Written Practice: in Accordance With ISO 9712: 2005 3 Edition BS EN 473: 2008 SNT-TC-1A: 2006

WRITTEN PRACTICE
IN ACCORDANCE WITH
ISO 9712 : 2005 3RD EDITION
BS EN 473 : 2008
SNT-TC-1A : 2006
BEN BUYS NISH KANAYE

ASNT LEVEL III MT/PT/RT/UT SAQCC LEVEL III MT/UT/PENDING PT
SAQCC LEVEL III MT/PT SAQCC/SNT-TC-1A LEVEL II PT/MT
NON-DESTRUCTIVE ACADEMY OF SOUTH AFRICA NON-DESTRUCTIVE ACADEMY OF SOUTH AFRICA
CAPE TOWN DURBAN
23 JOHN X MERRIMAN STREET, OAKDALE, BELVILLE, 7530 3 PASTOLL ROAD, SARNIA, 3610
TEL : 021 948 3088 TEL : 031 7083433
FAX : 021 948 3088 FAX : 086 500 7979
CELL : 072 433 7691 CELL : 083 321 0618
E-MAIL: nasa@nondestructive.co.za EMAIL : academy@nondestructive.co.za
NON DESTRUCTIVE ACADEMY OF SOUTH AFRICA DOCUMENT TITLE : WRITTEN PRACTICE
COMPILED BY : N.KANAYE : SAQCC III ; SNT-TC-1A II DOCUMENT NUMBER : NASACC-075 REV 3
AUTHORIZED BY: B.BUYS : SAQCC III ; ASNT III 178523 DOCUMENT DATE : 01 JANUARY 2011
REVIEWED BY : B.BUYS : SAQCC III ; ASNT III 178523 NUMBER OF PAGES: 21 INCLUDING COVER
INDEX PAGE
1 Scope 3
2 References 3
3 Terminology and Definitions 3
4 Symbols and Abbreviated Terms 6
5 Responsibilities 7
6 Levels of Qualification 9
7 Eligibility for Examination 10
8 Qualification Examination – Content and Grading 12
9 Qualification Examination – Conduct 15
10 Certification 16
11 Files 18
12 Categories 18
13 Code of Ethics 19
14 Specimen master reports 19
15 Grading: Level I and II practical examinations 20
Page 2 of 21
1 SCOPE
The objective of the Non-Destructive Academy of South Africa (NASA) is to establish procedures for the
qualification and certification of personnel involved in Non-Destructive Testing (NDT).
The Certification is applicable to proficiency and competence in one or more of the following methods:
 Magnetic Particle Inspection

