AWS B5.

1:2013-AMD1
An American National Standard

Specification for
the Qualification of
Welding Inspectors
 AWS B5.1:2013-AMD1
An American National Standard

Approved by the
American National Standards Institute
November 14, 2012
Amendment: October 7, 2014

Specification for the

Qualification of Welding Inspectors

2nd Edition

Supersedes AWS B5.1:2003

Prepared by the
American Welding Society (AWS) B5 Subcommittee on Welding Inspectors

Under the Direction of the

AWS Personnel and Facility Qualification Committee

Approved by the
AWS Board of Directors

Abstract
This standard defines the qualification requirements to qualify welding inspectors. The qualification requirements for
visual welding inspectors include experience and satisfactory completion of an examination, which includes demon-
strated capabilities, and proof of visual acuity. The examination tests the inspector’s knowledge of welding processes,
welding procedures, nondestructive examinations, destructive tests, terms, definitions, symbols, reports, welding metal-
lurgy, related mathematics, safety, quality assurance, and responsibilities.
AWS B5.1:2013-AMD1

ISBN: 978-0-87171-833-4
© 2013 by American Welding Society
All rights reserved
Printed in the United States of America
Amendment: 2nd Printing, October 2014

Photocopy Rights. No portion of this standard may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any
form, including mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the copyright
owner.

Authorization to photocopy items for internal, personal, or educational classroom use only or the internal, personal, or
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fee is paid to the Copyright Clearance Center, 222 Rosewood Drive, Danvers, MA 01923, tel: (978) 750-8400; Internet:
<www.copyright.com>.

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Statement on the Use of American Welding Society Standards

All standards (codes, specifications, recommended practices, methods, classifications, and guides) of the American
Welding Society (AWS) are voluntary consensus standards that have been developed in accordance with the rules of the
American National Standards Institute (ANSI). When AWS American National Standards are either incorporated in, or
made part of, documents that are included in federal or state laws and regulations, or the regulations of other govern-
mental bodies, their provisions carry the full legal authority of the statute. In such cases, any changes in those AWS
standards must be approved by the governmental body having statutory jurisdiction before they can become a part of
those laws and regulations. In all cases, these standards carry the full legal authority of the contract or other document
that invokes the AWS standards. Where this contractual relationship exists, changes in or deviations from requirements
of an AWS standard must be by agreement between the contracting parties.

AWS American National Standards are developed through a consensus standards development process that brings
together volunteers representing varied viewpoints and interests to achieve consensus. While AWS administers the
process and establishes rules to promote fairness in the development of consensus, it does not independently test, evalu-
ate, or verify the accuracy of any information or the soundness of any judgments contained in its standards.

AWS disclaims liability for any injury to persons or to property, or other damages of any nature whatsoever, whether
special, indirect, consequential, or compensatory, directly or indirectly resulting from the publication, use of, or reliance
on this standard. AWS also makes no guarantee or warranty as to the accuracy or completeness of any information
published herein.

In issuing and making this standard available, AWS is neither undertaking to render professional or other services for or
on behalf of any person or entity, nor is AWS undertaking to perform any duty owed by any person or entity to someone
else. Anyone using these documents should rely on his or her own independent judgment or, as appropriate, seek the
advice of a competent professional in determining the exercise of reasonable care in any given circumstances. It is
assumed that the use of this standard and its provisions is entrusted to appropriately qualified and competent personnel.

This standard may be superseded by new editions. This standard may also be corrected through publication of amendments
or errata or supplemented by publication of addenda. Information on the latest editions of AWS standards including
amendments, errata, and addenda is posted on the AWS web page (www.aws.org). Users should ensure that they have the
latest edition, amendments, errata, and addenda.

Publication of this standard does not authorize infringement of any patent or trade name. Users of this standard accept
any and all liabilities for infringement of any patent or trade name items. AWS disclaims liability for the infringement of
any patent or product trade name resulting from the use of this standard.

AWS does not monitor, police, or enforce compliance with this standard, nor does it have the power to do so.

Official interpretations of any of the technical requirements of this standard may only be obtained by sending a request,
in writing, to the appropriate technical committee. Such requests should be addressed to the American Welding Society,
Attention: Managing Director, Technical Services Division, 8669 NW 36 St, # 130, Miami, FL 33166 (see Annex B).
With regard to technical inquiries made concerning AWS standards, oral opinions on AWS standards may be rendered.
These opinions are offered solely as a convenience to users of this standard, and they do not constitute professional
advice. Such opinions represent only the personal opinions of the particular individuals giving them. These individuals
do not speak on behalf of AWS, nor do these oral opinions constitute official or unofficial opinions or interpretations of
AWS. In addition, oral opinions are informal and should not be used as a substitute for an official interpretation.

