ASNT

so the certificate attests to training and experience too. Many employers use the certificate from ASNT to document the fulfillment of contracted inspection requirements. ACCP The ASNT Central Certification Program ( ACCP-CP-1 ) , unlike SNT-TC-1A and CP-189 , is a third-party certification process with qualification and certification criteria for Level II and Level III (not Level I) personnel. The Society certifies that the individual has the skills and knowledge for many nondestructive test applications in the method examined. For Level IIIs, the ACCP certification uses the examination result from the ASNT NDT Level III examination but goes further by using test specimens in a practical examination. The examinee can demonstrate hands-on competence. ACCP certification does not remove the responsibility for the final determination of personnel qualifications from the employer. The employer evaluates an individual’s skills and knowledge for application of company procedures by using designated techniques and identified equipment for specific tests. The program is not embodied in a standard but is described in a Society document, ASNT Central Certification Program ACCP-CP-1, which can be downloaded from the ASNT website. SAFETY IN NONDESTRUCTIVE TESTING The first obligation in a nondestructive test program, as in any program, is to ensure personnel safety. Safety is discussed in detail in a separate chapter. The following are components of a safety program: 1. Identify the safety and operational rules and codes applicable to the areas, materials, equipment, and processes before work is to begin. 2. Provide proper safety equipment (safety glasses, hard hat, safety harnesses, steel toed shoes, hearing protection, others). 3. If needed, obtain a qualified assistant who knows the facility’s electrical, mechanical, or process systems.

4. Before the test, perform a thorough visual survey to determine all the hazards and identify necessary safeguards to protect test personnel and equipment. 5. Notify operative personnel to identify the location and specific equipment to be examined. In addition, determine if signs or locks restrict access by personnel. For radiographic operating radiation emitting devices and access to radiation zones. Be aware of equipment that may be operated remotely or may be started by time delay. 6. Be aware of any potentially explosive atmospheres. Determine whether it is safe to take your equipment into the area. 7. Do not enter any roped-off or restricted areas without permission and approval. 8. Determine if electrical safety training is required if testing is performed on or near energized equipment (typically associated with infrared thermography). 9. When working on or around electrical equipment, pens, watches, rings, or objects in pockets must be removed, as they may touch (or fall into) energized equipment. 10. Know interplant communication and evacuation systems. 11. Never let unqualified personnel operate equipment. 12. Keep a safe distance between personnel and any energized equipment. In the United States, these distances can be found in documents from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the National Fire Prevention Association’s National Electric Code (NFPA), the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers’ National Electrical Safety Code (IEEE), and other organizations. 13. Be aware of the personnel responsibilities before entering a confined space. All such areas must be tested satisfactorily for gas and oxygen levels before entry and periodically thereafter. If odors are noticed, or unusual sensations such as earaches, dizziness, or difficulty in breathing are experienced, leave the area immediately. Safety is always the first consideration for every job. operations, state or federal laws identify requirements for restricting/controlling

CHAPTER 1

30

Part 3