PROCEDURE FOR CERTIFYING NONDESTRUCTIVE EXAMINATION PERSONNEL

8/20/2019 PROCEDURE FOR CERTIFYING NONDESTRUCTIVE EXAMINATION PERSONNEL

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Document Number Revision

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Project Application Prepared By Date

APPROVALS:

Title Signature Date

PROCEDURE FOR CERTIFYING NONDESTRUCTIVE

EXAMINATION PERSONNEL

D. Murdock

Level III

Service Line Manager

Director of Quality Operations




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Revision Log

Revision Number Affected Pages CRA Number Approval

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2 1, 3, 4, 8, 9, 11, 24, 25 5277

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11 5, 6 , 9, 11, 15, A1, B1 8841 S. Larson

12 9, 23 9331 M. Alling

13 4, 8, 10, E1, E4, E5 9776 S. Larson

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17 4,10,15,19,20,22 10794 A. Sentementes

18 4, 6-8, 11, 13-15, 17, 18, B1,C10, C11

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1. OBJECTIVE

This procedure provides a uniform system for qualification and certification of nondestructive

examination (NDE) personnel.

2. GENERAL

2.1 Certifications issued prior to the effective date of this revision remain valid, until

recertification in that method is required. Recertification shall be in accordance with the

latest revision of this procedure.

2.2 This document is to be used for certifying personnel only in the following NDE methods:

Electromagnetic Testing (ET)

Leak Testing (LT)

Magnetic Particle Testing (MT)

Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT)

Radiographic Testing (RT)

Ultrasonic Testing (UT)

Ultrasonic Testing/Thickness (UT/T)

2.3 Personnel performing UT examinations (other than UT/T) in accordance with ASME Section

XI, shall meet the requirements of Appendix C of this procedure.

3. REFERENCES

3.1 This procedure integrates the NDE personnel certification requirements of:

3.1.1 The American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code,

Section XI, 1995 Edition with 1996 addenda and earlier editions.

3.1.2 ANSI/ASNT CP-189-1991 Standard for Qualification and Certification of

Nondestructive Testing Personnel.


Section XI 1998 Edition.

3.1.4 ANSI/ASNT CP-189-1995 Standard for Qualification and Certification of

Nondestructive Testing Personnel.


Section XI, Code Case N-489.




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10CFR Part 50 RIN3150-AE26 Industry Codes and Standards; Amended Requirements

effective date November 22, 1999.

3.1.6 ASNT-TC-1A 1996 edition, winter 1998 addenda

4. RESPONSIBILITY

4.1 The responsibility for the administration of this procedure rests with the Director of Quality

Operations. The Director of Quality Operations may designate an individual (the Corporate

Level III) to be responsible for the administration and maintenance of this procedure and for

the certification of Level III individuals.

4.2 The Service Line manager is responsible for maintaining those records required by this

procedure. This responsibility may be delegated.

4.3 The SCIENTECH Corporate Level III is responsible for the approval and administration of

this procedure. The Corporate Level III is the Principal Level III for the methods for which

he is certified.

4.4 The principal Level III in a given method is responsible for the certification of all Level I and

Level II personnel in that method as well as any other Level III personnel in that method.

5. LEVELS OF QUALIFICATION

5.1 There are five basic levels of qualifications. Due to the various areas of expertise within each

method, the certifications may be restricted to specified applications of a particular method.

These restrictions, if any, are described on the employee's certification.

5.2 The five basic levels of qualification are as follows:

5.2.1 Trainee - In the process of being qualified and certified to at least Level I, an

individual is considered a Trainee. A Trainee works directly with a certified Level II

or III individual and does not independently conduct an examination, interpret results

of an examination or report the examination results.

5.2.2 NDE Level I -An NDE Level I individual may perform specific calibrations, and

specific examinations and record data according to written procedures under the

supervision of a Level II or Level III individual. A Level I shall not evaluate or accept

results of any nondestructive examinations.




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5.2.3 NDE Level II - An NDE Level II individual may set up and calibrate equipment,

perform examinations and interpret, evaluate and document results with respect to

applicable codes, standards, procedures and specifications. The NDE Level II is

thoroughly familiar with the scope and limitations of the methods for which the

individual is qualified and should be capable of directing the work of trainees and

NDE Level I personnel. The NDE Level II may organize and report the results of

nondestructive examinations.

5.2.4 NDE Level III - An NDE Level III individual shall have the skills and knowledge to

establish techniques; to interpret codes, standards and specifications; designate the

particular examination methods, techniques, and procedures to be used; and to verify

the adequacy of procedures. The NDE Level III has general familiarity with other

appropriate NDE methods, and is qualified to train and is authorized to examine and

certify NDE Level I and Level II personnel in the methods for which the Level III is

qualified.

5.2.5 NDE Instructor - An NDE instructor shall have the skills and knowledge to plan,

organize, and present classroom, laboratory, demonstration, and/or on-the-job NDT

instruction, training, and/or education programs in accordance with course outlines

approved by an NDE Level III.

6. QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS FOR

EACH LEVEL OF CERTIFICATION

6.1 GENERAL

In order to be certified, an individual must satisfy the qualification requirements listed for the

applicable level in each of the following categories.

A. Vision acuity examination (See Paragraph 6.2)

B. Education, experience and training (See Paragraph 6.3)

C. Technical examination (See Paragraph 8.0)

6.2 VISION ACUITY EXAMINATION

6.2.1 All levels of certified personnel will have their eyes examined at least annually to

ensure that the following requirements are met in at least one eye:




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1. Near Vision – 20/25 snellen fraction or greater. This is demonstrated by

reading words or identifying characters on a near-distance test chart. A

measurement of one of the near-distance test chart characters shall be made

once before initial use, with an optical comparator (10X or greater) or other

suitable instrument, to verify that the height of a representative lower case

character without an ascender or descender (e.g., a, c, e, o) for the selected

type size, meets the requirements of Table 1.