This standard is subject to revision at any time by the AWS Personnel and Facility Qualification Committee. It must be
reviewed every five years, and if not revised, it must be either reaffirmed or withdrawn. Comments (recommendations,
additions, or deletions) and any pertinent data that may be of use in improving this standard are required and should
be addressed to AWS Headquarters. Such comments will receive careful consideration by the AWS Personnel and Facility
Qualification Committee and the author of the comments will be informed of the Committee’s response to the comments.
Guests are invited to attend all meetings of the AWS Personnel and Facility Qualification Committee to express their
comments verbally. Procedures for appeal of an adverse decision concerning all such comments are provided in the Rules
of Operation of the Technical Activities Committee. A copy of these Rules can be obtained from the American Welding
Society, 8669 NW 36 St, # 130, Miami, FL 33166.

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Personnel (Amendment)
Personnel & Facilities Qualification Committee
W. F. Behnke, Chair Fairbanks Morse
P. A. Grimm, Vice Chair Modern Welding Company
R. E. Dines, 2nd Vice Chair United Technical, LLC
S. P. Hedrick, Secretary American Welding Society
T. P. Colley Tampa Tank, Inc.
K. W. Coryell Consultant
I. A. Cross Valiant Machine and Tool, Incorporated
F. J. Fascenda Mitsubishi Power Systems
K. M. Gilgenbach Airgas
V. Kuruvilla Genesis Quality Systems
B. W. Phillips Aker Solutions
J. R. Reid Reid Consulting
C. T. Smith Fluor Enterprises, Incorporated
D. L. Twitty Dona Ana Community College

AWS B5G Subcommittee on Welding Inspectors

F. J. Fascenda, Chair Mitsubishi Power Systems
S. P. Hedrick, Secretary American Welding Society
W. F. Behnke Fairbanks Morse
K. W. Coryell Consultant
R. E. Dines United Technical, LLC
J. E. Greer Moraine Valley College
M. D. Ison Tampa Tank, Incorporated
C. K. Nicholson AMEC
J. R. Reid Reid Consulting
D. L. Twitty Dona Ana Community College
R. K. Wiswesser Welder Training and Testing Institute

Advisor to the AWS B5A Subcommittee on Welding Inspectors

S. P. Fugate Fought & Company, Incorporated
A. S. Gallant Applus RTD
V. Kuruvilla Genesis Quality Systems
J. Olvera Sanchez Bombardier Transportation
Z. Turner City & County of San Francisco

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Personnel (Original)
Personnel & Facilities Qualification Committee
W. F. Behnke, Chair United Technical, LLC
P. A. Michalski, 1st Vice Chair Dominion East Ohio
P. A. Grimm, 2nd Vice Chair Modern Welding Company
S. P. Hedrick, Secretary American Welding Society
K. W. Coryell Consultant
I. A. Cross Valiant Machine and Tool
R. Dines United Technical, LLC
K. M. Gilgenbach Airgas North Central
M. D. Ison Tampa Tank Florida Structural Steel
V. Kuruvilla Genesis Quality Systems
B. W. Phillips Aker Solutions
J. R. Reid Reid Consulting
M. R. Stone Flint Field Services Ltd.
D. L. Twitty Dona Ana Community College

AWS B5A Subcommittee on Welding Inspectors

P. A. Grimm, Chair Modern Welding Company
S. P. Hedrick, Secretary American Welding Society
W. F. Behnke United Technical, LLC
K. W. Coryell Consultant
R. E. Dines United Technical, LLC
F. J. Fascenda Mitsubishi Power Systems Americas, Incorporated
J. E. Greer Moraine Valley College
M. D. Ison Tampa Tank Florida Structural Steel
P. A. Michalski Dominion East Ohio
C. K. Nicholson MACTEC Engineering & Consulting, Incorporated
J. R. Reid Reid Consulting
D. L. Twitty Dona Ana Community College
R. K. Wiswesser Welder Training & Testing Institute

Advisors to the AWS B5A Subcommittee on Welding Inspectors

S. P. Fugate Fought & Company, Incorporated
A. S. Gallant Applus RTD
V. Kuruvilla Genesis Quality Systems
J. Olvera Sanchez Bombardier Transportation
Z. Turner City & County of San Francisco

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Foreword
This foreword is not part of AWS B5.1:2013, Specification for the Qualification
of Welding Inspectors, but is included for informational purposes only.

