NDT Personnel Qualification—An ISO Perspective

Abstract

Subcommittee 7, “Personnel Qualification,” of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Technical Committee 135, “Nondestructive Testing,” has been working since 1983 on the development of an international standard for the qualification and certification of nondestructive testing personnel. The document is based on fundamental principles proposed by the International Committee for Nondestructive Testing (ICNDT). The draft international standard (DIS 9712) was circulated for letter ballot in early 1990. General international agreement on DIS 9712's key elements of central certification at three levels in individual nondestructive testing (NDT) methods has been reached. The document has earned the support of developing countries, who embraced it even in its earliest format as a model for new national standards, and who, through their regional organizations, contributed significantly to its development. As we enter 1992, the pressure for a universally acceptable standard which permits mobility of personnel, boasts broad general international acceptance, and maintains the high level of competence needed in NDT will lead to agreement on the international level. A comprehensive ISO standard for the qualification of NDT personnel will facilitate international trade in capital goods and services.