TABLE 1

NEAR-DISTANCE ACUITY TEST DISTANCES

AND CHARACTER HEIGHT

TestDistance,

in.

Maximum Lower CaseCharacter Height,

In.

12

13

14

15

16

0.022

0.024

0.025

0.027

0.029

2. Distance Vision - Snellen 20/30 or equivalent, as approved by a Level III.

3. Color Perception - Demonstrated ability to distinguish and differentiate

contrast between colors used in the applicable method.

This may be performed during practical examination or by viewing printed color plates. Evidence of

a successful completion of a practical examination is sufficient evidence of the necessary color

perception to certify the individual in that method.

4. If corrective lenses must be worn to pass portions of the eye examination, this

shall be noted on the report and they must be worn while performing NDE

Examinations as applicable.




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6.2.2 Eye examinations may be performed by:

1. Ophthalmologist or Optometrist

2. Qualified medical professionals

3. An individual instructed in the administration of a vision acuity examination.

4. A Level III Examiner

5. SCIENTECH QA Representative

6.2.3 Eye examinations are reported on a form similar to Exhibit 2. The format may vary

but the results of the above requirements are recorded.

6.3 EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING

For each level of certification, experience and/or training gained with a prior employer or

outside agency may be applied toward certification if verified and documented in writing by

the previous employer or outside agency. Any claimed training which cannot be verified and

documented shall be considered invalid.

6.3.1 For initial Level I or Level II certification an employee must satisfy the experience

requirements of Table 2.

6.3.1.1 “Method” experience shall be based on hours actually worked in the specific

NDE method.

6.3.1.2 “Total hours in NDE” includes time spent in other NDE methods or in NDE-

related activities as defined below:

• Supervision of NDE personnel.

• Writing procedures for the performance of nondestructive

examinations.

• Classroom or other organized instruction of NDE personnel.

• Review of NDE data for code compliance.

• Monitoring nondestructive examinations.

Records substantiating qualification are documented and verified prior to

certification.




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• Classroom or other organized instruction of NDE personnel.

• Review of NDE data for code compliance.

• Monitoring nondestructive examinations.

6.3.5 Experience completed during employment with SCIENTECH and applied toward

initial Level III certification is documented in the candidate's certification file.

6.3.6 A candidate being considered for qualification as an NDE Instructor shall satisfy the

Level III Basic and Method Examination requirements and shall also meet one of the

following requirements:

1) the candidate shall maintain a current teacher or vocational instructor

certificate issued by a state, municipal, provincial, or federal authority; or

2) the candidate shall complete a minimum of 40 hours instruction in training

and teaching techniques.

6.4 RESTRICTED, LIMITED, OR SPECIFIC METHOD CERTIFICATION

Restricted, limited or specific method certifications may be provided. The restrictions,

limitations if any and/or removal of restriction and limitation conditions are described in the

Appendices to this procedure. The Appendices are:

Appendix A Radiographic Examination

Appendix B Ultrasonic Thickness

Appendix C UT Certification to Appendix VII of ASME Section XI

A notation describing the restriction to the certification is indicated in the "Certification

Restrictions" section of the Certificate of Qualification (Exhibit 1).

6.5 ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATION

Certain specialized applications or techniques such as the UT examination of reactor vessel

nozzle inner radius or the UT examination for detecting intergranular stress corrosion

cracking may require training and/or qualification in excess of the requirements of this

procedure. Such additional requirements are beyond the scope of this procedure for basic

certification in the NDE method. They may be found in the NDE procedure used for

performing the examination in question or in separate qualification procedures.




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7. TRAINING PROGRAMS

7.1 Personnel being considered for initial certification complete sufficient organized training to

become thoroughly familiar with the principles and practices of the specified test methodrelated to the level of certification desired and applicable to the practices to be used and the

products to be tested. The training program includes sufficient examinations to assure the

necessary information has been comprehended.

7.2 Training courses shall include at least all of the topics contained in Appendix B of

ANSI/ASNT CP-189-1991 for the appropriate NDE method.

7.3 The course outline, sequence, content, amount of time spent, and depth of coverage for each

topic shall be approved by an NDE Level III. Training shall be presented by an NDE

Instructor.

7.4 The candidate for initial certification to Level III will also have had the training required for

Level I and Level II certification in each method for which certification is to be considered.

8. EXAMINATION

8.1 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Examinations to verify an individual's level of certification are given to those who can satisfy

the experience, education, training and vision acuity requirements. All levels of certification

and recertification are by examination only. Examinations may be prepared, administered,and graded by SCIENTECH or an outside agency. If examination services are provided by an

outside agency, SCIENTECH retains the responsibility for the adequacy of the program and

the certification of personnel. The administration of SCIENTECH examinations is in

accordance with 8.1.1 and 8.1.2 below.

8.1.1 Level III examinations are administered by a person certified as Level III in the

applicable method. Written examinations may be proctored by an individual selected

by the Corporate Level III.

8.1.2 A Level III examiner is responsible for conducting and grading the examinations ofcandidates for Level I and Level II certification. However, the actual administration

and grading may be specifically assigned to a Level II certified under this program in

the applicable method. Written examinations may be proctored by an individual

selected by the Level III examiner.




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8.1.3 The Practical Examination shall be administered by a Level III certified in the

applicable method.