This is the second edition of this specification. The first edition superseded, in part, AWS QC1, Standard for Certifica-
tion of AWS Welding Inspectors. AWS QC1 sets the requirements for the AWS Certified Welding Inspector program.
AWS B5.1 establishes a basic definition of a welding inspector, and is referenced by QC1. Companies or individuals
wishing to establish in-house or internal qualification programs for inspection personnel may use AWS B5.1 as the basis
for their program. Companies or individuals wishing to obtain AWS certification must follow the requirements in AWS
QC1. Individuals who comply with AWS B5.1 but not with AWS QC1 should not be labeled as AWS Certified Welding
Inspectors; only individuals who comply with AWS QC1, as determined by AWS, may obtain that title.
This second edition includes revisions to nearly every area of the specification: duties, capabilities, education, experi-
ence, and testing. An alternative to taking the Senior Welding Inspector exam has been added, see 7.3.
The Qualification and Certification Committee of the American Welding Society was formed in 1973. AWS QC1, Stan-
dard for Certification of AWS Welding Inspectors, was first published in 1975. The first examinations for the certification
of AWS Certified Welding Inspector were conducted in the spring and fall of 1976. Over 30,000 individuals have met the
requirements of AWS QC1, worldwide, since the start of the program. The last revision to AWS QC1 was published in
2007 and was approved by the American National Standards Institute. In 1996, the AWS Qualification & Certification
Committee was divided into two freestanding committees. The Personnel & Facility Qualification Committee is now
responsible for creating ANSI American national standards for welding personnel and welding facility qualification
requirements. The AWS Certification Committee is now responsible for creating certification programs from these and
other recognized standards.
The purpose of welding inspection is to determine if a weldment meets the acceptance criteria of a specific code, standard,
or other document. The welding inspector must be thoroughly familiar with welding processes, welding procedures,
welder qualifications, materials, the limitation of weld testing, be able to read drawings, prepare and keep records, pre-
pare and make reports, and make responsible judgments. For welding inspectors to be effective, the activities performed
should be consistent with the requirements and technical and ethical principles.
Comments and suggestions for the improvement of this standard are welcomed. They should be sent to the Secretary,
AWS Personnel and Facility Qualification Committee, American Welding Society, 8669 NW 36 St, # 130, Miami, FL
33166.

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Amendments
The following Amendments have been identified and are incorporated in this reprint.

AWS Standard: B5.1:2013

Amendment Number: 1
Subject: Annex A—Referenced Documents

Annex A (Informative)
Reference Documents
This annex is not part of AWS B5.1:2013, Specification for the Qualification
of Welding Inspectors, but is included for informational purposes only.

The examination questions may be taken from the following reference information. The reference documents are not
limited to the following.

Number Title Applicability

ANSI Z49.1 Safety in Welding, Cutting, and Allied Products AWI, WI, SWI
AWS A1.1 Metric Practice Guide for the Welding Industry AWI, WI, SWI
AWS A2.4 Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination AWI, WI, SWI
AWS A3.0 Standard Welding Terms and Definitions, Including Terms for Adhesive AWI, WI, SWI
Bonding, Brazing, Soldering, Thermal Cutting, and Thermal Spraying
AWS B1.10 Guide for the Nondestructive Inspection of Welds AWI, WI, SWI
AWS B1.11 Guide for the Visual Inspection of Welds AWI, WI, SWI
AWS B2.1 Specification for Welding Procedure and Performance Qualification AWI, WI, SWI
AWS B4.0 Standard Methods for Mechanical Testing of Welds AWI, WI, SWI
AWS B5.1 Specification for the Qualification of Welding Inspectors AWI, WI, SWI
AWS QC1 Standard for AWS Certification of Welding Inspectors AWI, WI, SWI
AWS Certification Manual for Welding Inspection AWI, WI, SWI
AWS Welding Inspection Handbook AWI, WI, SWI
AWS Welding Handbook, Vol. 1: Welding Science & Technology AWI, WI, SWI
AWS Welding Handbook, Vol. 2: Welding Processes AWI, WI, SWI
AWS Welding Handbook, Vol. 3: Materials and Applications Part I AWI, WI, SWI
AWS Welding Handbook, Vol. 4: Materials and Applications Part II AWI, WI, SWI
ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems—Requirements SWI
ASNT SNT-TC-1A Recommended Practice: Personnel Qualification and Certification in WI, SWI
Nondestructive Testing

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Table of Contents
Page No.
Personnel (Amendment)................................................................................................................................................v
Personnel (Original)...................................................................................................................................................vii
Foreword......................................................................................................................................................................ix
List of Tables..............................................................................................................................................................xiv
1. Scope ......................................................................................................................................................................1
1.1 Requirements...................................................................................................................................................1
1.2 Levels ..............................................................................................................................................................1
1.3 Responsibility..................................................................................................................................................1
1.4 Employer .........................................................................................................................................................1
1.5 Terminology Guideline ...................................................................................................................................1
1.6 Units ................................................................................................................................................................1
1.7 Safety...............................................................................................................................................................1
1.8 Referenced Documents ...................................................................................................................................2
2. Terms and Definitions ..........................................................................................................................................2
3. Levels of Qualification..........................................................................................................................................2
3.1 Associate Welding Inspector (AWI)................................................................................................................2
3.2 Welding Inspector (WI)...................................................................................................................................2
3.3 Senior Welding Inspector (SWI) .....................................................................................................................2
4. Functions ...............................................................................................................................................................2
4.1 Duties ..............................................................................................................................................................2
4.2 Capabilities......................................................................................................................................................2
5. Education and Experience Requirements ..........................................................................................................5
5.1 Associate Welding Inspector ...........................................................................................................................5
5.2 Welding Inspector............................................................................................................................................5
5.3 Senior Welding Inspector ................................................................................................................................6
5.4 Documentation ................................................................................................................................................6
5.5 Qualifying Experience.....................................................................................................................................6
6. Examination Requirements .................................................................................................................................7
6.1 Visual Requirements .......................................................................................................................................7
6.2 Written Test Requirements..............................................................................................................................7
7. Examination Structure.........................................................................................................................................7
7.1 WI/AWI Examination......................................................................................................................................7
7.2 SWI Examination ............................................................................................................................................8
7.3 SWI Alternate Qualification............................................................................................................................8
8. Maintenance of Qualification ..............................................................................................................................8
Annex A (Informative)—Reference Documents..........................................................................................................9
Annex B (Informative)—Guidelines for the Preparation of Technical Inquiries .......................................................11

