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REQUIREMENTS FOR WELDER QUALIFICATION

TESTING CENTER (WQTC)
UNDER THE
SWS COMMON WELDER QUALIFICATION SCHEME
PART IV
Prepared by Committee on
SWS CWQS Welder Qualification Testing Centres
October 2007
SINGAPORE WELDING SOCIETY
No 3 Science Park Drive
Singapore Science Park 1
The Franklin #02-12/25 Suite 20
Singapore 118223
Tel : 6779 7706 Fax : 6464 0186 Website : www.sws.org.sg
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SWS CWQS Committee on Welder Qualification Testing Centres
SWS acknowledge the contributions from the following members in producing this document:
1. June Contreras Chairman Setsco Services Pte Ltd
2. Heng Keng Wah Member Singapore Welding Society
3. Tan Beng Hock Member Ace Quality Testing & Inspection Svcs P L
4. Chw Yai Lai Member UTC Testing Co. Pte Ltd
5. Ravindra V Gadamsetti Member UTC Testing Co. Pte Ltd
6. Lim Teck Mong Member SGS Testing & Control Svcs Spore P L
7. Gan Ee Cheong Member Singapore Test Svcs P L
8. Albert Kee Member Weldtech Inspection Svcs (S) P L
9. Lie Hi Jam Member ITE Geylang Serai Vocational Training
Institute
References
Due acknowledgement is given to the following sources of information where relevant references have
been made:
1. SINGLAS 001: The Singapore Laboratory Accreditation Scheme Regulations, 1995
2. SAC-SINGLAS 002: SAC-SINGLAS Requirements for the Applications of ISO/IEC 17025,
2001
3. ISO/IEC 17025 (First Edition, 1999-12-15) General Requirements for the Competence of
Testing and Calibration Laboratories
4. IIW Document IAB-041-2001/EWF-450, Revision 1, April 2004: Minimum Requirements for
the Education and Training of International Welding Inspection Personnel
5. AWS QC4-89: Standard for Accreditation of Test Facilities for AWS Certified Welder
Program
6. ASME Section V: Non-destructive Examination
7. ASME Section IX: Qualification Standard for Welding and Brazing procedures, Welders,
Braziers, and Welding and Brazing Operators.
8. AWS D1.1: Structural Welding Code Steel
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9. ISO/IEC 17011: Conformity assessment General Requirements for accreditation bodies
accrediting conformity assessment bodies
10. SWS Common Welder Qualification Scheme Document, 2006:
Part I: Administrative Procedure for SWS CWQS
Part II: Requirements of Welder Qualification Test for SWS CWQS
Part III: Requirements of Welder Training Centres for SWS CWQS
Part IV: Requirement for Welder Qualification Testing Centres (WQTC) for SWS CWQS
Part V: Requirements of Recruitment Centres for SWS CWQS
(This set of documents is Revision 2 of the original set published in 1994.)
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TABLE OF CONTENT
Page No.
SWS CWQS Committee on Welder Qualification Testing Centres 2
References 2 - 3
Table of content 4
1. Scope 5
2. Definitions 5 - 6
3. Organisation and Management 6
4. Assessment of Welder Testing Centres for Certification as Welder
Qualification Test Centres
4.1 Application for Certification
4.2 Documentation
4.3 The Audit Team
4.4 Documentation Review
4.5 The Audit Visit
4.6 Assessment Checklist
4.7 Reporting of Assessment
4.8 Grant of Certification as a Welder Qualification Test Centre
4.9 Surveillance & Spot Checks
4.10 Non-Conformity & Suspension
4.11 Re-assessment
4.12 Appeals Procedure
7 9
5. Scope of Approval
5.1 Scope of Approved Testing
5.2 Amendment of Scope between Surveillance Audits
9 - 10
6. Premises and Facilities
6.1 General
6.2 Environment of Testing Establishment
6.3 Equipment
6.4 Welding Inspection Tools and Equipment
6.5 Records of Equipment
6.6 Calibration of Equipment
10 - 12
7. Working Procedures and other Operations
7.1 Test methods and procedures
7.2 Conduct of Welder Qualification Test
7.3 Quality system
7.4 Records
7.5 Subcontracting
7.6 Cooperation with SWS
12 - 15
8. Handling of Test Samples and Storage 15
9. Safety 15
10. Personnel 15
11. Testing Materials 16
12. Fees 16
Appendix 1: The Control Manual
Appendix 2: Application Form for SWS Scheme for the Certification of
Welder Testing Centres
Appendix 3: SWS Scheme for the Certification of Welder Testing Centres
Self Audit Requirement and Records
Appendix 4: Requirements for Test Personnel
18
19 - 23
24 - 25
26 - 29
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1. SCOPE
1.1 This document establishes the minimum requirements for welder testing organizations and
establishments, their personnel and equipment for certification to be Welder Qualification
Testing Centres (WQTC) in the Common Welder Qualification Scheme (CWQS) of the
Singapore Welding Society (SWS). The WQTC must be a SAC SINGLAS Accredited Testing
Laboratory or Equivalent SAC SINGLAS Accredited Testing Laboratory and show that it can
meet the requirements of this document.
1.2 The certification programme is open only to SWS Corporate Members. It may be extended to
members of the Asian Welding Federation (AWF) to promote harmonisation in welding
technology in Asia.
Note: In due course, continued approval of a WQTC will depend on its meeting the International
Institute of Welding (IIW) requirements for the testing of International Welders.