8.2 Level I and Level II examinations to verify technical qualifications consist of three parts asfollows:

8.2.1 General – The general examination shall be approved by an NDE Level III.

Administration of the examination shall be in accordance with Section 9 of this

procedure and shall be closed-book. Reference material, such as charts, formulas,

tables, and graphs may be provided by the Level III. Questions shall be developed

which represent a cross section of the body of knowledge applicable to each method

and NDE level. The minimum number of questions required for each method and

level is listed in Table 3. Questions used in general examinations for Level I and

Level II personnel shall be similar in type and difficulty to those published by ASNT.

8.2.2 Specific – The specific examination shall be approved by an NDE Level III.

Administration shall be in accordance with Section 9 of this procedure. Appropriate

procedures, specifications, standards, and/or code sections may be provided by the

Level III. The examination shall address various examples of equipment, procedures,

and test techniques that the candidate may use in the performance of assigned duties.

The minimum number of questions required for each method and level is listed in

Table 3.

8.2.3 Practical – A practical examination shall be approved by an NDE Level III.

Administration shall be in accordance with Section 9 of this procedure. The practical

examination shall consist of the following:

8.2.3.1 Level I – The candidate shall demonstrate proficiency using the applicable

nondestructive test method to examine at least one test sample for each

technique to be used in the candidate’s job. The test samples shall be

representative of the products that the candidate will encounter in performing

the job functions.

8.2.3.2 Level II – The candidate shall demonstrate proficiency by performing the

applicable nondestructive test method in examining at least one sample per

technique and a minimum of two samples per method and by interpreting,

evaluating, and documenting the results of the examination.




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8.2.3.3 Documentation of the practical examination includes:

• Description of the specimen.

• Identification of the examination procedure used.

• A report of the examination on a standard SCIENTECH report form or the

report form in use on the project where the examination is being

performed or other suitable form.

• At least ten check points.

8.2.4 Examination questions are subject to approval by the Certifying Level III.

Certification of the individual is evidence of such approval.

8.3 LEVEL III EXAMINATIONS

The qualifications of Level III NDE personnel shall be evaluated using written examinations

and a Demonstration Examination. The written examinations shall cover the Basic, Method,

Specific, and Practical areas of knowledge as defined below. A Demonstration Examination

is required and shall be in accordance with Level II Practical Examination rules. Level III

candidates shall have high school or equivalent education.

8.3.1 The Basic Examination shall consist of at least 50 questions (required only once if

certification is sought in more than one method):

(1) Twenty to 30 percent of the questions shall cover ANSI/ASNT CP-189.

(2) Thirty to 50 percent of the questions shall be similar to the Level II questions

published by ASNT for the NDE methods referenced in ANSI/ASNT CP-189.

(3) Twenty to 30 percent of the questions shall cover applicable materials,

products, and fabrication technology.

8.3.2 The Method Examination shall consist of at least 65 questions:

(1) Twenty to 40 percent of the questions shall cover fundamentals and principles

of the method and shall be similar to published ASNT Level III questions(2) Thirty to 50 percent of the questions shall cover applications and

establishment of procedures and techniques and shall be similar to published

ASNT Level III questions.




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(3) Twenty to 30 percent of the questions shall cover the capability to interpret

codes, standards, and specifications for the method.

8.3.3 The Specific Examination shall contain at least 30 questions covering equipment,techniques, procedures, and administration of SCIENTECH's written practice. The

Specific Examination shall also cover the NDE requirements of ASME Section XI,

including acceptance standards and referenced codes and standards.

8.3.4 Practical Examination – The candidate shall prepare an NDE procedure appropriate to

the employer’s needs; however, if documented experience demonstrates that the

candidate has previously prepared acceptable NDE procedures in the NDE method

using the specifications, codes, and standards that are applicable to that employer, a

written practical examination (for example, preparation of a procedure) is not

required. If experience is substituted for the written practical examination, the

employer shall document the pertinent practical experience of the Level III candidate.

8.3.5 An ASNT Level III certificate with current endorsements obtained by examination

for the applicable method satisfies the Basic and Method Examination requirements.

8.3.6 When an outside agency administers the examination and only a pass or fail grade is

issued, the Employer shall assign a grade of 80% for a pass grade.

8.3.7 Administration of Level III Examinations – The employer’s representative who

administers the Level III examinations shall possess a current Level III certificate inthe method for which the examination is administered and shall be knowledgeable

and familiar with the standards, specifications, and products used or made by the

employer.

8.3.6 All questions on Level III examinations are subject to approval by the Corporate

Level III. Certification of the candidate is evidence of such approval.

9. ADMINISTRATION AND GRADING

9.1 RESPONSIBILITIES

A Level III in the applicable method shall be responsible for the administration and

grading of examinations for Level I and Level II personnel. The administration and

grading of multiple-choice questions may be delegated by the Level III if so

documented. A proctor may be designated to administer and grade written




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examinations. For the practical examination the individual administering the

examination must be a Level III in the applicable method. The Corporate Level III or

Level III designee shall develop, administer, and grade Level III specific and practical

examinations.

9.2 Employer Examinations and Examinations administered by and Outside Agency

For each employer-administered certification examination, each candidate shall

achieve a grade of at least 80% to be eligible for certification. Failure to detect 80%

of the known indications (natural or artificial) in the test part(s) will result in the

candidate failing the practical examination. All certification examinations shall have

equal weight in determining the composite grade. When examinations are graded by

an outside agency and a pass/fail system is used, a grade of 80% shall be assigned to

all “pass” grades.

9.3 Prerequisites for Passing Practical Examinations

A prerequisite for passing the Level I and Level II practical examinations shall be the

detection of the discontinuities or conditions previously specified by the Level III. A

prerequisite for passing the Level III practical examination shall be detection, if

performance of examinations is required, and correct evaluation, if evaluation is

required, of the discontinuities or conditions previously specified by the Level III.

