A certified welding inspector’s primary responsibility is to ensure the quality and safety of welded work in a variety of structures. Ultrasonic nondestructive testing is one of the most important tests performed by a welding inspector, and it involves checking the safety of welds in structures as well as any defects or cracks that could jeopardize the structure’s safety.
An inspector may need to use flashlights and magnifying glasses to perform some of the necessary welding tests, such as checking for cracks and testing welding strength. These are also used to see if there are any cold welds or undercuts in a welding joint.
Though welding jobs can easily damage one’s vision, particularly if the welder is not careful when using a hot rod near a metal object, welding inspectors must have perfect vision. Annual vision screenings are even required by some employers.
A welding inspector may be required to work on skyscrapers and other structures that are high off the ground, so he or she should not be afraid of heights. A welding inspector must have a thorough understanding of welding techniques and must be able to weld and test metal samples for appropriate welding techniques and processes in addition to inspecting.
An inspector is required to frequently take notes and record what he observes on the job, which necessitates excellent communication skills. Given the safety and seriousness of the issues a welding inspector is responsible for, effective communication is even more important.
Above all, a welding inspector should be qualified to conduct inspections in a particular field. This not only ensures that the welder is up to date on proper procedures and rules, but it is also something that the majority, if not all, employers demand. It is not necessary to have a high school diploma to obtain certification in the United States. When it comes to getting certified for an inspection job, welding experience is usually the most important skill. A welding inspector can work in a variety of fields, depending on the certification he receives.
The American Welding Society, which certifies welders to perform inspections on structures such as buildings and dams, is one of the organizations that offers certification in the United States. The American Petroleum Institute certifies welders for petroleum vessel welding and inspection, while the American Society of Mechanical Engineers certifies welders for pressure vessel inspection, such as steam drums. Each organization has its own set of rules that the inspector must follow, known as Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS).