ANDE-1: An ASME Nondestructive Examination and Quality Control Qualification and Certification National Standard

Abstract

The American Society for Mechanical Engineers (ASME) is developing and implementing a Nondestructive Examination (NDE) and Quality Control (QC) personnel qualification and certification program (ANDE). In keeping with ASME development of codes and standards the NDE program will be assembled by industry experts and administered centrally by ASME. A new ASME standard recognized by ANSI is being developed as the core of the program and will be based upon industry best practices. The total program is a significant paradigm change from the traditional employer based and other central qualification and certification programs, the new standard will include features such as the Systematic Approach to Training, Job Task Analysis and Qualification Cards to direct the development of training and experience. The program was designed to improve the skill level and consistency amongst NDE practitioners and will use the performance-based approach including psychometric practices in the development of both written and practical demonstration examinations. This paper will primarily focus on the development of the standard and its salient features.