The Powers and Duties of Welding Inspectors

A welding inspector shall have the following powers and duties:

1. Verify that the work which he inspects conforms to the requirements of the applicable codes, standards, and job specifications;

2. Verify that the base materials and consumable welding materials conform to the specification requirements and that the specified welding filler metals are used on each base metal or combination of base metals;

3. Verify that the welding equipment to be used for the work is that which is specified in the welding procedure and has the capability to produce the specified welds;

4. Verify that the welding procedures are as specified, qualified, and available to the welders for reference;

5. Verify that the welders have been properly qualified in accordance with the applicable codes and standards, and that their qualification authorizes them to use the welding procedures specified for the work. If there is evidence that the welder's work does not conform to the requirements of the applicable code, standard or specification, the welding inspector may require requalifcation of a welder, if that person's qualification is not current by the requirements of the applicable codes, standards, or specifications;
6. When qualifying welders, the welding inspector shall observe the qualifications tests;
7. Verify that only specified and properly qualified welding procedures are used for the work;
8. Verify that the joint preparation and fit-up meets the requirements of the welding procedure and drawings;
9. Verify that the specified filler metals are used and that the filler metals are maintained in proper condition for use as specified;
10. Observe the technique and performance of each welder;
11. Examine the work for conformance to the requirements of the applicable codes, standards, specifications, and drawings;
12. Identify the work he inspects with specified marking methods or appropriate records;
13. Perform the necessary visual inspections;
14. Verify that the required visual and other nondestructive examinations have been performed by qualified personnel in the specified manner. He shall review the resulting information to assure that the results are complete. The welding inspector may perform nondestructive examinations that are specified, providing he is qualified in accordance with the specified requirements; and
15. Prepare clear and concise reports and keep necessary records of the welding procedure, the welding procedure qualifications, the welding qualifications, the control of welding materials and the results of inspections and tests. It shall be the duty of the welding inspector to see that all test results are forwarded to the Department of Labor for issuance of welder certification cards.