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 -
Keywords inspection, visual examination, ANSYAWS QCl-96
inspector, Certified Welding Inspector An American National Standard

Approved by
American National Standards Institute
December 9,1996

Standard for AWS Certification of

Welding Inspectors

Supersedes QC 1-88

Prepared by the
AWS Qualification and Certification Committee

Under the Directionof the

AWS Certification Council

Approved by
AWS Boardof Directors

Abstract
This standard defines the requirements and program for the American Welding Society to certify welding inspectors. The
certification of visual welding inspectors requires documentationof experience, satisfactory completion of an examination,
and proof of visual acuity. The examination tests the inspector's knowledge of welding processes, welding procedures,
destructive tests, terms, definitions, symbols, reports, safety and responsibilities.

American Welding Society

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 S T D - AWS

of AWS Standards
Statement on Use

All standards (codes, specifications,recommended practices, methods, classifications, and guides) of the American Welding Society
are voluntary consensus standards that have been developedin accordance with the rules of the American NationalStandards
Institute. When AWS standards are either incorporated in,or made part of, documents thatare included in federalor state laws and
regulations, or the regulations of other governmental bodies, their provisions carry
the full legal authority ofthe statute. In such
cases, any changesin those AWS standards mustbe approved by the governmentalbody having statutoryjurisdiction before they can
become a partof those laws andregulations. In allcases, these standards carry thefull legal authority of the contract or other
document thatinvokes the AWS standards. Where this contractual relationship exists, changes in or deviations from requirements of
an AWS standard must beby agreement between the contracting parties.

International Standard Book Number: 0-87171-486-8

American Welding Society,550 N.W. LeJeune Road, Miami, Florida 33126

O 1996 by American Welding Society.

All rights reserved

Printed in the UnitedStates of America

Note: The primary purpose of AWSis to serve and benefit its members. To this end, AWS provides a forum for the exchange,
consideration, and discussion ofideas and proposals that are relevant to the welding industry and the consensus of which forms the
basis for these standards. By providing such a forum,AWS does not assume any duties to which a user ofthese standards may be
required to adhere. By publishing this standard, the American Welding Societydoes not insure anyone using the information it
contains against any liabilityarising from that use. Publication of a standardby the AmericanWelding Society does not carry withit
any rightto make, use, orsell any patented items. Usersof the informationin this standard should makean independent,
substantiating investigation of the validity of that information for their particular use and the patent
status of any item referredto
herein.

With regard to technical inquiries made concerningAWS standards, oral opinionson AWS standards may be rendered. However,
such opinionsrepresent only the personal opinionsof the particular individuals giving them. These individuals do not speakon behalf
of AWS, nordo these oral opinions constitute official or unofficial opinionsor interpretations of AWS. In addition, oral opinionsare
informal and should not be usedas a substitute for an official interpretation.

This standard issubject to revisionat any timeby the AWS Qualification and Certification Committee.It must be reviewed everyfive
years and if not revised,it must beeither reaffirmed or withdrawn. Comments (recommendations, additions, or deletions) and any
pertinent data that may be of use in improving this standardare requested and shouldbe addressed to AWS Headquarters. Such
comments willreceive careful considerationby the AWS Qualification and Certification Committee and the author of the comments
will be informed of the Committee's response to the comments. Guests are invited to attend all meetingsof the AWS Qualification and
Certification Committeeto express their comments verbally. Procedures for appeal of an adverse decisionconcerning all such
comments are provided in the Rulesof Operation of the Technical Activities Committee. A copy of these Rules can be obtained from
the American WeldingSociety, 550 N.W. LeJeune Road, Miami, Florida 33126.

..
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Personnel

AWS Qualification and Certification Committee

C. E. Pepper, Chairman Lockwood Greene Engineers

R. K. Wiswesser, Ist Vice Chairman Welder Training and TestingInstitute
J. F. Harris, 2nd Vice Chairman Ashland Chemical Company
J . R. Hufsey, Secretary American Welding Society
S. P. Baczkowski* Ford Motor Company
E. M. Beck* Law Engineering Incorporated
W. F. Behnke Ford Motor Sterling Plant
H. F. Clark II Fluor Daniel, Incorporated
A. L. Collin* Consulting Engineer
F. Cusma Pacific Northwest Ironworkers
P. R. Evans Consultant
H. W. Goser Stupp Bros. Bridge& Iron Co.
W. L. Green* Retired, The OhioState University
J. E. Creer Standard RefrigerationlAutorad
M. L. Houle* Welding EngineeringServices
W. H. Kennedy Canadian Welding Bureau
R, E. Long* Welding Specialists,Inc.
R. D. Messer Exxon Chemical
A. L Petroski Valmet, Inc., Honeycomb Division
R. R. Picard, Sr.* ASEA Brown Boveri
S. L. Raymond National Training Fund
T. Schlajly* AISC
s. W.Scott ICF Kaiser Hanford Company
R. M. Simons* Washington Public Supply System
W. F. Urbick* Welding Management Consultants
R. F. Waite Consultant
F. G. Dehurier, Ex-Oficio American Welding Society
E. R. Bohnart, Ex-Oficio American Welding SocietyPresident
D. G. Howden, Ex-Oficio The Ohio State University
D. J. Kotecki, Ex-Oficio Lincoln Electric
R. J. Teuscher, Ex-Oficio IGP

* Advisory Members

..e

111

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 Personnel

AWS QCASubcommittee on Certificationof Welding Inspectors

H. F. Clark II, Chairman Fluor Daniel, Inc.

J. R. Hufsey, Secretary American Welding Society
H. Chapman NDE Counsellor
R. H. Clurbour Arlington Structural Steel Co., Inc.
S. P. Fugate Fought & Company, Inc.
L. G. Kvidahl Ingalls Shipbuilding
M. P. McAlpin BE & K Construction Company
R. D. Messer Exxon Chemical
C. E. Pepper Lockwood Greene Engineers
S. T.Synder CS Associates
Z. Turner City & County of San Francisco
R. K. Wiswesser Welder Training & Testing Institute
J. H. Zirnhelt Charcas International, Inc.

iv
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 S T D * A W S Q C 1-ENGL L77b m 07842b5 0507780

Foreword
(This Foreword is not part of AWS QC1-96, Standard for Cerftjìcation of AWS Welding Inspectors,but is included
for information only.)

