin (KY? a. K=(59)°R b. K=()9)°R 4273 ce. K=460+°R @ K=273R Level IL 1. When a system’s internal dry bulb's intemal temperature and, in turn, total pressure, inerease during a pressure ‘change leakage-rate test, the water vapor pressure in the system under test would normally: a. increase >, remain the same fe. decrease 4. oscillate 2. Fora pneumatically pressurized constant-volume system at an internal temperature of 27 °C, what approximate per- centage change in the system absolute pressure can be expected for a system internal temperature change of 1 °C? ‘a, 3 percent b. 6 percent c. 03 percent 4.10 percent 3. One setof intemal dry bulb temperature data for a pressure change leakage rate test is: (++ TB = 1187 °F (y+ TY2=7232°F (+72 = 72.68°F (Ty+Ty+T)3 = 7307 F For each of these four sections of this system, the respective weighting factors are 0.27, 0.18, 0.22, and 0.33. The mean absolute dry bulb temperature of system air For this test data point is: 552.53 °R b, 345.53K c. 532.48 °R d, 53248K Liquid Penetrant Testing Method Levalt 1, Which of the following is generally the more acceptable method for cleaning parts prior to penetrant testing? a. sand blasting b. wire brushing, ©. grinding 4. vapor degreasing, Recommended Practice SNT-TC-1A (2011) 19