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List of Tables
Table Page No.
1 Welding Inspection Capabilities Based on Qualification Level ...................................................................3

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Specification for the

Qualification of Welding Inspectors

1. Scope
1.1 Requirements. This standard establishes the requirements for qualification and defines the body of knowledge
applicable to welding inspection personnel.

1.2 Levels. There are three levels of qualification: Associate Welding Inspector (AWI), Welding Inspector (WI), and
Senior Welding Inspector (SWI).

1.3 Responsibility. Qualification of AWI/WI/SWI personnel to the requirements of this standard does not eliminate the
need of an employer to determine the ability of the individual to perform the duties involved in a particular welding
inspection assignment.

1.4 Employer. This standard is intended to supplement the requirements of an employer, code, or other documents, and
shall not be construed as a preemption of the employer’s responsibility for the work or for the performance of the work.

1.5 Terminology Definitions. As used in this standard, the word shall denotes a requirement, the word should denotes a
guideline, and the word may means it is permissible. As used in this specification the word welders includes welding
operators, brazers, and brazing operators.

1.6 Units. This standard does not require units of measure. Therefore, no equivalents or conversions are contained
except when they are cited in examples.

1.7 Safety

1.7.1 Safety and health issues and concerns are beyond the scope of this standard; some safety and health information
is provided, but such issues are not fully addressed herein.

1.7.2 Safety and health information is available from the following sources:

American Welding Society:

(1) ANSI Z49.1, Safety in Welding, Cutting, and Allied Processes

(2) AWS Safety and Health Fact Sheets

(3) Other safety and health information on the AWS website

Material or Equipment Manufacturers:

(1) Material Safety Data Sheets supplied by materials manufacturers

(2) Operating Manuals supplied by equipment manufacturers

Applicable Regulatory Agencies

1.7.3 Work performed in accordance with this standard may involve the use of materials that have been deemed haz-
ardous, and may involve operations or equipment that may cause injury or death. This standard does not purport to
address all safety and health risks that may be encountered. The user of this standard should establish an appropriate
safety program to address such risks as well as to meet applicable regulatory requirements. ANSI Z49.1 should be con-
sidered when developing the safety program.

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AWS B5.1:2013-AMD1

1.8 Referenced Documents

(1) ANSI Z49.1, Safety in Welding, Cutting, and Allied Processes1
(2) AWS A3.0, Standard Welding Terms and Definitions1

2. Terms and Definitions

Terms used in this standard are defined below. All other terms, are defined by AWS A3.0, Standard Welding Terms and
Definitions.
active supervision. Direct on-site or readily available supervision by the WI/SWI in the form of necessary instructions
to assure that the AWI can perform specific evaluations as specified by the employer.
candidate. The person attempting to qualify to this standard.
certification. The act of determining, verifying, and attesting in writing to the qualification of personnel in accordance
with specified requirements.
qualification. Demonstrated training, skill, knowledge, and experience required for personnel to perform the duties of a
specific job or function typically demonstrated by passing a performance test.

3. Levels of Qualification
This standard recognizes three levels of qualifications for welding inspection personnel. These levels are:
3.1 Associate Welding Inspector (AWI). A person meeting the qualification requirements of 5.1 and Clause 6.
3.2 Welding Inspector (WI). A person meeting the qualification requirements of 5.2 and Clause 6.
3.3 Senior Welding Inspector (SWI). A person meeting the qualification requirements of 5.3 and Clause 6.

4. Functions
4.1 Duties
4.1.1 AWI. All inspections performed by the AWI shall be made under the active supervision a SWI or WI. The SWI
or WI shall maintain the responsibility for determining if welded assemblies conform to workmanship and acceptance
criteria.
4.1.2 WI. The WI shall be able to supervise and train AWIs. The WI shall be able to perform inspections to applicable
procedures and processes. The WI shall be able to conduct audits of suppliers and organizations providing materials or
services to the project. The WI shall ensure the work performed and associated records are maintained and conform to
the requirements of the applicable standards or other contract documents.
4.1.3 SWI. The SWI shall be able to perform inspections, supervise one or more WIs or AWIs, write welding proce-
dure specifications, test and qualify welders, prepare inspection reports, and review and interpret joining procedures.
4.2 Capabilities. As specified by qualification level, the welding inspector shall, at a minimum, be able to perform the
tasks listed in Table 1. This table does not restrict inspectors from performing tasks above their qualification level if their
employer determines the inspector has the necessary skills to perform those higher level tasks (see 1.3).