 Liquid Penetrant Inspection
 Ultrasonic Testing
 Radiographic Testing
 Ultrasonic Wall thickness Limited
The Certification can be acknowledged by NDT authorities, NDT companies, Inspection agencies, NDT Industry
rd
users etc., to be in conformance with the requirements of the International Standard: ISO 9712 of 2005 3 Edition;
BS EN 473 of 2008; and SNT-TC-1A of 2006.
This Written practice is formulated to accommodate all the requirements of the above mentioned Standards,
codes or recommended practices, with consideration taken to establish the most stringent of the combination.
The qualification certificate issued by NASA indicates that the holders were independently examined and found
competent to carry out the specific type of NDT discipline and category indicated on the certificate.
It does not represent an authorization to operate or certification in accordance with a company’s written practice
and standard operating procedures, since this ultimately remains the responsibility of the employer.
Wherever the gender-specific word “His” or “He” appears in this NASA written instruction, the feminine form
“Her” or “She” is equally applicable.
2 REFERENCES
ISO/IEC 17024 General requirements for bodies operating Certification of persons
ISO 9712: 2005 Non –destructive testing – Qualification and Certification of Personnel.
BS EN 473: 2008 Non –destructive testing – Qualification and Certification of NDT Personnel – General
Principles.
SNT-TC-1A: 2006 Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-1A
3 TERMINOLOGY AND DEFINITIONS
3.1
Authorized qualifying body
Body independent of the employer, authorized by the NASACC to prepare and administer qualification
examinations.
3.2
Candidate
Individual seeking qualification and certification and who gains experience under the supervision of suitably
qualified personnel.
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3.3
Certificate
Document issued by NASA under the provisions of this standard indicating that the named person has
demonstrated the competence defined on the certificate.
3.4
Certification body
Body that administers procedures for certification according to the requirements of this written practice in
compliance with ISO 9712 : 2005.
3.5
Certification
Procedure, used by the certification body or company to confirm that the qualification requirements for a method,
level and category have been fulfilled, leading to the issuing of a certificate.
The issuing of a certificate does not authorize the holder to operate; this authority can only be given in writing
by the Employer of the candidate.
3.6
Employer
Organization for which the individual works on a regular basis
3.7
Examination centre
Centre approved by NASA where qualification examinations will be carried out.
3.8
Examination invigilator
Person authorized by NASA to supervise examinations.
3.9
Basic Examination
Written examination, at level III, which demonstrates the candidate’s knowledge of:
The materials science and processes technology
This qualification and certification system
The basic principles of NDT methods as required for level II.
3.10
General Examination
A written level I and level II examination concerned with the principles of an NDT method
3.11
Main method Examination
Written examination at level III, which demonstrates the candidates general and specific knowledge, and the
ability to write procedures for NDT method as applied in the industrial or product sector(s) for which certification
is sort.
3.12
Practical Examination
Assessment of practical skills, in which the candidate demonstrates familiarity with, and the ability to perform the
test.
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3.13
Qualification Examination
Examination administered by the authorized qualifying body, which assesses the general, specific and practical and
the skill of the candidate.
3.14
Specific Examination
Written examination concerned with testing techniques applied in a particular category(s), including knowledge of
the product(s) tested, and of codes, standards, specification and acceptance criteria.
3.15
Examiner
A person certified to level III in the method and product or category for which he or she is to conduct, supervise
and grade examinations and who is authorized to do so by NASA.
3.16
Industrial Experience
Experience, gained under qualified supervision, in the application of the NDT category(s) concerned, needed to
acquire the skill and knowledge to fulfil the provisions of qualification and certification by the employer.
3.17
Multiple-choice Examination question
Wording of a question giving rise to four potential answers replies, only one of which is correct, the remaining
three being incorrect or incomplete.
3.18
NDT instruction
A written description of the precise steps to be followed in testing to an established standard, code, specification
or NDT procedure.
3.19
NDT method
Discipline applying a physical principle in non-destructive testing (e.g. ultrasonic testing)
3.20
NDT procedure
Written description of all essential parameters and precautions to be observed when applying an NDT technique to
a specific test, following an established standard, code or specification. An NDT procedure can involve the
application of more than one NDT method or technique.
3.21
NDT technique
A specific way of utilizing an NDT method (e.g. post emulsified fluorescent liquid penetrant testing)
3.22
NDT training
A process of instruction in theory and practice in the NDT method in which certification is sought, which takes the
form of training courses to a syllabus approved by NASA, but which does not include the use of the specimens
used in qualification exams.
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3.23
Operating authorization
Written statement issued by the employer, based upon the scope of certification, authorizing the individual to
carry out defined tasks in NDT.
3.24
Qualification
Demonstration of physical attributes, knowledge, skill, training and experience required to properly perform NDT
tasks.
3.25
Significant interruption