The purpose of welding inspection is to determineif a weldment meets the acceptance criteria of a specific code,
standard, or other document. The welding inspector must be thoroughly familiar with welding processes, welding
procedures, welder qualifications, materials, the limitation of weld testing, be able to read drawings, prepare and
keep records, prepareand make reportsand make responsible judgments. For welding inspectors be to effective, the
activities performed shouldbe consistent with the requirements, and technical andethical principles.

The Qualification and Certification Committeeof the American Welding Society was formedin 1973. AWS QCl,
Standard for Certification of AWS Welding Inspectors was first published in 1975. The first examinations for the
certification of Welding Inspector were conductedin the spring and fallof 1976. Over26,000 individuals have met
the requirements of AWS QCl, worldwide, since the start of the program. The last revision to this standard was
published in 1988 and was approved by the American National Standards Institute.

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 Table of Contents
Section Page No .
Use of AWS Standards ............................................................................................................................................ ii
...
Committee Personnel............................................................................................................................................. 111
Subcommittee Personnel Subcommittee Personnel ................................................................................................ iv
Foreword ....................................................................................................................................................... v

1. Scope .......................................................................................................................................................... 1

2. Levels of Certification...................................................................................................................................... 1
2.1 Senior Certified WeldingInspector ...................................................................................................... 1
2.2 CertifiedWeldingInspector .................................................................................................................. 1
2.3 CertifiedAssociateWeldingInspector ................................................................................................. 1

3. Definitions ....................................................................................................................................................... 1

4 . Functions ......................................................................................................................................................... 2
4.1 Capability ............................................................................................................................................... 2
4.2 Duties ..................................................................................................................................................... 2

5. Education and ExperienceRequirements ........................................................................................................ 3

5.1 Senior Certified Welding Inspector ....................................................................................................... 3
5.2 Certified Welding Inspector ................................................................................................................... 5
5.3 Certified Associate Welding Inspector .................................................................................................. 6

6. Examination Requirements ............................................................................................................................. 7

7. Certification..................................................................................................................................................... 8
7.1 Documentation ....................................................................................................................................... 8
7.2Verification ............................................................................................................................................ 8
7.3Reciprocity ............................................................................................................................................. 8

8. Code of Ethics .................................................................................................................................................. 8

8.1 Integrity .................................................................................................................................................. 8
8.2 Responsibility to the Public ................................................................................................................... 8
8.3PublicStatements ................................................................................................................................... 9
8.4 Conflict of Interest ................................................................................................................................. 9
8.5 Solicitation of Employment ................................................................................................................... 9
8.6 Unauthorized Practice .......................................................................................................................... 10

9. Revocation ..................................................................................................................................................... 10
9.1 Committee............................................................................................................................................ 10
9.2 Courts................................................................................................................................................... 10

1o. Reinstatement ................................................................................................................................................ 10

I l. Upgrading of Certification ............................................................................................................................ 10

12. Recertification (Renewal) .............................................................................................................................. 10

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Standard for AWS Certification

of Welding Inspectors

l. Scope government regulations. This document only covers

the rules of certification.
1.1 This standardestablishestherequirementsfor
AWS certification of inspection personnel. It 2. Levels of Certification
describes
how personnel
are qualified, and the
principles of conduct and practice which by There are threelevels of
AWS certification of
certification may be maintained. Any oral or written welding
inspectionpersonnel. These levels are
claim of certification under the guidelines established defined as follows:
herein shall be madeonly by those individual
SCWIs, CWIs and CAWIs who are, at the timeof the 2.1 SeniorCertifiedWeldingInspector(SCWI).
claim, current and in compliance with all sections of A person certified by
AWS as meeting the
this standard. qualification requirementsof 5.1 and 6.

1.2 The threelevels of certificationareSenior 2.2 CertifiedWeldingInspector (CWI). A person

Certified
Welding
Inspector
(SCWI),
Certified certified by
AWS as meeting
the
qualification
WeldingInspector(CWI),andCertifiedAssociate requirements of 5.2 and 6.
Welding Inspector (CAWI).
2.3 Certified
Associate
Welding
Inspector
1.3 Inthecertificationprocess,AWSconductsan (CAWI). A person certified by AWS as meeting the
examination to determine a person’s general qualification requirementsof 5.3 and 6.
knowledge of welding inspection and related
technicalareas. No determinationismade ofan 3. Definitions
individual’scapabilities in applyingthatknowledge
within a specific work environment or under actual The welding terms used in this standard are defined
working conditions. inANSUAWS A3.0, Standard Welding Terms and
De$nitions. Other terms usedin this standard are
1.4 In thecertificationprocess,theemployeris defined as follows:
responsiblefordeterminingthat a personhasall
qualifications as stated herein. approved. To accept as satisfactory.
1.5 It shall be the responsibility of the employer to acceptance criteria. Specified limits placedon
determine thattheSCWI/CWI/CAWI is capable of characteristics of an item or process defined incodes,
performingthedutiesinvolved in hidher particular specifications, or other documents.
welding inspection assignment.
applicant. A personwho applies tothe AWS for
1.6 This standardisintendedtosupplementthe certification.
requirements of an employer, code, other or
documents and shall not be construed as a AWS. The AmericanWelding Society, 550 N.W.
preemption of the employer’s responsibility for the LeJeune Road, Miami, Florida 33126.
work or for the performanceof the work.
certificate. The document issued to the applicant on
1.7 Safety
Precautions. This
document is not successful
completion the
of requirements for
intended to address safety and
health
matters certification.
regardingcertifiedweldinginspectors.Safety and
health requirements are provided in ANSI 249.1, certification. The act of determining, verifying and
Safety in Welding and Cutting, othersafetyand attesting in writing to the qualification of personnel
health standards, and federal, state, and local in conformance to specified requirements.