9.3.1 Level I Practical Examinations

The Level III shall use a written checklist in administering and grading Level

I practical examinations. This checklist shall address at least the following

items: proficiency in use of equipment and technique, proper adherence to

procedure, test sequence, calibrations, materials, documentation, and extent of

examinations. If the Level I will interpret or evaluate results, the checklist

shall include these item(s).

9.3.2 Level II Practical Examinations

The Level III shall use a written checklist in administering and grading Level

II practical examinations. The checklist shall address at least the following

items: proficiency in use of techniques and equipment; proper adherence to

procedure, test sequence, calibration, and materials; satisfactory detection and

location of discontinuities; proper extent of examination; and the accuracy and




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completeness of interpretations, evaluations, and documentation of the

activities and test results.

9.3.3 Level III Practical Examinations

The Level III administering Level III practical examinations shall use a

written checklist. The checklist shall address items relating to the technical

and practical adequacy of the procedure(s) prepared by the candidate.

9.4 REEXAMINATION

Candidates who fail to attain the required passing grade must receive additional

documented training, or wait at least thirty days for reexamination. This training

shall address the deficiencies which caused failure. A candidate shall not be

reexamined using the examination or specimens previously failed.

9.5 ADMINISTRATION OF EXAMINATIONS

In no case shall an examination be prepared or administered by one’s self or by one’s

subordinate. A Level III may prepare and administer examinations for other Level III

candidates.

10. CERTIFICATION

10.1 RESPONSIBILITY

Responsibility for certification of all Level III individuals rests with the Corporate Level III.

Responsibility for designation of NDE Instructor personnel and certification of all Level I

and Level II personnel rests with certified Level III employees.

10.2 PREVIOUS EMPLOYMENT QUALIFICATIONS

10.2.1 Any prior experience, education or training claimed by the candidate that is utilized

for certification must be verified by the person responsible for certification or an

individual selected by the Corporate Level III. This experience, education or training

must be documented and placed on file by the verifier. Any claimed training and

experience which cannot be verified and documented shall be considered invalid.




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10.3 CERTIFICATION PROCEDURE

The Level III examiner responsible for certifying an individual signs a Certificate of

Qualification (Exhibit 1) which certifies that the individual has satisfied all of thequalification requirements of this procedure for the applicable level of certification. If the

certification is restricted to a particular application of the method, the restriction is noted in

the "Certification Restrictions" section of the Certificate of Qualification.

10.4 CERTIFICATION DOCUMENTATION

The Service Line manager, is responsible for assuring the following documentation is on file:

10.4.1 A copy of revisions to this document under which personnel are currently certified.

10.4.2 Personnel records of certified individuals containing:

• Name of the individual.

• Level of certification and NDE method.

• Completed Certificate of Qualification similar to Exhibit 1.

• Documentation of required educational background of certified individuals.

• Documentation of required experience of certified individuals.

• Statements and records of satisfactory completion of required training.

• A vision acuity report (Exhibit 2) referenced by the current Certificate(s) of

Qualification.

• Current examinations administered by SCIENTECH and grades for all previous

examinations.

• Results of current examinations expressed in actual grade percent, percentile

weight and composite or average score.

• Statement or other documentation supporting yearly verification of work

performed in the method.

• Dates of certification and/or recertification and the dates of assignment to NDE.

• Signature of the certifying Level III examiner.




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10.4.3 Records of additional qualification as described in 6.5 above are maintained as above

but need not be recorded on the Certificate of Qualification (Exhibit 1).

10.5 This procedure addresses only those records which must be kept at the SCIENTECHoffice for currently certified individuals. The requirements for historical and jobsite

records may be found in other documents.

11. RECERTIFICATION

11.1 Level I and Level II examiners shall be recertified by examination every three years and a

Level III examiners shall be recertified by examination every five years.

11.1.1 Level III NDE personnel shall be recertified using the written Method and Specific

Examinations plus the Practical and Demonstration Examination. Alternatively,

Level III personnel may be certified using only the written Method and Specific

Examinations provided the following conditions are met:

1. the Level III candidate was previously certified or recertified using all the

written examinations and the Demonstration Examination.

2. the Level III candidate is not being recertified due to interrupted service.

Interrupted service is defined as not functioning in the capacity for which the

individual is certified for more than 12 months.

11.2 Evidence that the individual has functioned in the capacity for which he is certified is

verified on a yearly basis. Verification is accomplished by one of the following:

• A statement, signed by a site supervisor or management personnel, which states that the

individual functioned in the capacity for which certified.

• A SCIENTECH or client time sheet which lists work performed in the particular method,

and which is signed by a site supervisor or management personnel.

• A copy of an actual inspection report form which has been submitted to, and approved

by, the customer and which has been signed by the certified individual.

• A performance demonstration of an examination and completion of an examination datasheet which is verified and co-signed by a Level III examiner.




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12. EXPIRATION, SUSPENSION, REVOCATION, AND

REINSTATEMENT OF CERTIFICATION

12.1 EXPIRATION

Individual certifications shall expire:

12.1.1 at the end of three years for Level I and Level II individuals;

12.1.2 for Level III individuals, at the end of 5 years.

12.2 SUSPENSION

The employer shall suspend an individual’s certification if:

12.2.1 the vision examination interval exceeds one year. Certification is reinstated

concurrently with passing the vision reexamination; or

12.2.2 the individual has not performed the duties in the method(s) for which certified

during any consecutive twelve month period; or

12.2.3 the individual’s performance is determined to be deficient in the required method or

technique for specific documented reasons.

12.3 REVOCATION

12.3.1 the individual has not performed the duties in the method(s) for which certified

during any consecutive twenty-four month period; or

12.3.2 an individual’s conduct is deemed by the employer to be or have been unethical or

incompetent.