2. DEFINITIONS
Approved Signatory: A person who should be a senior staff (such as technical manager or quality
manager) and authorised test personnel of the WQTC and recognised under the CWQS to sign SWS
welder qualification test certificate in compliance with the SWS CWQS requirements.
Assessment Criteria: CWQS requirements, expressed in terms, which address organisation, human
and material resources, operating procedures and practices, calibration and quality assurance practices
of a WQTC. Such requirements for a WQTC are specified in this document.
Audit of WQTC: Detailed and full technical assessment of a welder testing establishment to verify
and evaluate its compliance with the SWS CWQS requirements by two independent auditors
appointed by SWS at the application stage, during periodic re-assessment and on the re-instatement as
an approved WQTC following a suspension for serious non-conformities.
SAC SINGLAS-Accredited Testing Laboratory: A testing laboratory to which SAC-SINGLAS
accreditation has been granted under the Singapore Accreditation Council (SAC) Singapore
Laboratory Accreditation Scheme (SINGLAS).
Equivalent SAC-SINGLAS Accredited Testing Laboratory: An overseas-based foreign testing
laboratory having mutual recognition with SAC-SINGLAS under the Asia Pacific Laboratory
Accreditation Cooperation (APLAC) Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) scheme or
International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation for Testing and Calibration (ILAC) scheme and
abiding by the requirements in ISO/IEC 17011.
Scope of Approval: The location of the approved testing establishment, organisation, list of welder
test/weld testing personnel and quality system and testing capabilities for which the testing
establishment is granted approval.
Surveillance of WQTC: Routine technical assessment of a welder qualification testing establishment
to verify its continued compliance with SWS CWQS requirements by one/two independent auditor
appointed by SWS provided its SAC SINGLAS or Equivalent SAC-SINGLAS accreditation remains
valid.
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Spot Check of WQTC: Random, unsolicited visits, as and when decided by SWS secretariat, to a
WQTC by an independent auditor appointed by SWS to verify continued compliance of the WQTC
with SWS CWQS requirements specifically on the conduct of the welder qualification test.
Authorised Test Personnel: Certified welding inspectors (known as welder test personnel) or non-
destructive testing or destructive testing personnel (known as weld testing personnel) of the
appropriate levels who have met the requirements specified in SWS: CWQS: Part IV: Appendix 4.
Test Welder: A welder undergoing test(s) at a WQTC specified in accordance to SWS: CWQS: Part
IV
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, whose test specimen is evaluated by the WQTC and who shall submit authenticated documentary
evidence of having undergone a structured and formal training either at a SWS-certified WTC or other
equivalent training establishment approved by SWS.
Verification: The process of reviewing, inspecting, testing, checking, auditing or otherwise
determining and documenting whether items, processes, services and documents conform to SWS
CWQS requirements.
Welder: One who performs a manual or semiautomatic welding operation.
Welder Qualification: The demonstration of a welders ability to produce welds meeting prescribed
standards or codes.
Welder Qualification Test: A practical examination on the skill of a welder conducted by the WQTC
adhering strictly to the prescribed requirements on the conduct of the test.
Welder Qualification Test Centre (WQTC): A certificated organisation, which is authorised by
SWS to conduct the welder qualification and other tests indicated in the SWS CWQS Document
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3. ORGANISATION AND MANAGEMENT
3.1 A WQTC shall be a registered company.
3.2 It shall be a SAC SINGLAS-accredited laboratory
1, 2 & 3
at the time of application and during
every renewal as a WQTC. An overseas-based foreign laboratory in any AWF country having
mutual recognition with SAC-SINGLAS under the APLAC MRA or ILAC scheme may be
considered as a WQTC.
3.3 It shall provide a list of authorised Test Personnel in the Organisation Chart, meeting the
requirements specified in SWS: CWQS: Part IV: Appendix 4: Requirements for Test
Personnel.
3.4 It shall be organised such that test personnel not be subjected to any influence or inducement
that might adversely affect their judgement or the result of their work.
3.5 Its organisation shall include a technical manager with overall responsibility for technical
operation and for ensuring that the SWS CWQS requirements are met.
3.6 It shall specify and document the responsibility, authority and interrelation of all personnel
who manage, perform or verify work affecting the quality of tests in this scheme.
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3.7 All test reports/certificates shall be verified and signed by the authorised Test Personnel who
have witnessed the welder tests or who have conducted or supervised the welding tests.
4. ASSESSMENT OF WELDER QUALIFICATION TEST CENTRES FOR
CERTIFICATION
Initial assessment of WQTC for certification as SWS welder qualification test centres (WQTC) shall
comprise both a review of the application documentation and an on-site audit of testing establishments
carried out normally by two independent auditors appointed by SWS.
The WQTC shall be subjected to periodic surveillance visits once every three years, and a re-
assessment once every six years and on its re-instatement as an approved WQTC following a
suspension for serious non-conformities.
Approval of WQTC shall be granted for specific scope as defined in Clause 5 below. Where a WQTC
has more than one testing establishment, assessment shall be made and approval granted on an
establishment by establishment basis.
4.1 Application for Certification
Testing organisations wishing to gain SWS WQTC certification shall apply to the SWS Secretariat by
completing the standard application form (see Appendix 2) and the self audit form (see Appendix 3),
and returning these two completed forms in duplicates together with the application fee (detailed in
Clause 12) to the SWS Secretariat located at the following address:
Singapore Welding Society
No 3 Science Park Drive
Singapore Science Park 1
The Franklin #02-12/25 Suite 20
Singapore 118223
4.2 Documentation
The completed application forms mentioned in Clause 4.1 shall be accompanied by two sets of the
following supporting documentation:
(a) Organisation structure; general description of the functions, management of the testing
organisation.