4.

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4.1 Capability
Certifrcation
Department. The Certification
Department ofthe American Welding Society. 4.1.1 The S C W I shall be able to perfom
inspections,supervise one or more C W I s , CAWS,
code. standard
A suitable for adoption by a and/or NDE personnel, prepare inspection
governmental authority. procedures, review and interpret joining procedures,
conduct audits of vendors andor organizations
Committee. The CertificationCommittee ofthe providingmaterials or services to the project, and
American Welding Society. ensure thattheworkperformedandthe records
maintainedconformtothe requirements of the
CWE. Certified WeldingEducator. applicable standards and othercontract documents.

NDE. Nondestructive Examination. The act of 4.1.2 The CWI shall be able to perform
determining the suitability of somematerial or inspections or to verify that the work inspected, and
component for its intended purpose using techniques records maintained, conform to the requirements of
that do not affect its serviceability. the applicable standards.

QA. QualityAssurance.Specificationofquality 4.1.3 The C A W shall be able to perform

assurance methods,procedures, or criteria for inspections, under the direct supervision of a SCWI
employer or client.
Reviewquality
assurance or CWI withinvisibleand audible range,and as
programs vendors,
of subcontractors, or other defined in 4.2. It is the S C W I or CWI, however, who
organizations. Conduct or supervise quality audits of has
responsibility for determining welded
if
vendors, subcontractors,or other organizations. assemblies conform to workmanship and acceptance
criteria.
qualification. Demonstrated
training, skill,
knowledge and experience required for personnel to 4.2 Duties
perform the duties of a specificjob.
The Welding Inspector's specific duties are defined
qualified. Having
complied with specific by the employer; however, applicants shall be able to
requirements. demonstrate their abilities to perform the following
duties:
QC. Quality Control. Detection and measurement
weld
of discontinuities or thesupervision of 4.2.1 Interpret drawings and other documents.
individuals so involved. Specification of quality
control methods, procedures, and acceptance criteria. 4.2.2 Verifythat
the
base materials and
Reviewofquality control programs of vendors, consumable welding
materials conform to the
subcontractors,or other organizations. specifications and that welding filler metals used are
as specified for each base material or combination of
specification. Astandard suitable for adoption in base materials.
procurement documents.
4.2.3 Verify that the welding equipment to be
standard. A generic term incorporating codes, used for thework is appropriate for usewiththe
specifications, recommended
practices, welding procedure and has the capability to meet the
classifications, methods, and guides that have been applicable requirementsof the welding procedure.
prepared by a sponsoring committee, and approved
and
adopted in accordance with established 4.2.4 Verify that the welding procedures are as
procedures. specified and are qualified, and that the welding is
performed
in conformance to the applicable
verb usage. As used in this standard, the word shall procedure.
denotes a requirement, the word should denotesa
guideline and the wordmay denotes a choice. 4.2.4.1 Witness performance and testing of
procedure qualification test assemblies, or supervise
4. Functions these activities when performed by outside agencies.

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4.2.4.2 Verify documentation of procedure 4.2.7.1 Perform

required
the visual
qualification testresults. examinations.

4.2.5 Verifythatwelders,weldingoperators, 4.2.7.2 Verifythattherequiredvisualandother

and tack welders have been qualifiedin conformance nondestructive examinations have been performed by
to the applicable standards, and that
they
are qualified personnel in the specified manner. Review
qualified to use the welding procedures specified for the resulting information toensure that the resultsare
the work. complete.

4.2.5.1 Witnesstesting of theweldertest 4.2.7.3 Perform any further nondestructive

assemblies and/or welding operator qualification test examinations
arethat required, provided
assemblies, or supervise these activities when qualificationsare in conformance to thespecified
performed by outside agencies. requirements.

4.2.5.2 Verifydocumentation of perform- 4.2.8 Records

ance qualification test results.
4.2.8.1 Prepare clear and concise reports
4.2.5.3 Requirerequalification if there is and verify that records of the welding procedure, the
evidence thewelder's or weldingoperator's work welding
procedure
qualification,
the
welder's,
does not
conform to
the
requirements of
the weldingoperator's andtackwelder'squalifications,
applicable standard. the control of welding materials, and the results of
examinations are maintained.
4.2.5.4 Require
requalification if the
welder's or weldingoperator'squalification is not 5. Education
and Experience
current.
Requirements
4.2.6 Inspection of Work
5.1 Senior Certified Welding Inspector. Each
4.2.6.1 Verify
that
only
approved or applicant for certification as a Senior Certified
qualified welding procedures are used
for the work. Welding Inspector(SCWI):

4.2.6.2 Verify that the edge preparation or 5.1.1 Shall be a high school graduate,
or hold a
joint geometry meet the requirements of the welding state or militaryapprovedhigh school equivalency
procedure and drawings. diploma.