1 ANSI Z49.1 and AWS standards are published by the American Welding Society, 8669 NW 36 St, # 130, Miami, FL 33166.

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Table 1
Welding Inspection Capabilities Based on Qualification Level
Knowledge and Skills AWI WI SWI
(1) prepare reports X X X
(2) communicate effectively orally and written X X X
(3) understand the fundamentals of SMAW, SAW, OFW, RW, GTAW, FCAW, GMAW, PAW, SW, ESW, and X X X
Thermal Spraying, Soldering, Mechanical Cutting, Thermal Cutting/Gouging, Brazing/Braze Welding
(4) understand the fundamentals of VT, MT, UT, PT, RT, LT, quality procedures and quality X X X
audits/surveillance
(5) understand the fundamentals of welding metallurgy X X
(6) understand welding symbols and drawings X X X
(7) interpret drawings X X
Standards AWI WI SWI
(1) verify base material compliance X X X
(2) verify filler metal compliance X X X
(3) verify filler metal storage/handling compliance X X X
(4) verify inspection records compliance X X X
(5) verify proper documentation compliance X X X
(6) verify base material and filler metal compatibility X X
(7) certify documented results compliance X X
(8) verify procedure qualification records compliance X X
(9) verify welding procedure compliance X X
(10) verify NDE procedures compliance X X
Procedure Qualification AWI WI SWI
(1) verify welding equipment appropriateness X X X
(2) verify edge preparation compliance X X X
(3) verify joint geometry compliance X X X
(4) witness procedure qualification X X
(5) verify welding procedure qualification compliance X X
(6) review welding procedures for compliance with code and contract requirements X X
(7) write welding procedures X
Performance Qualification AWI WI SWI
(1) witness welder performance qualification X X
(2) verify welder qualification compliance X X
(3) verify welder qualification records compliance X X
(4) request welder performance requalification X X
Production AWI WI SWI
(1) verify welder qualification appropriateness X X
(2) verify production welding compliance X X
(3) verify personnel qualifications X X

(Continued)

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Table 1 (Continued)
Welding Inspection Capabilities Based on Qualification Level
Inspection AWI WI SWI
(1) perform visual examinations X X X
(2) verify examination procedure compliance X X
(3) review examination results compliance X X
(4) develop visual inspection procedures (before, during, and after welding) X X
(5) provide NDE inspection planning and scheduling (before, during, and after a project) X X
(6) review welding inspection reports X X
(7) verify implementation of nondestructive and destructive evaluation methods X X
(8) prepare visual inspection requirements X
(9) prepare NDE requirements X
(10) report investigation results of quality inspection disputes X
(11) prepare destructive testing requirements X
Safety AWI WI SWI
(1) be knowledgeable of applicable safety requirements X X X
Quality Assurance AWI WI SWI
(1) perform audits and surveillance X X
(2) implement weld inspection quality assurance plans X X
(3) prepare weld inspection quality assurance plans X
(3) prepare base material control requirements X
(4) prepare weld consumable control requirements X
(5) prepare audit and surveillance plans X
(6) prepare documentation control requirements X
Project Management AWI WI SWI
(1) review contract requirements X X
(2) review vendor proposal compliance X X
(3) prepare weld inspection bid specifications X
(4) prepare purchase specifications X
(5) determine vendor capacity and capability X
(6) select vendor X
Training AWI WI SWI
(1) develop and provide a training program for the AWI X X
(2) develop visual inspection training X X
(3) verify implementation of visual inspection training X X
(4) develop and provide a training program for the WI X
(5) provide technical leadership for welding inspectors X
(6) verify implementation of quality assurance training X
(7) provide guidance and direction to inspectors for maintaining and upgrading their individual qualifications X
Evaluation AWI WI SWI
(1) evaluate AWIs performance X X
(2) evaluate WIs performance X
(3) perform inspection results trend analysis X

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5. Education and Experience Requirements