12.4 REINSTATEMENT

12.4.1 Suspended Certifications

Reinstatement of suspended certifications for Level I and Level II shall be

determined by the Level III. Reinstatement of suspended Level III

certifications shall be determined by the Corporate Level III or his designee.

12.4.2 Expired or Revoked Certifications

Certifications which have expired or been revoked may be reinstated by

complying with Section 6.




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TABLE 2

INITIAL TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

FOR

LEVEL I AND LEVEL II

Method RT MT UT/T PT ET LT

Technique PCMT MSLT

Level I II I II I II I II I II I II I II

R e q u i r e d T

r a i n i n g

( H o u r s )

40 40 12 8 20 20 8 8 12 40 24 16 40 24

( M i n i m u m

H o u r s

I n M e t h o d )

200 600 65 200 65 135 65 135 65 600 100 265 265 400

R e q u i r e d E

x p e r i e n c e

( T o t a l

H o u r s i n

N D E )

400 1200 130 400 130 270 130 270 130 1200 200 530 530 800

RT = Radiographic Testing LT = Leak Testing

MT = Magnetic Particle Testing PCMT = Measurement Test

UT/T = Ultrasonic Testing Thickness PCT = Pressure Change Measurement Test

PT = Penetrant Testing MSLT = Mass Spectrometer Leak Test

ET = Electromagnetic Testing

Notes:A. Experience shall be based on the actual hours worked in the specific method.

B. A person may be qualified directly to NDE Level II with no time as a certified NDE Level I, providing the

required experience consists of the sum of the hours required for NDE Level I and NDE Level II.C. The required minimum experience shall be documented by method and by hour with supervisor or NDE Level

III permission.

D. While fulfilling total NDE experience requirement, experience may be gained in more than one (1) method.

Minimum experience hours must be met for each method.




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TABLE 3

EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS

The numbers listed indicate the minimum number of questions required for certification.

Level I

RT MT UT/T PT ET PCMT MSLT

General 40 30 20 30 40 20 20

Specific 20 20 20 20 30 15 20

Practical D D D D D D D

Level II RT MT UT/T PT ET PCMT MSLT

General 40 30 40 30 40 20 20

Specific 20 15 20 15 20 15 40


Level II Total - Direct Certification

RT MT UT/T PT ET PCMT MSLT

General 40 30 40 30 40 20 20

Specific 20 15 20 15 20 15 40


D - Demonstrations, as described in main document




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EXHIBIT 1




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EXHIBIT 2



Document Number

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APPENDIX A

RADIOGRAPHIC EXAMINATION

A. Categories

1. There are six categories of RT certification:

a. Gamma Only

b. Gamma Only without Film Interpretation.

c. X-Ray Only.

d. X-Ray Only without Film Interpretation.

e. Film Interpretation Only.

f. Unrestricted.

2. Level II individuals may be given a category of certification which restricts them

from film interpretation, or to film interpretation.

3. Level III personnel are certified in the unrestricted category only.

4. Certification in accordance with this procedure, for all levels, is for film radiography

only. Individuals performing Fluoroscopy or other real-time imaging radiography are

certified as required by the project documents.

B. Testing

1. Three types of general examinations may be given which will lead to Gamma, X-ray

or Unrestricted certification.

2. The specific examination may be the same for each type of certification.

3. A practical examination is given corresponding to the type of certification sought.

The practical examination for Level I individuals consists of the production and quality

evaluation of a satisfactory radiograph.

The practical examination for Level II individuals consists of two parts, each of which must

be passed with a grade of at least 80%. The average score of the two parts is used in

computation of the composite grade.



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The first part is the production and evaluation of an acceptable radiograph. The second part

consists of the interpretation of at least ten (10) radiographs which display various types of

material/film/technique defects.

An individual restricted to film interpretation need not take the first part of the practical

examination.

An individual restricted from film interpretation need not take the second part of the practical

examination.

An individual failing the film interpretation portion of the practical examination may be

certified as a Level II restricted from film interpretation.

C. Upgrading

1. To upgrade a Gamma Only or X-ray Only certification to an Unrestricted

certification, the individual must pass the unrestricted general examination, and the

Gamma and X-ray practical examination.

2. To remove a No Film Interpretation restriction, the film interpretation portion of the

practical examination must be passed with a grade of at least 80%.

3. When an individual's certification is upgraded, a new Certificate of Qualification is

issued and "Unrestricted" or the upgraded restrictions are noted in the "Certification

Restrictions" section of the form. The expiration date of the original certificationremains unchanged.



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APPENDIX B

ULTRASONIC THICKNESS

A. General

This Appendix provides conditions unique to the Ultrasonic Thickness method (UT/T).

B. Training and Experience

Training and experience requirements for UT/T are shown in Table 2.

C. Testing

1. The UT general or specific examination may be used for UT/T certification or special

UT/T examinations with the minimum number of questions as shown in Table 3 may

be administered for the UT/T qualification.

2. A separate practical examination is given for the Thickness Technique. For UT

Thickness practical examination, the calibration of an ultrasonic flaw detection

instrument as well as a Digital Thickness instrument is required. Also measurements

on a prescribed test sample using both instrument types are required. This

examination is performed in accordance with a procedure acceptable to the certifying

Level III.

3. An individual presently holding a UT Level I certificate need not take the UT/T

written examinations.

4. When an individual presently certified for thickness is upgraded to the UT method, a

new Certificate of Qualification is issued and "Unrestricted" is noted in the

"Certification Restrictions" section of the form. The expiration date of the original

certification remains unchanged. The additional training received to comply with

Table 4.2.2-1 is noted in the training section of the Certificate of Qualification.

