Certified Welding Inspectors ( CWI ) program comply with the requirement of Section 6.1 of the AWS standard for qualification and certification of welding Inspectors QC 1 - 96.

Introduction to CWI Certification Program :

The objective of the Welding Inspector Qualification and Certification Programme is to determine the knowledge of welding inspectors who may be required to inspect weldments or welded products, in accordance with codes or other specified requirements.
The examination of applicants for a broadly based welding inspector qualification / certification programme includes requirements of various codes, standards, specifications, base materials, filler materials, heat treatments, mechanical properties, welding processes and procedures, inspection methods, acceptance standards, tests, welding qualification requirements, fabrication tolerances, and other aspects of fabrication and assembly with which the welding inspector may be involved.
Therefore, we have formulated examinations, which include important aspects of these elements of fabrication operations, which will evaluate the applicant’s knowledge in these areas. The examination also includes the use of micrometers, calipers, and weld gauges on test specimens. The use of the inspection tools is required to complete part of the examination.
The examination is designed to determine a level of knowledge in a standardized manner and does not necessarily reflect the level of competence required for each and every standard, code or specification used in the welding fabrication field. Employers must recognize their responsibility for additional training and education as needed to satisfy their requirements, and the requirements of standards and specifications so that welding inspectors may properly perform their assigned tasks.

Why become certified ?
Many welding personnel employed can measure themselves against standards for their occupation, but unfortunately they cannot provide documentation. Certification provides this documentation.

Does AWS certification signify anything else ?
Yes, It signifies that the certified inspector has the capability of working with various codes, standards and specification. Since proof of active practice or reexamination is required every three years, certification also signifies that the CWI or CAWI is current with the welding industry.

Why was it decided to initiate the programme with the Welding Inspector ?
Because little, if anything, has been done to determine the knowledge of the Welding Inspector. Since that phase of the programme is now operating successfully, a concerted effort is being made toward establishing certification standards for other categories of welding personnel.

Has a standard for certification of the welding inspector been established ?
Yes, The standard for Qualification and Certification of Welding Inspectors, AWS QC1, is the document.

Who established the standards for Welding Inspector ?
The AWS Qualification and Certification Committee, authorized by the Board of Directors of the American Welding Society. This committee consists of members representing industry, consultants, educators, testing laboratories, and representatives from other technical societies.