5.1 Associate Welding Inspector. An Associate Welding Inspector (AWI):
5.1.1 Shall be a high school graduate, or hold a state or military approved high school equivalency diploma (e.g.,
GED).
5.1.2 Shall have a minimum of two (2) years experience in an occupational function with a direct relationship to
weldments fabricated to national or international standards and directly involved in one or more of the areas listed under
5.5.
5.1.3 Alternatives to 5.1.1 and 5.1.2, with supporting documentation (e.g., copies of transcripts or letters of reference
specifying earned credit hours of training) may be substituted as follows:
5.1.3.1 Eighth grade level of schooling with a minimum of four years work experience in welding functions as
defined under 5.5.
5.1.3.2 Less than an eighth grade level of schooling with a minimum of six years experience in welding functions,
as defined under 5.5.
5.1.3.3 Eighth grade level of schooling with a minimum of one year of vocational education and training in a weld-
ing curriculum and a minimum of three years experience in welding functions, as defined under 5.5.
5.1.3.4 Two years post-high school education in welding curriculum or engineering technology, engineering, or
physical sciences, and a minimum of six months experience in welding functions, as defined under 5.5.
5.2 Welding Inspector. A Welding Inspector (WI):
5.2.1 Shall be a high school graduate, or hold a state or military approved high school equivalency diploma (e.g.,
GED).
5.2.2 Shall have a minimum of five (5) years experience in an occupational function that has a direct relationship to
welded assemblies fabricated to national or international standards and be directly involved in one or more of the areas
listed under 5.5.
5.2.3 Alternatives to 5.2.1 and 5.2.2, with supporting documentation (e.g., copies of transcripts or letters of reference
specifying earned credit hours of training) may be substituted as follows:
5.2.3.1 Eighth grade level schooling with a minimum of 9 years work experience in welding functions as defined
under 5.5.
5.2.3.2 Less than an eighth grade level schooling with a minimum of 12 years work experience in welding func-
tions as defined under 5.5.
5.2.3.3 A maximum of four (4) years of post-high school education may be substituted for an equal number of
years of the required five years experience, provided studies are relevant to any of the functions as defined under 5.5.
Credit is given as follows:
(1) Bachelor or Higher Degree in Welding. Four years maximum if the degree is in welding engineering or welding
technology.
(2) Associate or Higher Degree. Three years maximum if the degree is in welding or non-welding related engineer-
ing technology, engineering, or physical sciences.
(3) Engineering/Technical School Courses. Two years maximum, and only for successfully completed courses* in a
curriculum that can be (or could be) applied to (1) above.
(4) Trade/Vocational Courses. One year maximum, and only for successfully completed courses* in a curriculum
related to welding that can be (or could be) applied to (1) above.
*NOTE: “Courses in a curriculum” means courses within a program toward a degree, diploma, or certificate, to be
applied to item (1) above. “Successfully completed courses” means a completed quarter or semester with credit in that
course. Documentation of the number of actual hours completed is necessary prior to notification of actual credit
allowed.

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5.3 Senior Welding Inspector. A Senior Welding Inspector (SWI):

5.3.1 Shall be a high school graduate, or hold a state or military approved high school equivalency diploma (e.g.,
GED).
5.3.2 Shall have a minimum of fifteen (15) years experience in an occupational function that has a direct relationship
to welded assemblies fabricated to national or international standards and shall be directly involved in three (3) or more
of the areas listed in 5.5.
5.3.3 Shall have been qualified as a WI.
5.3.4 Alternatives to 5.3.1 and 5.3.2 with supporting documentation (e.g., copies of transcripts or letters of reference
specifying earned credited hours of training) may be substituted as follows:
5.3.4.1 A maximum of four (4) years of post-high school education may be substituted for an equal number of
years of the required fifteen years experience, provided studies are relevant to any of the functions described under 5.5.
Credit is given as follows:
(1) Bachelor or Higher Degree in Welding. Four years maximum if the degree is in welding engineering or welding
technology.
(2) Associate or Higher Degree. Three years maximum if the degree is in engineering technology, engineering, or a
physical science.
(3) Engineering/Technical School Courses. Two years maximum, and only for successfully completed courses* in a
curriculum that can be (or could be) applied to (1) above.
(4) Trade/Vocational Courses. One year maximum, and only for successfully completed courses* in a curriculum
related to welding that can be (or could be) applied to (1) above.
*NOTE: “Courses in a curriculum” means courses within a program toward a degree, diploma, or certificate, to be
applied to item (1) above. “Successfully completed courses” means a completed quarter or semester with credit in that
course. Documentation of the number of actual hours completed is necessary prior to notification of actual credit
allowed.
5.4 Documentation. Candidates shall submit verifiable documentation of education and employment.
5.5 Qualifying Experience. Candidates shall submit verifiable documentation of experience in an occupational function
with a direct relationship to weldments fabricated to national or international standards and directly involved in at least
three of the following:
5.5.1 Experience in the development of procedures, inspection requirements, acceptance criteria, and specifications
for weldments.
5.5.2 Experience in planning, control, and application of base metals and filler metals in the preparation and comple-
tion of production weldments.
5.5.3 Experience as a welder, welding operator, or tack welder in fabrication, manufacturing, or construction.
5.5.4 Experience in the detection and measurement of weld discontinuities by application of visual or other nonde-
structive evaluation processes to a written procedure.
5.5.5 Experience in planning, control, and application of repair welding.
5.5.6 Experience in the preparation of written procedures for welding, nondestructive evaluation of weldments, or
destructive tests of weldments.
5.5.7 Experience in the qualification of welders or welding procedures to various codes, standards and specifications.
5.5.8 Experience applying welding related codes, standards, or specifications.
5.5.9 Experience in operational techniques and activities used to fulfill quality control requirements for weldments.
5.5.10 Experience in teaching the occupational skill of welding or subjects related to welding; its application, control,
materials, and processes.