5. A Level II UT authorized by a Level III may proctor the examinations for UT/T.



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APPENDIX C

CERTIFICATION OF ULTRASONIC EXAMINERS TO ASME SECTION XI

APPENDIX VII

1. SCOPE

1.1 This Appendix specifies requirements for the training qualification and certification of

ultrasonic nondestructive examination (NDE) personnel performing UT examinations to

the requirements of ASME Section XI, Appendix VII.

1.2 Personnel shall be qualified in accordance with this base document as modified by this

Appendix.

1.3 Personnel who are currently certified to earlier code editions are not required to recertify

to this Appendix until their present certification is due for recertification.

1.4 Performance demonstration requirements are beyond the scope of this procedure.

Personnel required to meet the performance demonstration requirements of ASME

Section XI, Appendix VIII shall successfully complete the Performance Demonstration

Initiative or other approved program.

2. GENERAL

2.1 USE OF AN OUTSIDE AGENCY

2.1.1 An outside agency may be used to provide Level III, NDE Instructor,qualification, or testing services. An outside agency is defined as an organization

that is recognized and acknowledged throughout the NDE industry. ASNT, EPRI,

and PDI are acceptable outside agencies. Other outside agencies may be used

provided they are on the SCIENTECH Approved Vendors List (AVL).

a. The outside agency shall maintain a written practice that specifies the

documentation to be maintained in the qualification records.

b. The qualification records of the outside agency shall include:

• qualification examinations

• candidate's name

• certification level

• date of examination

• overall course grade

• examination grade



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3.2 CONFIDENTIALITY

3.2.1 Security of all test materials shall be controlled by the Corporate Level III.

3.2.2 The Corporate Level III may designate an individual to maintain the

confidentiality of qualification materials.

3.2.3 Qualification materials shall be maintained in secure files. Access to these files

shall be limited to the Corporate Level III, Certification Administrator or an

individual designated by the Corporate Level III.

4. QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

4.1 EXPERIENCE

4.1.1 Initial Certification for Ultrasonic Examination Table 4.1.1-1 lists the required

experience for initial certification for ultrasonic examination.

4.1.2 Experience Options for Level III Personnel The three experience options

identified in Table 4.1.1-1 for qualification as a Level III are as follows.

4.1.2.1 Option 1 Graduate of a 4 year accredited engineering or science college or

university with a degree in engineering or science, plus 2 years experience

in NDE in an assignment comparable to that of an NDE Level II in the

ultrasonic examination method. At least 1 year of this experience shall be

in nuclear applications and shall include the actual performance of

examinations and evaluation of examination results.

4.1.2.2 Option 2 Completion with a passing grade of at least the equivalent of 2

full years of engineering or science study at a university, college, or

technical school, plus 3 years experience in an assignment comparable to

that of a Level II in the ultrasonic examination method. At least 2 years of

this experience shall be in nuclear applications and shall include the actual

performance of examinations and evaluation of examination results.

4.1.2.3 Option 3 High school graduate, or equivalent, plus 4 years experience in

an assignment comparable to that of a Level II in the ultrasonic

examination method. At least 2 years of this experience shall be in nuclear

applications and shall include the actual performance of examinations and

evaluation of examination results.



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Table 4.1.1-1

Required Experience for Initial

Certification for Ultrasonic

Examination (Hours)

Trainee Level I Level II Level III

None 250 800 4200/2100 (Option 1)

6300/4200 (Option 2)

8400/4200 (Option 3)

General Notes:

a) For Level II certification, the experience shall consist of time at

Level I. To certify a candidate directly to Level II with no time at

Level I, the total experience hours required for Level I plus Level

II shall apply.

b) When exercising the options for Level III (e.g., Option 1:

4200/2100), the first figure specifies the required total experience.

The second figure specifies the amount of experience that shall be

in nuclear applications.

c) The simultaneous experience provision in SNT-TC-1A is not

applicable.

4.1.3 Experience Records

a) The records maintained by SCIENTECH to substantiate experience for

initial certification to each level shall include the activity performed, the

number of hours performing the method, and the level of certification.

b) Experience during previous employment may be accepted where such

experience is supported by documentation. The documentation may be a

copy of an experience record form obtained from the previous Employer

or a written statement signed by a cognizant, responsible member of the previous Employer's staff attesting to the type and extent of ultrasonic

examination experience to be credited. A Level III shall be responsible for

reviewing the documentation and judging previous experience for

acceptability under SCIENTECH's written practice.



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4.2 TRAINING

4.2.1 Program, Facilities, and Materials

a) For initial certification, personnel shall successfully complete a training

program outlined in Supplement 1.

b) Training shall be conducted by an NDE Instructor except that portions of

the training may be conducted by individuals designated by the NDE

Instructor.

c) Classroom and laboratory facilities shall be provided.

d) Training course materials shall be prepared and made available to the

candidate.

e) Training courses conducted by recognized schools or organizations such

as ASNT, EPRI, equipment manufacturers, or branches of the military

may be used.

4.2.2 Training Course Content and Duration

a) Training course content shall be in accordance with Supplement 1.

b) The initial training hours shall be as specified in Table 4.2.2-1.

Table 4.2.2-1

Initial Training Hours(Classroom/Laboratory)

Level I Level II Level III

40/40 40/40 40/0

General Notes:

a) To certify a candidate directly to Level II with no time at Level I, the total

hours of training required for Level I plus Level II shall apply.

b) To certify a candidate directly to Level III with no time at Level I or Level

II, the total hours of training required for Level I plus Level II plus Level

III shall apply.

c) Industrial or academic training courses covering the topics listed in 9.0 of

Supplement 1 may be credited toward the training required for Level III

personnel.