4.2.6.3 Verify
that
the
specified
filler 5.1.2 Shallhavenofewerthan fifteen years
metals are used and that filler metals are maintained experience inan occupationalfunctionthathasa
in proper condition, per requirements, or as direct relationship to welded assemblies fabricated to
recommended by the manufacturer. national or international standards and be directly
involved in one or more of the following:
4.2.6.4 Verify
that
the
technique
and
performance of each welder, welding operator, and 5.1.2.1 Design. Preparation
plans,
of
tack welder areas specified. drawings,procedures,inspection requirements and
acceptance criteria, and/or specifications for
4.2.6.5 Verifythattheworkconforms to weldments.
requirements of the applicable standards, drawings,
or other documents. 5.1.2.2 Production. Planning, control,
supervision, andor applicationofbasemetals and
4.2.6.6 Verifythattheworkinspectedis fillermetals in thepreparationandcompletionof
identified
and
documented in accordance with production weldments.
specified requirements.
5.1.2.3 Construction. Fabrication,
4.2.7 Nondestructive Examination erection, and/or supervision of personnel in erection
of welded assemblies or sub-assemblies.

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 5.1.2.4
Quality
Control. Detection and supervisoryexperience may be by affidavit from
measurement
of weld discontinuities or the either the employer or a client.
supervision of individuals so involved. Specification
of qualitycontrol (QC) methods,procedures, and 5.1.6 Shallhavebeencertified as an AWS
acceptance criteria. Review of quality controI CWI for a minimumof six years.
programs of vendors, subcontractors, or other
organizations. 5.1.7 Shall be familiar with,understand, and
be capable of applying and/or preparing
5.1.2.5QualityAssurance. Specification specifications
and procedures for the following
ofquality assurance (QA)methods,procedures, or joining and cutting processes:
criteria for employer or client. Review quality
assurance programs of vendors,subcontractors, or SMAW GTAW SW Thermal Cutting
otherorganizations.Conduct or supervisequality SAW FCAW Brazing Soldering
audits vendors,
of subcontractors, other
or O W GMAWEGW
ESW
organizations. RW LBW Thermal Spraying
EBW PAW Mechanical Cutting
5.1.2.6
Examination. Specification of
detection and measurement of weld discontinuities, Note: Cutting processes refer only to those that are
preparation of documented (written) procedures for applied to the fabrication and
repair of weldments.
visual or other nondestructive evaluation processes,
or destructive tests to be applied. Supervision of one 5.1.8 Shall be familiar with,understand,and
or more technicians engaged in examination testing. be capable ofspecifying, planning and/or supervising
Application of visual or other nondestructive personnel performing thefollowing activities:
evaluation processes to a written procedure.
VT UT RT AET ET
5.1.2.7Repair. Repairofweldsthat are MT PT LT QA Audits
defective, or supervision of personnelperforming QA Procedures QA Surveillance
weld repair.
5.1.9 Shall be thoroughly familiar withand
5.1.3 All applicants mustsuccessfully capable of performing or supervising others in the
complete (minimum 75% correct) the SCWI performance of the duties described in Section 4.
examinationprovided by theAmericanWelding Functions.
Society. This examination shall include questions
inspection,
relating
toquality
assurance, 5.1.10 Alternatives to 5.1.2 with supporting
nondestructive examination, and welding processes, documentation(e.g., copies of transcripts which
extracted from referenced study materials. specify credited hours of training, quarter hours, or
semester hours) may be substituted as follows, with
5.1.4 Shall submit with the application, written the exception that a maximum of three (3) years of
verification of documented employment as outlined experience may be substituted usingthe provisions of
in 5.1.2, above. This verification shall be completed 5.1.10.1 and 5.1.10.2 individually, or in combination.
and
signed by applicant’s
the most
recent
employment supervisor or the appropriate personnel 5.1.10.1 A maximum of two years of post-
department staff, attesting to the applicant’s highschooleducation maybe substituted for an
employment activities of which helshe has personal equal number of years of the required fifteen years
knowledge or documentation. experience, provided studies are relevant to anyof
the functions described in 5.1.2. Credit is given as
5.1.5 Shall havebeenresponsibleforthe follows:
supervision of one or moreQC,QA, or NDE
personnel in the conduct of welding,examination, (1) Associate or higher degree.Two years
design, fabrication, or construction involving maximum if the degree is in engineering
structures fabricated by welding, brazing, or technology, engineering, or a physical science.
soldering for aminimumofthreeyears. If the
applicant is a consultant, the verification of (2) Engineering/”ecRnicalSchoolCourses.Two
years maximum, and then only for successfully

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completed courses* in a curriculum that can be