(b) Test personnel CVs including authenticated diplomas and certificates.
(c) The Control Manual and supporting documentation. (see Appendix 1)
(d) Track records of performance as a welder testing organisation.
4.3 The Audit Team
The audit team shall consist of two independent auditors appointed by SWS, one of whom shall be the
lead auditor. Auditors shall be proficient not only in quality system auditing but also welding
inspection. If proficient only in one area, then supplementary assistance should be sought.
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4.4 Documentation Review
The application and self audit forms, and the supporting documentation shall be reviewed by the two
auditors. The lead auditor will draw the applicants attention to any major non compliance. The
application will not be processed until these non-compliances have been resolved.
4.5 The Audit Visit
The audit based on an on-site visit normally shall be conducted by both auditors while the testing is
being conducted to check compliance with the requirements. The applicant shall make all relevant
facilities available to the auditors, and provide access to a technical manager responsible for the testing
operations when requested by the auditors. All non compliances shall be disclosed to the applicant on
conclusion of the audit, and a time scale for their correction agreed upon. Auditors may provide advice
in response to questions or on the basis of observations to provide help to improve the applicants
potential of being in compliance.
4.6 ASSESSMENT CHECKLIST
Auditors are given assessment guide and checklist to follow in performing an assessment. These
documents are intended to ensure that assessments are conducted as uniformly and completely as
possible among the auditors for different applicants and testing establishments.
The assessment generally involves:
(i) An entry briefing with the management of the applicant organization
(ii) Review of quality assurance system manual
(iii) Interviews with the staff
(iv) Review of test methods and procedures
(v) Observation of conducting of test
(vi) Examination of equipment and calibration records
(vii) An exit briefing of auditor findings
4.7 REPORTING OF ASSESSMENT
At the conclusion of an assessment in an initial audit/re-audit/surveillance visit, the lead auditor will
prepare a report of findings, identifying observations and non-compliances which, in the opinion of the
auditor(s), the applicant must correct in order to be certified. After the exit briefing with the top
management of the testing organization, the applicant representative is required to sign the report to
attest that he has reviewed the report with the lead auditor.
The lead auditor shall produce a report for consideration by SWS within three weeks of the audit. A
decision on approval of the WQTC or otherwise will be made by SWS, on the recommendation of the
auditors. The final report will be submitted to the applicants within 6 weeks of the audit.
4.8 GRANT OF CERTIFICATION AS A WELDER QUALIFICATION TESTING
CENTRE
If the testing establishment is approved, SWS shall issue a SWS WQTC certification of approval
which is normally valid for three (3) years and indicate the scope of approved testing, subject to
continuing satisfactory performance of the welder performance testing centre assessed by periodic
surveillances at intervals of three (3) years, periodic full audits at intervals of six (6) years, random
spot checks and full payment of the fees involved. No compensation shall be granted to the WQTC for
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its loss of time as an approved test centre as a result of its suspension for serious non-conformities or
non-payment of fees.
4.9 SURVEILLANCE & SPOT CHECKS
4.9.1 The WQTC shall be subjected to periodic surveillance audit visits at three-yearly intervals by
SWS to ensure that the welder performance test standard is being maintained. Each
surveillance audit may be conducted by one/two auditor(s). Annually, changes in equipment
or key personnel shall be monitored through a questionnaire by the auditor during a
surveillance visit.
The WQTC shall inform SWS immediately whenever there are changes in location,
ownership, management and supervisory staff, corporate representative, or major facilities of
the testing organization.
4.9.2 Random spot checks not requiring any pre-arrangement with a WQTC may from time to time
be conducted on the WQTC by an auditor assigned by the SWS secretariat during any of the
welding performance qualification tests. Such checks shall focus specifically on compliance
with the requirements of the conduct of welder performance qualification test, as detailed in
Clause 7.2. Depending on a case by case basis, the number of spot checks, subject to a
maximum of three (3) per year, shall be at the discretion of SWS. The WQTC shall allow such
unsolicited spot checks unconditionally. As in a usual audit or surveillance, each random spot
check shall be completed in the manner as detailed in Clause 4.7.
4.10 NON CONFORMITY & SUSPENSION
4.10.1 All instances of non-conformity with the CWQS requirements observed during full audit,
surveillance audit or random spot check are to be reported by the auditor to SWS, together
with intended corrective actions or recommendation for suspension of the WQTC by the
auditor.
4.10.2 In the case of serious non-conformities such as falsifications and alterations of reports and test
results, unethical actions of welding inspectors and NDT personnel, failure of welding
inspectors to verify the essential variables during the test, etc. and on the recommendation of
the auditor concerned, the grant of the test centre as a SWS WQTC shall be suspended
immediately. The duration of suspension of the WQTC from the CWQS system shall be at the
discretion of the SWS.
4.11 RE-ASSESSMENT
The WQTC shall be subjected to a full audit once every six years. Full audit shall also be conducted
on a WQTC on its re-instatement as an authorised welder qualification test centre in the CWQS
system following a suspension for serious non-conformities. Assessment shall also be conducted when
evaluation and submissions from the applicant or its clients indicate that significant technical changes
in the capability of the establishment have occurred.