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 AWS B5.1:2013-AMD1

6. Examination Requirements
The AWI, WI, or SWI shall meet the following examination requirements:
6.1 Visual Requirements. AWI, WI, and SWI shall have the ability to read Jaeger Number 2 letters or smaller at a min-
imum distance of 12 inches (or equivalent test) in at least one eye with or without correction. AWI, WI, or SWI shall take
a color perception test and shall take a contrast differentiation shades of gray test.
NOTE: Near vision acuity is considered essential to the proper performance of welding examination. Failure to meet the
above level of acuity shall be a failure to meet this standard. Color perception and shades of gray contrast differentiation
are desirable in some specific applications, but are not considered essential for all examinations. It shall be the
employer’s responsibility to establish and enforce visual requirements for those AWIs, WIs, and SWIs in his/her employ.
6.2 Written Test Requirements. Shall pass each part of the applicable AWI, WI, or SWI examination.
The examination includes the following parts:
6.2.1 A test on the requirements of a code, standard, or specification.
6.2.2 A test on fundamental principles including, but not limited to: welding processes, nondestructive examination,
safety, quality assurance, inspector’s duties, weld discontinuities, welding symbols, joint design, mechanical properties
of metals, and basic on-the-job mathematics.
6.2.3 A test on practical application of welding inspection knowledge including, but not limited to, welding procedure
qualification, welder qualification, mechanical testing, drawing and specification compliance, welding examination, and
nondestructive testing processes.

7. Examination Structure
Recommended examination subjects and recommended subject weights are given below.
7.1 WI/AWI Examination
Code Applications Percent of Total Questions2
Qualification 25
Fabrication 25
Inspection 25
Reports and Records 5
Material and Design 5
Fundamentals Percent of Total Questions3
Definitions and Terminology 12
Welding Processes 12
Symbols—Welding and NDE 10
Weld Examination 10
Welding Performance 9
Test Methods—NDE 8
Heat Control & Metallurgy (carbon and low-alloy steel) 6
Welding Related Calculations 6
Duties and Responsibilities 4
Destructive Tests 3
Cutting 2

2 Percentages indicate the minimum required for each category in an examination.

3 Percentages indicate the minimum required for each category in an examination.

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AWS B5.1:2013-AMD1

Practical Applications Percent of Total Questions4

Welding Inspection and Flaws 34
Procedure and Welder Qualifications 28
Mechanical Test and Properties 8
NDE 8
Utilization of Specification and Drawings 8
7.2 SWI Examination
Technical Fundamentals Percent of Total Question5
Heat Control & Metallurgy 10
(High Alloy Steel and Nonferrous Materials)
NDE fundamentals, techniques, and applicability (VT, PT, MT, RT, UT) 10
Welding and Allied Processes 5
Destructive Testing fundamentals, techniques, and applicability including 5
groove welds, fillet welds, stud welds, and weldability testing
NDE applicability (LT) 1
Administrative Fundamentals
Welding Procedure Qualification and Code Compliance 10
Welding Personnel Qualification and Certification 10
Welding Inspection and NDE Personnel 10
Qualification and Certification
Quality Assurance/Quality Management, including: 10
Quality Programs
Document Control
Procurement and Supplier Control
Calibration
Quality Control
Process Control
Statistical Quality Control
Trend Analysis
Nonconformance Control
Auditing and Surveillance
Corrective Action
Records
Project Management 5
Personnel Management and Training Programs 5
Performance Evaluation
7.3 SWI Alternative Qualification. Candidates for SWI shall be considered as meeting the examination requirements
of 7.2 if they can demonstrate the successful completion of separate education courses or examinations that cover a min-
imum of 90% of the subjects in 7.2. There is no time limit for the completion of these courses or examinations.

8. Maintenance of Qualification
The WI/SWI shall demonstrate his/her continuing ability to perform the functions in Clause 4. Maintenance of qualifica-
tion shall be no more than three years.

4 Percentages indicate the minimum required for each category in an examination.

5 Percentages indicate the minimum required for each category in an examination.

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 AWS B5.1:2013-AMD1

Annex A (Informative)
Reference Documents
This annex is not part of AWS B5.1:2013, Specification for the Qualification
of Welding Inspectors, but is included for informational purposes only.

The examination questions may be taken from the following reference information. The reference documents are not
limited to the following.