(or could be) applied to (1) above. 5.2.2.3 Construction. Fabrication and/or
erection of weldments.
(3) TradeNocational Courses. One year
maximum, andthen only for successfully 5.2.2.4
Examination. Detection
and
completed courses* in a curriculum related measurement of weld discontinuities and verification
to welding that canbe (or couldbe) applied of fabrication requirements describedin 4.2.
to (1) above.
5.2.2.5 Repair. Repair of weldsthat are
*Note: "Course in thecurriculum"meanscourses defective.
within a body of courses offered toward a degree, or
thatcan be appliedto a degree in (1) above. 5.2.3 Shall submit, with the application,
"Successfully completed courses" meansa completed written verification of the documented employment.
quarterorsemester with credit in thatcourse. This verification shall be completed and signed by
Documentation of the number of actual hours the applicant's most recentemployment supervisor or
completed is necessary prior to notification of actual the appropriate personnel department staff, attesting
credit allowed. totheapplicant'semployment activities ofwhich
he/she has personal knowledge or documentation.
5.1.10.2 Three years of relevant** teaching
experience may be substituted for a maximum of two 5.2.4 Alternativesto 5.2.1 and 5.2.2 with
years of thefifteenyearsexperiencerequirement propersupportingdocumentation(e.g., copies of
with documentation (e.g., photocopied summaries of transcripts, letters ofreference,etc.whichspecify
subjects taught, teachingcertificates,andletters of credited hours of training, quarter hours, or semester
reference) or a current C W , in conformanceto hours) may be substituted as follows, withthe
AWSQCS,may substitute for 3 ofthe 15 years exceptionthat a maximumoftwo (2) years of
experience requirement. experience may be substituted using the provisions of
5.2.4.3 and 5.2.4.4 individually or in combination.
**Note: Relevant experience shall be considered on
the following basis: Teaching full-time in a trade, 5.2.4.1 Eighthgradelevel schooling with
area or technical school, college or university, in the not less than 10 yearswork experience in welding
occupational skill of welding or subjects related to functions describedin 5.2.2.
welding; its application, control, materials,
and
processes. 5.2.4.2 Less thananeighth grade level
schooling withnot
less
than 15 yearswork
5.2 CertifiedWeldingInspector. Eachapplicant experience in welding functions described in 5.2.2.
for certification as a CertifiedWeldingInspector
(CWI): 5.2.4.3 A maximumoftwo ( 2 ) years of post-high
schooleducation may besubstituted for an equal
5.2.1 Shall be a high school graduate; or hold number of years of the required five years
a state or military approved high school equivalency experience,provided studies are relevant toanyof
diploma. thefunctionsdescribed in 5.2.2. Credit is given as
follows:
5.2.2 Shall have no fewer than five years (1) Associate or higher degree. Two years
experience inanoccupationalfunctionthathas a maximum if thedegree is in engineering
direct relationship to welded assemblies fabricated to technology, engineering,or physical sciences.
nationalor international standardsandbedirectly
involved in one or more of the following: ( 2 ) Engineeringnechnical SchoolCourses.
twoyears
maximum,and
then
only for
5.2.2.1Design. Preparation of plans and successfully
completed courses* in a
drawings for weldments. curriculum that canbe (or could be) applied to
(1) above.
5.2.2.2 Production. Planning and control
of welding
materials,
welding
procedures and (3) TradeNocational Courses. One year
welding operations for weldments. maximum,and
then
only for successfully

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 S T D AWS

completed courses* in a curriculum related to

welding that can be (or could be) applied to 5.3.1 Shall be a high schoolgraduate or hold a
(1) above. state or militaryapprovedhigh school equivalency
diploma.
*Note: "Course in the curriculum"means courses
within a body of courses offered toward a degree, or 5.3.2 Shallhave no fewerthantwoyears
thatcanbeapplied to a degree in (1) above. experiencein an occupational function that has a
"Successfully completed courses" means a completed direct
relationship to weldmentsfabricated to
quarter or semester with credit in thatcourse. national or international standards and directly
Documentation of the number of actualhours involved in one or more of thefollowing:
completed is necessary prior to notification of actual
credit allowed. 5.3.2.1Design. Reparation of plans and
drawings for weldments.
5.2.4.4 Three years of relevant** teaching
experience may be substitutedfor a maximum of two 5.3.2.2Production. Planning and control
years of the five years experience requirement with of welding
materials,
welding procedures and
proper documentation or a current CWE in welding operations for weldments.
accordance with AWS QC5 may substitute for three
(3) of the 5 years experience requirement(e.g., 5.3.2.3
Construction. Fabrication and/or
photocopied summaries of subjects taught, teaching erection of weldments.
certificates, andletters of reference).
5.3.2.4
Examination. Detection
and
**Note: Relevant experience shall be considered on measurement of weld discontinuities and verification
the following basis: Teaching full time in atrade, of fabrication requirements described
in 4.2.
area or technical school, college or university, in the
occupational skill of welding or subjects related to 5.3.2.5Repair. Repairofweldsthat are
welding; its application, control, materials, and defective.
processes.
5.3.3 Shall submit, withthe application,
5.2.5 Shall be familiar withandunderstand written verification of employment. This verification
fundamentals of the following processes shall be completed and signed by the applicant's most
recentemploymentsupervisor or the appropriate
SMAW GTAW Thermal
SW
Cutting employment activities of which he/she has personal
SAW FCAW Brazing
EGW knowledge or documentation.
OFW ESW
GMAW Soldering
RW LBW Thermal Spraying 5.3.4 Alternatives to 5.3.1 and 5.3.2, with
EBW PAW Mechanical Cutting propersupportingdocumentation(e.g., copies of
transcripts,letters of reference,etc.,whichspecify
Note: Cutting processes refer only to those that are earnedcredithours of training, quarter hours, or
applied to the fabrication and repair
of weldments. semester hours):

5.2.6 Shall be familiar with and understand the 5.3.4.1 Eighth grade level of schooling
following examination methods: withnotlessthan four yearswork experience in
welding functions describedin 5.3.2.
VT UT RT MT
PT AET LT ET 5.3.42 Less than an eighth grade level of
schooling with not less than six years experience in
5.2.7 Shall be thoroughly familiar withand welding functions, as defined in 5.3.2.
capable of performing theduties described in Section
4. Functions. 5.3.4.3 Eighthgradelevel of schooling
with not less than one year of vocational education
5.3 CertifiedAssociateWeldingInspector. Each and training in awelding curriculum and at least
applicant for certification as CertifiedAssociate threeyearsexperience in weldingfunctions, as
Welding Inspector(CAW): defined in 5.3.2.

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 more than 7 months prior to the date of the welding
5.3.4.4 Two yearspost-high
school inspector examinationor recertification.
education in welding curriculum or engineering
technology, engineering, or physical sciences, and at 6.1.1.2 The
completed eye examination
least six months experience in welding functions, as resultsshall be received in the AWS Certification
defined in 5.3.2. Department NOT LATER THAN30 DAYS after the
applicant'scompletedexaminationdate.Applicants
5.3.5 Shall be familiar with and understand the who have NOT fulfilled ALL requirements by that
fundamentals of the following processes date shall have ALL records, scores, and applications
VOIDED.
FCAW
SAW
SW
GTAW
SMAW
OFW
LBWRWESW GMAW 6.1.2 Pass a written three part examination as
Soldering
PAWEBWEGW follows:
Brazing
Thermal
Cutting
Mechanical Cutting 6.1.2.1 An open book test on the
Thermal Spraying requirements of a fabrication standard.