4.12 APPEAL PROCEDURE
In a full audit, the lead auditor shall advice the applicant of its right of appeal to SWS in case of
adverse assessment decisions. In the case of surveillance audit or spot check, the single auditor shall
perform this function. The decision of SWS shall be final after the appeal.
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5. SCOPE OF APPROVAL
5.1 Scope of Approved Testing
Following successful assessment, the WQTC shall be certified for a specific scope of testing
defined by:
(a) Location of approved testing establishment and those of its approved test sites outside
the establishment
(b) The range of testing and inspection such as:
- Non-destructive testing
- Destructive testing
- Welding inspection/welder qualification test
(c) The list of SAC-SINGLAS or equivalent SAC SINGLAS authorised test personnel
(i.e. certified welding inspectors, non-destructive testing and destructive testing
personnel) and approved signatory. All tests shall be carried out by authorised test
personnel and all test reports signed by an approved signatory.
5.2 AMENDMENT OF SCOPE BETWEEN SURVEILLANCE AUDITS
A WQTC wishing to amend its scope of testing between surveillance audits shall proceed, as
follows:
(a) Apply to SWS in writing
(b) The changes will be recorded and reviewed by SWS, which will then give a
provisional approval to the WQTC
6. PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT
(Applicable for test conducted at test centres with permanent facilities and any other test sites)
6.1 General
6.1.1 The WQTC shall be furnished with or have access to all items of equipment required for
correct performance of the welder/welding test, examinations and measurements within the
scope of approval.
6.1.2 The test equipment shall be capable of providing the full range of parameters specified in the
welding procedure specifications (WPS) detailed in SWS: CWQS: Part II: Requirements of
welder qualification test.
6.1.3 In exceptional cases, when test equipment outside the WQTC is required, the WQTC shall
ensure that the equipment is in good condition and has been maintained as detailed in Clause
6.3 below.
6.1.4 Welding equipment to be used for qualification of welders shall be located at the accredited
WQTC or any external test site, which shall be equipped with the necessary facilities and
approved by the assigned welding inspector.
6.2 Environment of Testing Establishment
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6.2.1 The environment in which the tests are undertaken shall not invalidate the test results or
adversely affect the required accuracy of measurement. This applies in particular to sites other
than the permanent WQTC premises.
6.2.2 Adequate measures shall be taken to ensure good housekeeping in the WQTC.
6.3 Equipment
6.3.1 All equipments shall be properly maintained. Details of maintenance procedures shall be
available.
6.3.2 Any item of the equipment, which has been subjected to overloading or mishandling or which
gives suspect results or has been shown by calibration or otherwise to be defective, shall be
taken out of service until it has been repaired and then shown by test or calibration to be
performing its function satisfactorily.
6.3.3 Measuring and testing equipment used in the WQTC shall be calibrated, where appropriate,
before being put into service and thereafter according to an established programme.
6.3.4 Equipment shall be calibrated to acceptable standards such as ASME Section V. Where
applicable, the WQTC should provide satisfactory evidence of correlation of results, for
example, by participating in a suitable programme of inter-test centre comparisons or
proficiency testing.
6.3.5 Where relevant, testing equipment shall be subjected to in-service checks between regular re-
calibrations.
6.3.6 A label or tag indicating the date of the last calibration and the due date of the next calibration
should be attached to equipment requiring calibration.
6.4. Welding Inspection Tools and Equipment
Authorised welding inspectors performing a welder test either at the WQTC or any approved
external test site shall equip themselves with the necessary welding inspection tools and
equipment including at least the following items:
(i) Welding gauges for bevel angle, root gap, high-low / misalignment, weld
reinforcement, weld concavity and convexity, fillet weld leg length and undercut
depth
(ii) Current & voltage meter
(iii) Temperature sticks
(iv) Stop watch
(v) Steel rule
6.5 Records of Equipment
Records shall be maintained of each major item of test and measurement equipment. Each
record shall include:
a) The name of the item of equipment
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b) The manufacturers name and type identification and serial number
c) Date of last calibration and calibration records
d) Current location
e) Details of maintenance
f) Manufacturers operating manuals
7. Working Procedures
7.1 Test Methods and Procedures
7.1.1 The WQTC shall have adequate documented instructions on the use and operation of all
relevant equipment, on the handling and preparation of test items (where applicable) and on
standard testing techniques.
7.1.2 All instructions, standards and codes
6, 7 & 8
, testing equipment manuals, the SWS CWQS
reference
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document, SAC-SINGLAS or equivalent SAC SINGLAS document and reference
data relevant to the work of testing laboratory shall be maintained up-to-date and be readily
available to the Test Personnel.
7.2 Conduct of Welder Qualification Test
The WQTC shall conduct each welder qualification test (WQQT) in accordance to the following
requirements:
7.2.1 Each welder wishing to undertake the welder qualification test (WQT) shall be registered with
the SWS secretariat which shall issue an identification number for a particular test and assign
an approved WQTC establishment to the welder. Approval to undertake the test shall be
allowed only to welders who can produce documentary evidence of having received sufficient
training in welding from welder training institutions recognized by SWS.
7.2.2 Each WQTC shall inform the SWS secretariat in writing by fax or email at least three (3)
calendar days in advance the date and time of the day when a WQT is to be conducted at its
approved establishment. Failure to comply with this clause shall render the test if conducted
null and void.