Number Title Applicability

ANSI Z49.1 Safety in Welding, Cutting, and Allied Products AWI, WI, SWI

AWS A1.1 Metric Practice Guide for the Welding Industry AWI, WI, SWI

AWS A2.4 Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination AWI, WI, SWI

AWS A3.0 Standard Welding Terms and Definitions, Including Terms for Adhesive AWI, WI, SWI
Bonding, Brazing, Soldering, Thermal Cutting, and Thermal Spraying

AWS B1.10 Guide for the Nondestructive Inspection of Welds AWI, WI, SWI

AWS B1.11 Guide for the Visual Inspection of Welds AWI, WI, SWI

AWS B2.1 Specification for Welding Procedure and Performance Qualification AWI, WI, SWI
AWS B4.0 Standard Methods for Mechanical Testing of Welds AWI, WI, SWI

AWS B5.1 Specification for the Qualification of Welding Inspectors AWI, WI, SWI

AWS QC1 Standard for AWS Certification of Welding Inspectors AWI, WI, SWI

AWS Certification Manual for Welding Inspection AWI, WI, SWI

AWS Welding Inspection Handbook AWI, WI, SWI

AWS Welding Handbook, Vol. 1: Welding Science & Technology AWI, WI, SWI

AWS Welding Handbook, Vol. 2: Welding Processes AWI, WI, SWI

AWS Welding Handbook, Vol. 3: Materials and Applications Part I AWI, WI, SWI

AWS Welding Handbook, Vol. 4: Materials and Applications Part II AWI, WI, SWI

ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems—Requirements SWI

ASNT SNT-TC-1A Recommended Practice: Personnel Qualification and Certification in WI, SWI
Nondestructive Testing

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 AWS B5.1:2013-AMD1

Annex B (Informative)
Guidelines for the Preparation of Technical Inquiries
This annex is not part of AWS B5.1:2013, Specification for the Qualification
of Welding Inspectors, but is included for informational purposes only.

B1. Introduction
The American Welding Society (AWS) Board of Directors has adopted a policy whereby all official interpretations of
AWS standards are handled in a formal manner. Under this policy, all interpretations are made by the committee that is
responsible for the standard. Official communication concerning an interpretation is directed through the AWS staff
member who works with that committee. The policy requires that all requests for an interpretation be submitted in writ-
ing. Such requests will be handled as expeditiously as possible, but due to the complexity of the work and the procedures
that must be followed, some interpretations may require considerable time.

B2. Procedure
All inquiries shall be directed to:

Managing Director
Technical Services Division
American Welding Society
8669 NW 36 St, # 130
Miami, FL 33166

All inquiries shall contain the name, address, and affiliation of the inquirer, and they shall provide enough information
for the committee to understand the point of concern in the inquiry. When the point is not clearly defined, the inquiry
will be returned for clarification. For efficient handling, all inquiries should be typewritten and in the format specified
below.

B2.1 Scope. Each inquiry shall address one single provision of the standard unless the point of the inquiry involves two
or more interrelated provisions. The provision(s) shall be identified in the scope of the inquiry along with the edition of
the standard that contains the provision(s) the inquirer is addressing.

B2.2 Purpose of the Inquiry. The purpose of the inquiry shall be stated in this portion of the inquiry. The purpose
can be to obtain an interpretation of a standard’s requirement or to request the revision of a particular provision in the
standard.

B2.3 Content of the Inquiry. The inquiry should be concise, yet complete, to enable the committee to understand the
point of the inquiry. Sketches should be used whenever appropriate, and all paragraphs, figures, and tables (or annex)
that bear on the inquiry shall be cited. If the point of the inquiry is to obtain a revision of the standard, the inquiry shall
provide technical justification for that revision.

B2.4 Proposed Reply. The inquirer should, as a proposed reply, state an interpretation of the provision that is the point
of the inquiry or provide the wording for a proposed revision, if this is what the inquirer seeks.

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AWS B5.1:2013-AMD1

B3. Interpretation of Provisions of the Standard

Interpretations of provisions of the standard are made by the relevant AWS technical committee. The secretary of the
committee refers all inquiries to the chair of the particular subcommittee that has jurisdiction over the portion of the stan-
dard addressed by the inquiry. The subcommittee reviews the inquiry and the proposed reply to determine what the
response to the inquiry should be. Following the subcommittee’s development of the response, the inquiry and the
response are presented to the entire committee for review and approval. Upon approval by the committee, the interpreta-
tion is an official interpretation of the Society, and the secretary transmits the response to the inquirer and to the Welding
Journal for publication.

B4. Publication of Interpretations

All official interpretations will appear in the Welding Journal and will be posted on the AWS web site.

B5. Telephone Inquiries

Telephone inquiries to AWS Headquarters concerning AWS standards should be limited to questions of a general nature
or to matters directly related to the use of the standard. The AWS Board Policy Manual requires that all AWS staff mem-
bers respond to a telephone request for an official interpretation of any AWS standard with the information that such an
interpretation can be obtained only through a written request. Headquarters staff cannot provide consulting services.
However, the staff can refer a caller to any of those consultants whose names are on file at AWS Headquarters.

B6. AWS Technical Committees

The activities of AWS technical committees regarding interpretations are limited strictly to the interpretation of provi-
sions of standards prepared by the committees or to consideration of revisions to existing provisions on the basis of new
data or technology. Neither AWS staff nor the committees are in a position to offer interpretive or consulting services on
(1) specific engineering problems, (2) requirements of standards applied to fabrications outside the scope of the docu-
ment, or (3) points not specifically covered by the standard. In such cases, the inquirer should seek assistance from a
competent engineer experienced in the particular field of interest.

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