Note: Cutting processes refer only to those that are 6.1.2.2 A closed book test on fundamental
applied to the fabrication and repairof weldments. principles on topicsincluding, but notlimitedto,
welding and nondestructive testing processes, safety,
5.3.6 Shall be familiar with,andcapableof inspector's
duties, weld discontinuities, welding
performing under the direction or supervision of the symbols, mechanical properties of metals, and basic
CWI, specific duties described in Section 4. on-the-job arithmetic.
Functions.
6.1.2.3 A test on practical
6. ExaminationRequirements application of welding inspection
knowledge
including,but not limitedto,welding procedure
Applicants
6.1following
meet
shall
the qualification,
welder qualification, mechanical
examination requirements to be considered for testing,drawing/specification compliance, welding
certification as either SCWI, CWI,or CAWI: examination, and nondestructive testing processes.

6.1.1 Pass an eye examination, with or without 6.1.2.4 Applicantsshallpasseach part of

corrective lenses, to provenearvisionacuity on the examination. Individuals failing one part of the
Jaeger J2 at 12". Shall take a color perception test. writtenexaminationmustretestonallparts of the
Eye examination results shall be submitted on forms examination.
furnished by the AWS Certification Department.
Notes: (1) SCWIs,CWIs, and CAWIswhofailto
Note:Nearvisionacuityisconsideredessential to meet
the
minimum scores for their respective
the proper performance of weldingexamination. certification upon reexamination shall be considered
Failure tomeetthe above levelofacuityshallbe no longer certified. Such persons will be notified of
adequate cause to reject an applicant or refuse their status in writing.
recertification. Colorvisionacuityis desirable in
somespecific applications, butisnotconsidered (2) SCWIs and CWIs who fail to meet the
essential for all
examinations. It shall
be
the minimum
requirements for their
respective
employer'sresponsibilitytoestablishand enforce certification upon reexamination may be certified for
color
perceptionrequirements for thoseSCWIs, the certification level that they actually achieved.
CWIs and CAWIsin hidher employ.
(3) CWIs and CAWIs whosescores on each
6.1.1.1 examinations
Eye shall be part of the examination meet the requirements of a
administered byan Ophthalmologist, Optometrist, higher certification level may request an upgrade to
Medical
Doctor,
Registered
Nurse,
Certified thatlevel when the requirements of 5.1 or 5.2 are
Physician's Assistant, orby other ophthalmic medical satisfied.
personnel. Examinations shall be performed not

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 Note:
Certification
upgrade is not automatic, examination of a reciprocal country, and holding a
Applicantmust complete andsubmitallnecessary currentlyvalidcertificate.Reciprocity periods are
documents for consideration. Also, refer to Section for 3 year terms fromthe date of validation, or for the
11. Upgrading of Certification. certification
period
remaining
within hisher
country's certificate, whichever
less.is
7. Certification Recertification for anyremainingmonths or years
(maximum of 3 years) of theSCWI/CWI/CAWI's
7.1 Documentation home country'scertification may be accomplishedby
submitting a "Renewal Application."
The AmericanWeldingSocietyshallissue to each
SCWI, CWI, and CAWI applicant who complies with Notes: (1) Except as noted in 12.2.2, recertification
the requirements of Section 5.1, or 5.2 or 5.3 and 6., by applicationislimitedtoatotal of nine years
as applicable, a serialized (unique number) certificate without examination.
and a wallet card stating that the applicant has met
the AWS certification requirements.Certification (2) Reciprocity certifications shall remain in
shallbevalidfor three yearsunlessrevokedfor force untilsuchtime as thenormal certification
reasons defined in 8.6 and the authorityof Section 9. period
has elapsed, or upon findings by the
Revocation. The certificate shall indicate the date of Committee, and confirmedby the Board ofDirectors,
certification. The wallet card
shall
indicate
the that the particular program upon which the original
expiration date of certification andanyneed for reciprocity wasbasedisnotbeingadministeredin
corrective lenses for near vision acuity. It shall also conformance to the submitted specifications.
state results of color vision tests. Changes
programs
to subsequent to granting
reciprocityshallbe cause for reevaluation by the
Verification
7.2 Qualification
and
Certification
Committee of
issuance of certifications beyond the date of change.
The American WeldingSociety
shall release
certification test results only to the applicant Contact theAWSCertification Department fora
SCWI/CWCAWI, or person ato agency
or listing of current reciprocal agreements.
designated by the applicant SCWI/CWI/CAWI upon
writtenrequest, andwithnotarizedandwitnessed 8. Code of Ethics
release. The exception to
this
requirement
are
membersofAmericanWeldingSocietystaffand Preamble. In order to safeguard the health and well
members
and officers of Certification
the being of the public andto maintain integrity and high
Committee, who may request and receive access to standardsof skills, practice,and conduct in the
all information relating to program participants in the occupationofwelding inspection, theAmerican
necessarypursuit of theirdutiesonbehalf ofthe Welding Society SCWIs, W s , and CAWIs shall be
program. Test results, in addition to those provided cognizant of the following principles and the scope to
at the time of examination, may require paymentof a whichtheyapply,withtheunderstandingthatany
nominal administrative fee. Verbal requests for unauthorizedpracticeissubject to theCommittee's
verification of status and certification numberof review andmay result in suspension, reprimand, or
SCWI'S,CWI's,andCAWI'sshall be provided to revocation of certification.
requestorswithout charge. Onlythecertification
number, date certified and current status (current, 8.1 Integrity. The SCWI,CWI,andCAWI shall
revoked, etc.) shall be providedby
American act with complete integrity in professionalmatters
Welding Society staff members without the express, and be forthright and candid to their employer, the
written approval of the applicant, SCWI,CWI,or regulator or employer's customer,and
withthe
CAWI. Committeeor its representatives,
matters
on
pertaining to this standard.
7.3 Reciprocity
8.2 Responsibility to
the
Public. The SCW,
The American Welding Society may issue a SCWI, CWI, and CAWI shall act to preserve the health and
CWI, or C A W certificate toapplicantswhohave wellbeingof the public by performing duties
met requirements equivalent to those of 5.1, 5.2. 5.3 required of welding inspectionin a conscientious and
and 6., the latter by successfullycompletingthe impartial mannerto the full extent of the inspector(s)