7.2.3 Test welders shall be tested together in batches within an approved WQTC establishment in
the presence of a certified welding inspector who shall be an approved Test Personnel. Each
test welder shall be provided with a separate welding booth which shall be fully equipped with
all the facilities for the test as detailed in Clause 6.
7.2.4 Each welding inspector shall be adequately equipped with the necessary inspection tools and
equipment listed in Clause 6.4.
7.2.5 All test welders shall wear the full personnel protective equipment (PPE) for welders. Each
test welder shall display the given identification number prominently on his body throughout
the test and make available personal identification documents such as NRIC or passports for
the welding inspector to verify. Test welders without appropriate PPE, NRIC or passport and
SWS secretariat identification number shall not be accepted for the test.
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7.2.6 The number of test welders in a batch to be tested shall be limited to a maximum of ten (10) to
allow for effective observation of all the welders by the welding inspector during the test. The
number of batches shall not exceed two (2) in a normal working day.
7.2.7 Each test welder shall be provided with two (2) sets of pipe samples for the welder to stamp
the allocated identification number on the samples and prepare the weld joint, e.g. weld
alignment, tack welding, cleaning, etc.
7.2.8 Each test welder shall align the test sample according to the 6G welding position under test
and immobilise by tack welds the welding position of the test sample on the sample holder.
The welding position, once set, shall not be changed or tampered with during welding. At any
stage of the test, the pipe joint shall not be removed from its immobilised position for
grinding, etc. Failure to comply with this clause shall constitute a failure of the welding
performance of the test welder.
7.2.9 The immobilisation of each weld sample, welding position set at 45 to the horizontal on the
sample holder, joint details and other essential variables, test welder identification and
complete covering of both pipe ends shall be verified by the welding inspector before the start
of the test. (Hold Point)
7.2.10 The welding test shall start only after compliance with Clauses 7.2.7, 7.2.8 and 7.2.9 has been
established by the welding inspector and end within a specified time (e.g. 2 hours for SMAW
of pipe or as advised) for the whole batch of welders under test. The time for starting and
ending the test and all unauthorised actions by the welders shall be prominently displayed at
the test site. Failure to meet the specified time limit by any welder shall constitute a failure of
the welding performance of the test welder.
7.2.11 During the period of the test, no test welder undergoing the test shall be allowed to leave the
respective allocated welding booth and also no unauthorised person is allowed to be in the
vicinity of the test area for whatever reason.
7.2.12 Each test welder shall perform the welding according to an approved welding procedure
specifications (WPS) which shall be submitted to the welding inspector for verification.
7.2.13 The direction of progression of welding and other essential welding variables in the WPS shall
be verified by the welding inspector on each welder during the test. Absence of verification of
these essential variables during the test shall constitute a serious non-conformity with the
CWQS requirements and a basis for debarring the welding inspector as a Test Personnel.
Failure to maintain the welding position, direction of progression of welding and other
essential welding variables shall constitute a failure of the welding performance of the test
welder.
7.2.14 Any test welder attempting to weld a second test sample within the specified time limit shall
adhere to the conditions stipulated in the above-mentioned clauses.
7.2.15 At the end of welding at or before the specified time, each test welder shall select and submit
only one (1) welded test sample to the welding inspector and leave the test area. The welding
inspector shall, in the absence of all the test welders, visually evaluate all the welded test
samples and thereafter hand them over, together with a list of the welded test sample
identification numbers, to an authorised NDT personnel for radiography.
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7.2.16 The WQTC shall use testing or inspection methods and procedures
6, 7 & 8
required by the SWS
CWQS programme for all testing or inspection performed and issue all test or inspection
reports bearing the logo of accreditation body, e.g. SAC SINGLAS logo in Singapore,
alongside with the internationally recognised APLAC or ILAC mark, if required.
7.2.17 All weld testing involving non-destructive and destructive tests if required shall be conducted
or administered with supervision by an approved Test Personnel who shall possess the
appropriate valid NDT qualification and certification. The original identification number
stamped on each welded test sample shall be visible on the radiograph.
7.2.18 On completion of the radiographic test, each test weld sample and its radiograph shall be
handed over by the authorised NDT Test Personnel to a second certified welding inspector for
a second visual evaluation of the welded sample and an interpretation of the radiograph in
accordance to the required Codes or Standards. The second certified welding inspector shall
also be an approved Test Personnel, who shall be responsible for preparing the final welder
test report which shall bear the name and identification number of each test welder in the
batch, the results of the two visual assessments of each weld sample and its radiographic
interpretation, and finally for logging in the overall WQT results of each test welder in the
CWQS MOS system.
7.2.19 All WQT reports including visual inspection and radiographic interpretations shall be verified
and signed by authorised Test Personnel as specified in SWS:CWQS: Part IV: Appendix 4:
Requirements for Test Personnel.
7.2.20 Failure to comply with any of the above-mentioned clauses shall render the test conducted null
and void and the WQTC establishment liable for the penalties as mentioned in Clauses 4.10 &
4.11.
7.3 Quality System
7.3.1 The WQTC shall have a documented system to control the quality of work
7.3.2 As a minimum, the documented system shall contain the following:
(a) The organisation chart(s) of the WQTC
(b) Operational and functional activities pertaining to quality, so that each person
concerned will know the extent and limits of his responsibility.
(c) General quality assurance procedures
(d) Satisfactory arrangements for feedback and corrective action whenever testing
discrepancies are detected.
(e) Procedure for dealing with complaints
7.3.3 The documented system shall be periodically reviewed by its management to ensure the
continued effectiveness of the arrangements.
