Welder Certification Audit Checklist: What Inspectors Check Under ISO 9606-1

1.Check the welder’s name and ID: Look at the welder’s certificate to make sure it clearly shows their full name, welder ID number, employee records, how they are identified, and the records of the welds they have made.Make sure the welder listed on the certificate is the same one actually doing the welding.

2.Make sure the standard is right: Check that the welder’s qualification meets the correct standard, especially ISO 9606-1:2012 for steel fusion welding.Ensure the organization is following the right version of the standard and any specific needs for their project.

3.Check the welding method: The certificate should say which welding method was used during testing, like 111 (Manual metal arc), 131 (MIG), 135 (MAG), 136 (Flux-cored), or 141 (TIG).Make sure the method used in production is within the welder’s approved methods.Remember, being qualified for one method doesn’t mean they’re qualified for another.

4.Check the material used: The qualification record should list the material that was tested.Look to see if the material used in the actual production is within the approved material range.Different types of steel or materials should be handled separately.Don’t assume one test covers all types of steel just because of the standard.

5.Check the type of weld: Make sure the welder is qualified for the type of weld being done, like butt or fillet.Check that the qualification record matches the actual welds being made.Use ISO guidelines to help clarify what is acceptable.

6.Check welding positions: The inspector should compare the positions used during the test with the positions the welder is qualified for, such as PA or PB.The qualified range is based on how the test was set up and ISO 9606-1 rules, including how different positions affect qualifications.

7.Check thickness and size limits: Compare the thickness of the welds being made with the ranges the welder is qualified for, including the thickness of the weld deposit and the outside diameter of pipes.Make sure qualifications aren’t used beyond what’s actually allowed.

8.Check filler materials and consumables: Ensure the materials and supplies used match what’s listed in the qualification.Check classifications, designations, electrode types, and how they are identified for each welding method to stay compliant.

9.Check shielding and backing: If used, make sure the shielding gas, mixtures, and any backing materials match the qualifications.Use ISO guidelines to confirm the backing conditions are up to standard.

10.Check test results: Review the welder’s test results to see if they meet the requirements.Look at methods like visual checks, radiography, and ultrasonic testing.Make sure the results from the tests are what the qualification is based on.

11.Check continuity of work: Make sure records show that the welder has been working within their qualified limits.Look at welding logs and production records to confirm that the qualifications are still valid and relevant.

12.Check the dates and status: Look at important dates like when the test was done, when the certificate was issued, and how long it’s valid.Keep track of the requalification process to handle any expired qualifications.

13.Check WPS and WPQR: Make sure the welder’s qualification matches the welding procedure specifications (WPS) by looking at how the welder’s qualification relates to the WPS, WPQR, and the actual welds.Ensure that the welding methods used are valid and correct.

14.Check welder traceability: Make sure there’s a system to track each welder to the actual welds they made.Check how welder IDs, weld numbers, and process records are connected to ensure everything follows quality standards.

15.Check document control: Ensure all welder qualification documents are properly managed.Make sure up-to-date and expired certificates, continuity records, related processes, and test reports are easily available.A centralized system helps track and maintain compliance effectively.