COPYRIGHT American Welding Society, Inc.

Licensed by Information Handling Services
 moraland civic responsibility and qualification.
Accordingly, the SCWI, CWI,and CAWI shall:
8.2.1 Undertake and perform assignments only
when qualified by training,experience, and
capability.
8.2.2 Present credentials upon request.
8.2.3 Neitherfalselyrepresentcurrentstatus
nor
seek to misrepresentthe
certification
level
(SCWVCWVCAWI) by modification of certification
documents or falseverbalorwrittentestimony of
current level or status.
8.2.4 Becompletely objective, thorough,and
factual in any written report, statement, or testimony
oftheworkandincludeallrelevant or pertinent
testimony in such communiques or testimonials.
8.2.5 Sign only for work that the inspector has
inspected, or for work over which the inspector has
personal knowledge throughdirect supervision.
8.2.6 Neither associate withnorknowingly
participate in a fraudulent or dishonest venture.
8.3PublicStatements
8.3.1 The SCWI, CWI,or C A W shall issue no
statements,
criticisms
arguments
or weld
on
inspection mattersconnected with public policy
whichwereinspired or paid for byan interested
party, or parties, without first identifying the party,
the speaker, anddisclosinganypossiblefinancial
interest.
8.3.2 The SCWI, CWI, or CAWI shall publicly
express no opinion on weldinginspectionsubjects
unless it is founded upon adequate knowledge of the
facts in issue, upon a background of technical
competence pertinent to the subject, and upon honest
conviction oftheaccuracyandproprietyofthe
statement.
8.4 Conflict of Interest
8.4.1 The SCWI, CWI, or CAWI shall avoid a
conflict of interest with the employer or client and
shall disclose business
any association, or
circumstance that mightbe so considered.
8.4.2 The SCWI, CWI, or CAWIshallnot
accept compensation, financial or otherwise,from
more than one party for services on the same project,
COPYRIGHT American Welding Society, Inc.
Licensed by Information Handling Services
or for services pertaining to the same project, unless
the circumstances are fully disclosed and agreed to
by all interested partiesor their authorized agents.
8.4.3 The SCWI,CWI, or CAWI shall not
solicit or accept gratuities, directlyor indirectly, from
any party,orparties,dealingwiththe client or
employer in connection with the SCWI's, CWI's, and
CAWI's work.
8.4.4 The SCWI, CWI, or CAWI shall, while
servinginthecapacity ofan elected, retained, or
employed public official, neither inspect, review, nor
approve workin thecapacityofSCWI,CWI or
CAWI on projectsalso subject to theinspector's
administrative jurisdiction as a public official, unless
this practice is expressly dictatedby a job description
and/orspecificationandallaffectedparties tothe
action arein agreement.
8.5Solicitation of Employment
8.5.1 The SCWI, CWI, or CAWI shall neither
pay, solicit, nor offer, directly or indirectly, any bribe
or commission for professional employment with the
exception of theusualcommissionrequired from
licensed employment agencies.
8.5.2 The SCWI, CWI, or CAWI shall neither
falsify, exaggerate, nor indulge in the
misinterpretation of personal academic
and
professional qualifications, assignments,
past
accomplishments and responsibilities,or those of the
inspector'sassociates.Misrepresentation of current
SCWUCWVCAWI certification status at the time of,
or subsequentsubmission
to, of requested
employmentinformation, or in the solicitationof
business contracts wherein current certification is
required
either or inherently
beneficial
(advertisements for training courses, consulting
services, etc.) shallbe a violation of this section.
8.5.3 The SCWI, CWI, or CAW1 credentials
may only be used for the field of welding inspection.
AWS has notqualifiedtheseindividualsfor non
welding related inspection.
8.5.4 The SCWI,CWI, or CAWI shall not
disclose proprietary information, (i.e., commercially
valuable
information
generally
not known)
concerning business affairs or technical processes of
a present or former client or employer, without their
written consent, except as necessary to perform the
duties of a SCWI, CWI,or CAWI.
 S T D - A W S r;lC 1-ENGL L79b 078r12bS 0 5 0 7 7 7 1 5 4 3

SCWI,
to the
CWIshall
comply
with the
CAUTION While the SCWI, CWI, or CAWI may requirements of 5.1 and 6.1 at the time of upgrade,
haveestablished excellent credentials, certification and
shall
request upgrade directions from the
alone may not legallyqualify the Inspector to provide Certification
Department, Likewise, the CAW
inspection services to public.
theContract may remain at theAssociate certification level.
documents, or building or jurisdiction lawsmay Should he or she desire to upgrade the certification
require inspection to beperformed under
the CWI,
to the C A W shall comply with the
direction and responsibility of others,such as a requirements of5.2 and 6.1 at the time of upgrade,
Registered Professional Engineer. and shall request upgrade directions from the AWS
Certification Department.
8.6 Unauthorized Practice. Anyviolation of any
part of the standard of conduct prescribed by this
standard if related to a SCWI's, CWI's, or CAWI's 12. Recertification (Renewal)
occupation, including any violation of the Code of
Ethics contained in this standard, shall constitute an 12.1 The S C W I , CWI,
and C A W shall be
unauthorized practice subject to theimposition of responsible for:
sanctions.
(1) Maintaining certification by submitting
either:
9. Revocation
(a) "Renewal
A Application" post-
9.1 Committee. The Committee shall
havethe marked by the expiration date* of the current
power to suspend, refuse renewal, or revoke the certification,or
SCWI's,
CWI's, or CAW'S certification for
misrepresentation of facts regarding personal (b) Awritten request for "Renewal
qualifications, status, assignments,etc.,relating to Application"
postmarked at least one calendar
SCWI's,CWI's, or CAWI's certifications whether month priorto expiration of the current certification.
suchmisrepresentation was made at the time of
application or on subsequent applications(renewal, (2) Maintaininga current address withthe
etc.). The Committee may place on probationor AWS Certification Department**.
reprimand a certificate holder, if found guilty of any
unauthorized practice (asoutlined in Section 8.6 *Certification becomes effective on the first day of
Unauthorized Practice) in a proceeding conducted in the month following the date of examination, and
conformance AWS QC9,
to Administrative expires on the first day of that month, 3 years later.
Procedures for Alleged Violations of AWS An expiration grace period exists until the last day
CerfijìcationPrograms (Availablefromthe AWS of that month.
Certification Department).
**NOTIFKATION OF ADDRESS CHANGES(S)
9.2 Courts. The Committee may applytoany TO ONE DEPARTMENT, e.g., Welding Journal
court of competent jurisdiction for further subscription or memberships, does not
enforcement of its administrative
decisions
and automatically notify other departments, such as the
rulings. AWS Certification
Department.
Notify
the
Certification Departmentat AWS directly.
10. Reinstatement
12.2 The SCWI, CWI, and CAWI shall be
Reinstatement of a revoked certificate shall be recertified every threeyears by reexamination or,
allowed with no penaltyor prejudice to the individual alternatively, meet certain requirements for renewal
provided the reason for suchrevocationhasbeen withoutexamination.However, except as allowed
rectified to the Committee's satisfaction. in 12.2.1 and 12.2.2, recertification without
examination is limitedto two consecutive three-year
11. Upgrading of Certification periods. The SCWI, CWI, or CAW shall, upon
expiration of hisher certification, cease to be a
The CWI may remain at the CWI certification level. SCWI, C W I or C A W andmaynot continue to
Should he or she desire to upgrade the certification advertise as such.

10

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 S T D - A W S Q C L-ENGL 277b m 07842b5 0 5 0 7 7 9 2 48T m

12.2.1 The SCWI, CWI, or CAWI requesting 2. Course content must be one or more of the
renewal of certification shall attest totwoyears subject areas defined in Section 5.
activity, of their three-year certification period, in the Education and Experience Requirements of
practice of welding inspection or related activities as this standard.
definedin Section 5. EducationandExperience 3. Maximumof forty (40)contact hours are
Requirements. TheSCWI,CWI,orCAWI shall allowed for any one course, and no course
completea current "Renewal Application." One of may be repeated for credit within any three
the two years
of
activity
maybe fulfilled by year period.
satisfactorydocumentation of
the
completion or 4. Certificates of completion,diplomas, or
teaching of a minimum of forty (40) contact hours of transcripts must be sent to
the AWS
training courseswhosecontentmustbe in the Certification Department directly from the
occupational skill ofwelding, or subjects related to issuing institution or organization.
welding,its application, control, materials, and 5. Trainers whowantto substitute training
processes, as follows: hours for student hours shall submit
documentation of the hours of training
Courses
offered by accredited performed. Credit for a particular course
universities, colleges, ortechnical may only be grantedonceina three year
(including trade) schools. period.
Courses
offered by theAWS
Education Department. Failuretomeet the alternative requirements for
AWS Education Department courses experienceandcontinuingeducation credits above,
offered by AWS Sections. shall
automatically require recertification by
Home study
coursesas
long as the examination using thecurrent practical section of the
candidateprovidesdocumentationthat certification examination.
he or shesuccessfullycompletedthe
course and passedan examination. 12.2.3 The SCWI, CWI, and CAWI applying
Certificates of completion, diplomas, or for renewal of certification that has expired or those
transcripts mustbesent to theAWS choosing recertification by examination will be
Certification Departmentdirectlyfrom considered as new applicants, and should contact the
the issuing institution or organization. AWS Certification Department for the correct
Trainers must submit
documentation procedure.
showing they performed
forty (40)
contact hours of training. 12.2.4 TheSCWI,CWI,and CAWI shall
pass an eye examination. The requirements for the
12.2.2 After nine
years
from
the date of examination are in 6. and the results shall be
initial certification, andeachnineyearsthereafter, submitted to completerecertification.
recertification shall be either: (a) by completing the
current practical sectionoftheSCWUCWUCAWI
examination (current examination at thetimeof
application for recertification) or, (b) by attesting to
two (2) yearsofcontinuedactivity in inspection,
welding, design, production, construction, or repair,
during the last three yearsof certification, andby
presenting evidence (certificate or transcript) of
participation or teaching in training courses or
programsoffered by AWSEducationDepartment,
local AWS sections, or an accredited university,
college or trade/vocational school meeting the
following criteria:

1 . Minimum of
eighty (BO) contact hours
earnedduringthenineyearcertification
period including forty (40) earned in the
final three year period.

11

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