Absence or change of activity, which prevents the certified individual from practicing the duties corresponding to
the level in the method and the category(s) within the certified scope, for:
A continuous period of One year or Two or more periods for a total time exceeding two years.
NOTE: Legal holidays, periods of sickness or courses of less than thirty days are not taken into account when
calculating the interruption.
3.26
Specification
Document stating requirements
3.27
Specimen
A sample used in practical examinations. Specimens should be representative of products typically tested in the
applicable category(s) and can include more than one area or volume to be tested.
3.28
Specimen master report
Model answer, indicating the optimum result for a practical examination given a defined set of conditions
(equipment type, settings, technique, specimen, etc.), against which the candidates test report will be graded.
3.29
Qualified Supervision
Supervision of candidates gaining experience by NDT personnel certified to the NASA standard or by non-certified
personnel who, in the opinion of NASA, possess the knowledge, skill, training and experience required to properly
perform such supervision.
3.30
Supervision
Act of directing the application of NDT performed by other NDT personnel, which includes the control of actions
involved in the preparation of the test, performance of the test and reporting of the results.
4 SYMBOLS AND ABBREVIATED TERMS
RT Radiographic testing
UT Ultrasonic testing
MT Magnetic particle testing
PT Liquid penetrant testing
NASA Non-Destructive Academy of South Africa
NDT Non-Destructive testing
WT Ultrasonic wall thickness
Page 6 of 21
5 RESPONSIBILITIES
5.1 General
The certification system, which shall be controlled and administered by NASA (with the assistance of the
authorized qualifying body), includes all procedures necessary to demonstrate the qualification of an individual to
carry out tasks in a specific NDT method and product or category, which leads to certification of competence.
5.2 The Non-Destructive Academy of South Africa (NASA)
 Shall initiate, promote maintain and administer the certification scheme according
to ISO 9712 : 2005 , SNT-TC-1A and BS EN 473.
 Shall issue all certificates. The issuing of a certificate does not authorize the holder to operate, this authority
can only be given by the employer. The ultimate responsibility for authorizing an individual to perform NDT
remains with the employer.
 Shall be responsible for ensuring the security of all examination materials, specimens, master reports,
question banks, examination papers etc.
 Shall ensure that examination specimens are not in use for training purposes.
 Shall be responsible for the definition of sectors.
 Shall approve properly staffed and equipped examination centers which it shall monitor.
 Shall conform to the requirements of ISO/IEC 17024.
 Shall be supported by a technical committee composed of representatives of interested parties, for example
NDT societies, committees, users, suppliers and government departments as appropriate. NASA shall be
responsible for setting and maintaining the technical standards of examination. Its members shall be
qualified for the tasks by an appropriate combination of NDT certification and/or experience.
 Shall authorize the current collection of examination questions related to the NDT disciplines concerned.
 Shall authorize the specimens used for practical assessment ensuring that each specimen is uniquely
identified and has master reports compiled by at least two independent tests and that is validated by an
examiner.
 Shall ensure that practical specimens are sector specific.
 Shall be responsible for maintaining an updated list of all certified individuals classified according to level,
NDT method and sector.
 Shall be responsible for maintaining a separate file for each certified individual containing application forms,
examination documents, description of practical examination specimens, records and results including
evidence of visual acuity and continuous activity. Files shall be kept under suitable conditions of safety and
confidentiality for as long as certification remains valid.
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5.3 EXAMINATION CENTER
The Examination Center shall
 Work under the control of the NASA.
 Apply a documented quality management system approved by the NASA.
 Have the resources needed to administer examinations, including the calibration and control of equipment.
 Prepare and conduct examinations under the responsibility of an examiner authorised by NASA.
 Have adequately qualified staff, premises and equipment to ensure satisfactory qualification examinations
for the levels, methods and categories concerned.
 Use only those documents and examination questionnaires established or approved by NASA.
 Use only specimens prepared or approved by NASA for the practical examinations conducted at that center.
When more than one examination center exists, each shall have specimens of comparable test difficulty
containing similar discontinuities maintain appropriate records to the requirements of NASA.
 An examination centre may be situated at an employers premise. However, in this case the NASA shall
require additional controls to preserve impartiality and examinations shall be conducted in the presence of,
and under the control of, an authorised representative of NASA.
5.5 EMPLOYER
5.5.1 The employer shall confirm the validity of the personal information provided by the candidate to the
NASA. The documentation shall include the declaration of the education, training and experience needed to
establish the eligibility of the candidate. If the candidate is unemployed or self-employed, the declaration of
education, training and experience shall be attested to by one or more independent parties.
5.5.2 Neither the employer nor his staff shall be directly involved in the qualification examination.
5.5.3 In respect of certified personnel under their control, the employer shall:
 Be fully responsible for all that concerns the authorisation to operate.