7.4 Records
7.4.1 The WQTC shall maintain a record system and shall have adequate documented instructions
on qualified welding procedures, use and operation of all equipment, handling and preparation
of work pieces, as well as relevant weld test methods. Such documents shall be maintained up-
to-date and be readily available to the staff.
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7.4.2 All records shall contain observations, calculations and derived data, calibration records and
the final test report. These shall be kept for a period of five years.
7.4.3 All records and test reports shall be safely stored and held secured and in confidence to the
client, unless otherwise required by SWS.
7.5 Subcontracting
All subcontracting of welder tests and weld testing shall be placed with another SWS
approved WQTC.
7.6 Cooperation with SWS
The WQTC shall afford SWS and its representatives such reasonable cooperation as is
necessary, to monitor compliance with these requirements and other criteria.
8. HANDLING OF TEST SAMPLES AND STORAGE
8.1 The WQTC shall maintain a system for identifying the samples to be tested.
8.2 There shall be clear rules for the receipt, retention and disposal of test samples.
8.3 Test samples shall be retained for a period of at least three months.
9. SAFETY
9.1 The testing area, all equipment and facilities therein and working practices shall conform to
industrial safety recommendations and requirements of the Ministry of Manpower, Singapore
or its equivalent body outside Singapore following the ILO guidelines.
9.2 All welders must receive instruction in safe working practice before starting work in the
workshop area.
9.3 All welders shall use appropriate PPE in the workshop area and the WQTC or testing
establishment.
9.4 For those tests conducted at the WQTC or approved sites, WQTC shall ensure that the above
safety measures are in place.
9.5 For those tests conducted at any other sites, the employer of the welder shall be responsible for
all safety measures.
10. PERSONNEL
10.1 The WQTC technical manager and Test Personnel shall have the necessary education,
training, technical knowledge and experience for their functions, refer to Appendix 4:
Requirements for Test personnel.
16
10.2 Only appropriately qualified and certified personnel who are listed in the SAC SINGLAS
1 & 2
Accredited Testing Laboratory or Equivalent SAC SINGLAS Accredited Testing Laboratory
record of approved test personnel of the WQTC and equipped with the necessary tools and
equipment shall be allowed to conduct any welder test or weld testing.
11. TESTING MATERIALS
11.1 All base metals used for qualification under the SWS CWQS shall be obtained and maintained
with rigid control. Certified mill test reports shall be obtained and kept on file representing all
test specimen base metals. Base metals and test samples shall be permanently marked with
identification that will allow traceability to the mill test report.
11.2 Base metal for qualification test samples and specimens from the test samples shall be
prepared in accordance with all requirements of the Welder Qualification Test detailed in
SWS: CWQS: Part II, and test requirements specified in the reference codes and standards
6 & 7
.
Upon completion of all testing, the test specimens shall be stored in such a way that the
specimens will be free of contamination.
11.3 Manufacturers certification in accordance with AWS A5.01
8
, Class F, shall apply to all
welding filler materials to be used in the welder performance test. Drying and storage ovens
shall be used for those materials affected by moisture. Electrodes and flux that have become
wet shall not be used for welding.
12. FEES
The fee structure for certification as a CWQS WQTC, fixed from time to time by SWS, is to cover the
costs for the following items:
(i) Application and review of self audit S$ 300.00
(ii) Initial assessment/re-assessment audit - 1
st
visit S$2,000.00
Each subsequent visit S$ 800.00
(iii) Annual certification S$ 300.00
(iv) 3-yearly periodic surveillance visit S$1,500.00
(v) Spot check S$ 500.00
The fees will be imposed progressively in stages and under normal circumstances (i.e. when approval
may be granted after one audit visit) they are:
Stage 1: S$300.00 for Item (i) on receipt of application forms and self-audit report
Stage 2: S$2,000.00 for Item (ii) after a satisfactory review of the self-audit report and
before the initial assessment audit visit
Stage 3: S$300.00 for Item (iii) after a satisfactory 1
st
audit visit but before the issue of
certificate of competency as an authorized CWQS WQTC
Stage 4: S$1,500.00 before each 3-yearly periodic surveillance visit
In this fee structure, a welder testing centre will initially have to pay S$2,600.00 on being certified
after one audit visit. However, subsequently after being certified, it will have to pay S$300.00 for the
annual renewal of the certificate of competency and S$500.00 for each spot check if conducted.
17
For overseas-based welder performance test centres which may not be SWS Corporate Members, they
will have to pay, in addition to the fees stated above, the cost of travel, board & lodging, internal
transport, etc.
The fee for a welder qualification test according to a welding procedure for a welder to become an
approved welder under the CWQS system shall be fixed at S$200.00 per welder, subject to changes
from time to time.
18
Appendix 1
THE CONTROL MANUAL
The Control Manual shall cover the following items:
1. A quality policy statement; certificate of quality assurance system in accordance to ISO 2002,
if available.
2. General description of the facilities, location, organisation and management of the testing
organisation; legal status.
3. Names, qualifications and experience of staff, recruitment policy, staff structure, access to
source of welding technology.