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d) The hours of instruction devoted to each subject in Supplement 1 shall be

determined by the NDE Instructor.

4.2.3 For individuals who have been previously qualified to Level I or Level II but do

not have the cumulative training hours in the ultrasonic method required by Table4.2.2.1, additional training shall be required prior to requalification.

4.2.3.1 The additional training shall be structured such that the individuals

previous training and additional training taken together meet the

requirements of Table 4.2.2.1 and Supplement 1.

4.2.3.2 The additional training shall be conducted by an NDE Instructor.

4.2.4 Evaluation of Initial Training Effectiveness

a) If the qualification examination for certification (4.3) is not given at theconclusion of training, a final course examination shall be given. A grade

of 70% is necessary to receive credit for the training hours.

b) When an individual fails a final course examination, additional training

shall be required prior to reexamination. The additional training shall

address the areas of weakness exhibited by the individual and shall be

documented by the NDE Instructor.

4.2.5 Annual Training

a) A minimum of 10 hours per year of supplemental training is required. The

subject of the training will vary according to new developments, industry

events, or site specific requirements as determined by SCIENTECH.

b) Supplemental training may be provided by outside sources such as

technical seminars, EPRI training courses, site specific training, etc.

c) Training shall be approved by a SCIENTECH UT Level III.

d) A record of attendance and the topics covered during training shall be

maintained on a yearly basis.



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4.3 EXAMINATIONS

To be considered for examination, the Level I, II, and III candidates shall have

successfully completed the training required in 4.2.

4.3.1 Examination Questions and Test Specimens

a) For each written examination administered as part of the qualification

examination, a "question bank" containing at least twice the minimum

number of questions required per examination shall be available. Each

qualification examination shall be assembled from the question bank using

a random selection process. No individual shall take the same examination

more than once.

b) For each practical examination that does not use specimens prepared for

UT performance demonstrations (i.e., Appendix VIII) and is administered

as part of the qualification examination, a "specimen bank" containing at

least five flaws shall be available. The flaws in the specimen bank shall be

simulated flaws not exceeding the standards of IWB-3500, actual flaws, or

a mixture of both. The specimen set for each practical examination shall

be assembled from the specimen bank using a random selection process.

Blank (sound) test specimens shall be included in the specimen set so that

no more than one-third of the specimens in the set contain flaws required

to be detected. The specimens shall be masked such that flawed and blankspecimens cannot be identified and the flaw locations are not visible.

4.3.2 Level I and II Qualification Examinations

4.3.2.1 Level I and II General Examinations

The General Examination shall be a written, closed book examination

containing a minimum of 40 questions. The examination shall cover the

technical principles relative to the ultrasonic (UT) method.

4.3.2.2 Level I and II Specific Examinations

a) The Specific Examination shall be a written examination

containing a minimum of 40 questions. Necessary data, such as

graphs, tables, specifications, procedures, and Codes shall be

furnished.



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b) Forty percent to 60 percent of the specific examination questions

shall cover Section XI NDE requirements. The remaining

questions shall cover procedures and specifications applicable to

the UT method.

4.3.2.3 Level I and II Practical Examinations

a) Candidates shall demonstrate to the satisfaction of a Level III that

they are familiar with and can perform the applicable UT

examinations using suitable calibration blocks and written UT

procedures prepared for examination of plant components.

b) The Practical Examination for Level II candidates shall include

examination of a specimen set that complies with 4.3.1(b).

Alternately, successful completion of a UT performance

demonstration in accordance with Appendix VIII of Section XI

may serve as this practical examination.

c) An assessment report containing at least ten check points shall be

used to evaluate the candidate's performance using longitudinal

and shear wave techniques. The following check points shall be

included:

(1) scanning technique

(2) equipment set-up and calibration

(3) selection of search unit

(4) data recording (Level I and II)

(5) NDE report (Level II)

(6) evaluation in terms of the recording criteria (Level II)

d) A description of the specimens and the calibration blocks, the

procedures used, the assessment report, and the examination report prepared by the candidate shall be retained as part of the

certification records.



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e) The Level I Practical examination shall be in accordance with the

Level I Practical Examination requirements of paragraph 8.2.3.1 of

the base document.

4.3.3 Level III Qualification Examinations

a) The Level III Examination shall be in accordance with paragraph 8.3 of

the base document except that the demonstration examination shall meet

the requirements of paragraph 4.3.2.3(b) of Appendix C. In addition, forty

to 60% of questions on the specific examination shall cover Section XI UT

examination, evaluation and acceptance criteria.

b) Level III personnel shall be recertified using the written Method and

Specific Examinations plus the Practical and Demonstration Examination.

Alternatively, Level III personnel may be recertified using only the written

Method and Specific Examinations provided the following conditions are

met:

1. The Level III candidate was previously certified or recertified

using all the written examinations and the Demonstration

Examination.

2. The Level III candidate is not being recertified due to interrupted

service as defined in Appendix C paragraph 4.4.

4.3.4 Administration of Examinations

4.3.4.1 Level I and II General, Specific, and Practical Examinations

a) The General, Specific, and Practical Examinations shall be

approved, administered, and graded by a Level III. The candidate

shall perform the Practical Examinations using procedures,

techniques, and equipment complying with Section XI

requirements on specimens not used for training.

b) Written examinations may be proctored by an individual selected

by the responsible Level III.



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4.3.4.2 Level III Basic, Method, Specific and Practical Examinations

a) The Level III Basic and Method examination shall be administered

and graded by an outside agency.

b) The Specific, Practical, and Demonstration Examinations shall be

approved, administered, and graded by a Level III employed by an

outside agency or SCIENTECH.

