DIFFERENT APPROACHES TO WELDING TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION

Some confusion in the terminology concerning the weld quality and its assurance seems caused by the different practises currently in use around the world. Qualified welding personnel are not automatically certified personnel. Education and training are the tools to obtain qualification. Flexibility in training and education seems logical and the most cost-effective way to obtain qualified personnel. A third party seems essential for issuing recognised Certificates. Manufacturers of welded products continue to face increased demands and concerns regarding weld quality. The following are the main conditions influencing weld quality: $\bigcirc$ Establishing reliable productions procedures and tests that meet the requirements of established codes and standards. $\bigcirc$ Finding qualified welding personnel capable of reliably carrying out established welding procedures. The issue of hiring and keeping skilled welding personnel has been a crucial consideration for manufacturers worldwide for the past few decades. It will continue to be a concern for decades to come.