4. Job functions and job specifications of staff.
5. Sub-contractors; control procedures.
6. Safety policy; implementation; safety officer; first aid facilities; emergency procedures.
7. Administration; procedures, testing records; confidentiality; facilities, systems.
8 Internal audit procedure.
9. Complaints procedure.
10. Testing facilities; nature of construction; cleaning, maintenance, safety, illumination,
ventilation; access control. [Applicable only for test centre(s) that have testing facilities]
11. Welding booths; construction, size, access, maintenance, fume extraction, facilities, safety.
[Applicable only for test conducted at test centre(s) that have testing facilities]
12. Welding procedures for testing; preparation, validation, approval, control, change procedure.
13. Approval testing; location, work-piece preparation, identification, issue, control, welding
procedures, instruction to candidates, supervision, witnessing, documentation; welding
equipment, calibration, maintenance, certification.
14. Testing; equipment calibration, maintenance, witnessing, assessment of results, sub-contract
procedures, issue of certificates.
15. Testing programmes; preparation, validation, change control, interfacing with customer needs.
16. Visual aids; preparation, sourcing, validation, change control.
19
Appendix 2
Singapore Welding Society
Common Welder Qualification Scheme
APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL
AS A SWS WELDER TESTING CENTRE
1. SCOPE OF APPROVAL
[please tick one or more]
Non-Destructive testing
Destructive Testing
Welding Inspection/Welder Qualification Test
2. TESTING ORGNIZATION
Name:
Address:
Tel No:
Fax No:
E-mail add:
Site Lab
Address(es)
3. AUTHORISED REPRESENTATIVE
Name:
Designation:
Signature:
20
4. LABORATORY EQUIPMENT
Please provide the list of equipment used to perform the tests and the calibration status of these
equipment
(Use extra sheets if necessary)
Calibration Status
Equipment
(Name, Made, Capacity, etc)
Calibration
Organization
Frequency of
Calibration
Date of Last
Calibration
21
5. TEST PERSONNEL
Please provide the list of test personnel with their particulars, authentic certificate(s) and scope of tests
to be covered for each personnel.
(Use extra sheets if necessary)
Name1 :
Designation :
Qualification :
Professional
Memberships :
Experience :
Scope of test :
Name2 :
Designation :
Qualification :
Professional
Memberships :
Experience :
Scope of test :
22
6. ORGANIZATION AND STAFF STRUCTURE
Please provide the organization chart showing the line of authority within the laboratory, and if
relevant, the laboratorys position in the overall structure of the parent organizations.
7. LABORATORY ENVIRONMENT AND ACCOMMODATION
(If applicable)
Please provide a sketch of laboratory layout and a brief description of laboratory accommodation,
including number of rooms, approximate size, special features, etc
8. SUPPORTING INFORMATION REGARDING THE LABORATORY
A. Date of Establishment: ______________
B. Other Accreditation
Name of Scheme Terms of Accreditation
Certificate No. Etc
Period of accreditation
D. Number of Supporting Staff in the Laboratory
Professional :
Technical :
Administrative :
23
9. DECLARATION
I hereby submit this application for approval as a SWS welder testing centre and agree to comply with
the terms and conditions for the participation in the CWQS. I declare that the information given in this
application is correct to the best of my knowledge and belief
Authorised Signature :
Name :
Designation :
Company Stamp :
Date :
24
Appendix 3
Singapore Welding Society
Common Welder Qualification Scheme
SELF AUDIT REQUIREMENTS AND RECORDS
FOR SWS WELDER TESTING CENTRES
The criteria in this document are the specific requirement for self-audit. The results of the audit should
indicate the ability of a testing organization to meet the requirements of the SWS Common Welder
Qualification Scheme. The self-audit is not intended to replace the formal assessment by the Scheme
audit team.
Item Acceptable/
Not acceptable
Comments/Requirements
1. Quality policy statement
2. General description of the facilities, location,
organization and management of the testing
organization
3. Names, qualifications and experience of
staff; recruitment policy, staff structure, access
to source of welding technology
4. Job functions and job specifications of staff;
student/staff ratio
5. Sub-contractors; control procedures
6. Safety policy;
Implementation; safety officer; first aid
facilities; emergency procedures
7. Administration;
Procedures, testing records, confidentiality;
facilities, systems
8. Procedures for management of site
operations
9.Internal audit procedure
10. Complaints procedure
25
11. Testing facilities:
Nature of construction; cleaning, maintenance,
safety, illumination, ventilation, temperature
control, access control
12. Welding booths:
Construction, size, access, maintenance, fume
extraction, facilities, safety
13. Welding procedures for testing;
preparation, validation, approval, control,
change procedure
14. Approval testing;
Location, work piece preparation,
identification, issue, control, welding
procedures, instruction to candidates,
Supervision, witnessing, Documentation,
welding equipment, calibration, maintenance,
Certification
15. Testing: equipment calibration,
maintenance, witnessing, assessment of results,
sub-contract procedures, issue of certificate
16. Testing programmes:
preparation, validation, change control,
interfacing with customer needs
17. Visual aids: preparation, sourcing
validation, change control
18. Reference books & relevant standards:
Reference library of key material
26
Appendix 4
SWS COMMON WELDER QUALIFICATION SCHEME
REQUIREMENTS FOR WELDER TEST PERSONNEL
OF SWS WELDER TESTING CENTRES
1. SCOPE
This document has been drawn up with the objective of ensuring a common standard for Test
Personnel, which is acceptable to the requirements of the Industry.
2. ROLE OF TEST PERSONNEL
The respective Test Personnel are responsible for the following testing/inspection activities of
the Industry.