4.3.5 Grading of Examinations

Examination grading shall be in accordance with Paragraph 9.0 of the base

document with the following modification: For Level II practical and Level III

Demonstration examination, a maximum false call rate of 10% shall be imposed.

That is, calling more than 10% of the blank grading units cracked will result in the

candidate failing the practical/demonstration examination.

4.3.6 Reexamination

a) Those individuals failing to pass a qualification examination must receive

additional training as determined by the Level III. This determination shall

be based on the topics or subjects on which the individual failed to attain a

passing grade.

b) The reexamination questions shall be assembled by a random selection

process or the examination shall contain at least 30% different orreworded questions. The Practical Examination test specimen set shall

contain at least 50% different flaws from those used during the most

recent Practical Examination that was not passed by the candidate.

c) No individual shall be reexamined more than twice within any consecutive

12 month period.

4.4 INTERRUPTED SERVICE

Personnel who have not performed the duties associated with their certification level

during any consecutive 12 month period shall be considered to have interrupted service

and shall be required to successfully complete a Practical Examination (Level I and II

personnel), or a Specific Examination (Level III personnel), to assure continued

proficiency prior to further assignment to perform Ultrasonic examinations. The results

of this examination shall be documented and maintained as part of the individual's

certification records.



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5. QUALIFICATION RECORDS

5.1 PRE-CERTIFICATION RECORDS

Prior to certification or recertification, the records of the individual shall include the

following:

a) name of the individual;

b) qualification level;

c) educational background and experience;

d) statement indicating satisfactory completion of training, including training hours,

dates attended, and training institution;

e) record of annual supplemental training;

f) results of vision examinations;

g) current qualification examination results, with traceability to the actual

examination; and

h) grade assigned to each qualification examination.

5.2 CERTIFICATION RECORDS

In addition to the records required in 5.1, the records of certified individuals shall include

the following:

a) date of current certification and expiration date;

b) name and signature of certifying SCIENTECH representative; and

c) evidence of continued proficiency (Refer para 4.4).

5.3 MAINTENANCE OF RECORDS

The qualification records shall be maintained by SCIENTECH. In addition, outside

agencies that perform training and qualification activities shall maintain the qualification

records specified in para. 2.1 of this appendix.



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APPENDIX C- SUPPLEMENTS

Supplement 1 - Minimum Content of Initial Training Courses for the Ultrasonic Examination

Method.

1.0 Fundamental Properties of Sound

1.1 Frequency, velocity, and wavelength

1.2 Definition of ultrasonic vibrations

1.3 General application of ultrasonic vibrations

2.0 Principles of Wave Propagation

2.1 Modes of vibration

2.2 Acoustic impedance

2.3 Reflection

2.4 Refraction and mode conversion2.5 Diffraction, dispersion, and attenuation

2.6 Fresnel and Fraunhofer effects

3.0 Generation of Ultrasonic Waves

3.1 Piezoelectricity and types of crystals

3.2 Construction of ultrasonic search units

3.3 Characteristics of search units

(a) Frequency-crystal thickness relationships

(b) Conversion efficiencies of various crystals

(c) Damping and resolution

(d Beam intensity characteristics

(e) Divergence

3.4 Care of search units

4.0 Ultrasonic Testing Techniques

4.1 Contact testing

(a) Straight beam

(b) Angle beam

(c) Surface wave(d) Lamb wave

(e) Through transmission



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4.2 Immersion testing

(a) Straight beam

(b) Angle beam

(c) Through transmission

4.3 Modified immersion testing

(a) Tests employing special devices

4.4 Resonance testing

4.5 Geometric indications, flaw indications, and methods of discrimination

4.6 Flaw sizing

5.0 Ultrasonic Testing Equipment

5.1 Description of basic pulse-echo instrument

(a) Time-base (synchronizer) circuit

(b) Pulser circuit

(c) A-scan display circuit

5.2 Special instruments

(a) B-scan display

(b) C-scan display

(c) Monitors and recording devices

5.3 Scanning equipment

(a) Manipulators

(b) Bridges

(c) Special scanning devices

6.0 Operation of Specific Equipment

6.1 General operating characteristics

6.2 Functional block diagram of circuits

6.3 Purpose and adjustment of external controls

6.4 Care of equipment and calibration blocks

7.0 Specific Testing Procedures

7.1 Selection of test parameters

(a) Frequency

(b) Search unit size and type

(c) Water distance (immersed test)

(d) Scanning speed and index



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7.2 Test standardization

(a) Ultrasonic reference blocks

(b) Adjustment of test sensitivity

7.3 Interpretation of results

(a) Acceptance standards

(b) Comparison between responses from discontinuities to those from

ultrasonic reference standards

(c) Estimated length of discontinuities

(d) Location of discontinuities

(e) Zoning

7.4 Test records

(a) Data sheets

(b) Maps

(c) Identification stamps and certification

7.5 Equipment performance variations

8.0 Variables Affecting Test Results

8.1 Instrument performance variations

8.2 Search unit performance variations

8.3 Inspected parts variations

(a) Entry surface condition

(b) Part size and geometry

(c) Metallurgical structure

8.4 Discontinuity variations(a) Size and geometry

(b) Distance from entry point

(c) Orientation to entry surface

(d) Discontinuity types and reflecting characteristics

9.0 Additional Training for Level III Candidates

9.1 Nuclear power plant design, function, and system operation

9.2 Materials, metal processing, fabrication technology, failure mechanisms, and

fracture mechanics techniques

9.3 Review of NDE methods commonly used during ISI9.4 Administration of NDE personnel qualification and certification practices and

instructional techniques

9.5 Code, standard, and regulatory requirements

9.6 Procedure preparation

PROCEDURE FOR CERTIFYING NONDESTRUCTIVE EXAMINATION PERSONNEL

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