2.1 Welding Inspector
a) Conducting the welder qualification test (WQT)
b) Visual inspection during and after welding
c) Interpretation of NDT/mechanical test results
2.2 NDT Personnel
a) Conducting non-destructive testing (NDT)
b) Interpretation of NDT results
2.3 Mechanical Testing Personnel
a) Performing mechanical testing
b) Interpretation of mechanical test results
3. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
3.1 Test Personnel shall be employed by SWS-approved WQTC or SWS-approved participating
companies.
3.2 Test Personnel with employment other than that stated in Para. 3.1, but with qualifications and
experience that satisfy Para. 4, and registered with SWS, shall also be allowed to perform the
functions stated in Para. 2.
3.3 All approved test centres WQTC shall make available a list of Test Personnel to SWS.
27
4. QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS OF TEST PERSONNEL
4.1 Welding Inspector
4.1.1 Acceptable qualification bases are:
a) American Welding Society Certified Welding Inspector (AWS-CWI) in accordance with the
provisions of AWS QCI, (Standard and Guide for Qualification and Certification of Welding
Inspectors), or
b) CSWIP Welding Inspector (CSWIP-WI, 3.1 or 3.2) in accordance with the CSWIP
requirements described in document CSWIP-WI-6-92.
c) American Society of Mechanical Engineers Authorized Inspector or Authorized Nuclear
Inspector (ASME-AI or ANI) and regularly employed by an insurance company authorized to
write boiler and pressure vessel insurance.
d) PCN Welding Inspector, International Institute of Welding (IIW) International Welding
Inspector (IWI) certification
4.1.2 Inspectors without these qualifications stated in accordance with Para. 4.1.1 but having the
following academic qualifications and required years of welding inspection experience are
also acceptable. The required years of welding inspection experience should be directly related
to inspection of welds, which is done in accordance to national or international standards. It
should be supported by documentary proof.
a) A relevant degree or diploma in Engineering or Science with three years of welding
inspection experience, or
b) A trade certificate or a minimum of G.C.E. O level (Cambridge General Certificate
of Education) with eight years of welding inspection experience.
4.2 NDT Personnel
4.2.1 The personnel shall be certified in accordance to the requirements of SNT-TC-1A (The
recommended Practice for Training and Certification of Personnel in NDT), PCN, ASNT
Central Certification Programme (ACCP) or equivalent.
4.2.2 Personnel performing radiographic interpretation shall be required to pass the weld
radiographic interpretation course conducted by SWS-approved organizations such as
Classification Societies, ASNT (Level 2), CSWIP, Welding Institute and UK (PCN Level 2).
4.2.3 Personnel performing NDT of test coupons shall be qualified to at least ASNT Level 2 or
equivalent.
28
4.3 Mechanical Testing Personnel
4.3.1 Personnel performing mechanical tests shall either attain a relevant diploma in Engineering or
with three years of mechanical testing experience.
4.3.2 Personnel must be conversant with the test requirements of the relevant codes / standards.
4.3.3 Personnel must also be trained in the operation of the various mechanical testing equipments.
5. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF TEST PERSONNEL
5.1 Welding Inspector (WI)
5.1.1 WI shall perform the WQT in a conscientious and impartial manner.
5.1.2 WI shall perform visual inspection of the work during and after welding.
5.1.3 WI shall prepare clear and concise reports, review of test certificates (WPS, PQR, WQT, NDT
and DT) to ensure that the records have been prepared in accordance with the relevant sections
of the CWQS.
5.1.4 WI shall input the welding performance data into the CWQS computerized administration
system. Alternatively, he can delegate this function to an approved Test Personnel.
5.2 NDT Personnel
5.2.1 NDT Personnel shall perform the required non-destructive testing (NDT) in accordance with
the relevant codes / standards and the relevant sections of the CWQS.
5.2.2 NDT Personnel shall be responsible for any work done ensuring that proper safety and
working procedures are strictly followed, results obtained are accurate, neat and dutifully
recorded and report prepared on time.
5.2.3 NDT Personnel shall also be responsible for carrying out the in-house equipment maintenance,
verification and calibration.
5.3 Mechanical Testing Personnel (MP)
5.3.1 MP shall perform the required mechanical testing in accordance with the relevant codes /
standards and the relevant sections of the CWQS.
5.3.2 MP shall record and report actual test details and results accurately.
5.3.3 MP shall ensure safety first are being practice in the laboratory at all times, for example PPE
are being worn during the testing.
5.3.4 MP shall be responsible for the maintenance and the calibration of equipment.
29
6. EYE TEST REQUIREMENTS
6.1 Test Personnel performing welding inspection and NDT shall have passed an eye examination
with or without corrective lenses to prove:-
a) Near vision acuity on Snellen English or Equivalent, at 305mm (12 inches).
b) Far vision acuity of 20/40 or better.
c) A colour perception test for red/green and blue/yellow differentiation.
6.2 Eye examination is required every one year or less if necessary to demonstrate adequacy in
accordance with Para. 6.1.
6.3 Eye examinations shall be administered by an optometrist, medical doctor, registered nurse or
certified physician assistant.
7. REGISTRATION WITH SWS
All welding inspectors and Test Personnel who interpret radiographs shall be registered with
SWS through approved Test Centres or participating Companies.
8. DE-REGISTRATION WITH SWS
Test Personnel who is no longer employed by SWS-approved Test centre or participating
Company shall be de-registered as an approved Test personnel of the CWQS.
9. CO-OPERATION WITH SWS
All Test Personnel shall afford SWS and its representatives reasonable co-operation in order to
monitor compliance with the requirements of this document.