 Be responsible for the results of NDT operations.
 Ensure that the annual visual acuity requirements are met.
 Verify continuity in the application of the NDT method without significant interruption.
5.5.4 A self-employed individual shall assume all responsibilities described for the employer.
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6 LEVELS OF QUALIFICATION
6.1 OPERATORS
An individual certified in accordance with this NASA Standard shall be classified in one or more of the following
three levels.
6.2. LEVEL I
6.2.1. An individual certified to level I, shall have demonstrated competence to carry out NDT according to written
NDT instructions, working under the supervision of a Level II or Level III operator(s).
Within the scope of the competence defined on the NASA certificate level I operators shall have
demonstrated their competence to, and may be authorized by the employer to perform the following in
accordance with written NDT instructions:
 Set up and calibrate NDT equipment

 Perform practical tests under workshop and field conditions
 Record and classify the results in terms of written criteria
 Safe handling of radio-isotopes and x-ray equipment, in compliance with statutory regulations
 Report the results
6.2.2. Level I operators shall not be responsible for the choice of test method or technique to be used, nor for the
assessment of the test results.
6.3. LEVEL II
6.3.1. An individual certified to level II, shall have demonstrated competence to carry out NDT according to
established procedures, codes, standards and specifications.
Within the scope of the competence defined on the NASA certificate level II operators shall have
demonstrated their competence to, and may be authorized by the employer to perform the following in
accordance with written NDT procedures, codes, standards and specifications:
 Select the NDT technique for the test method to be used

 Define the limitations of application of the testing method
 Translate NDT codes, standards, specifications and procedures into practical testing instructions adapted to
the actual working conditions
 Set up and verify equipment settings
 Perform and supervise tests
 Interpret and evaluate results according to applicable codes, standards or specifications
 Prepare written NDT instructions
 Carry out and supervise all tasks at or below level II
 Provide guidance for personnel at or below level II
 Organize and report the results of non-destructive tests.
Page 9 of 21
6.4. LEVEL III
6.4.1. An individual certified to level III, shall have demonstrated competence to perform and direct non-
destructive testing operations for which he is certified.
Within the scope of the competence defined on the NASA certificate level III operators shall have
demonstrated their competence to, and may be authorized by the employer to:
 Assume full responsibility for a test facility or examination center and staff
 Establish and validate NDT instructions and procedures
 Interpret codes, standards, specifications and procedures
 Designate the particular test methods, procedures and NDT instructions to be used
 Carry out and supervise all NDT tasks at all levels
 Guide personnel at all levels
6.4.2. Level III personnel shall have demonstrated:
 The competence to evaluate and interpret results in terms of the existing codes, standards and
specifications
 Sufficient practical knowledge of applicable materials, fabrication, and product technology to select NDT
methods, establish NDT techniques, and assist in establishing acceptance criteria where none are otherwise
available
 A general familiarity with other NDT methods.
6.4.3. Level III certified personnel may be authorized to carry out, manage and supervise NASA qualification
examinations on behalf of NASA.
7 ELIGIBILITY FOR EXAMINATION
7.1 General
The candidate shall fulfil the minimum requirements of vision and training prior to the qualification
examination and shall fulfil the minimum requirements for industrial experience prior to certification.
The candidate shall be fluent in the English language.
7.2 Vision requirements – All levels

The candidate shall provide documented evidence of satisfactory vision in accordance with the following
requirements:
a) near vision acuity shall permit reading, a minimum of Jaeger No.1 , Jaeger No.2 or Times Roman N4.5 or
equivalent letters
(Letter height of 1.5876mm) at not less than 300mm with one eye or both eyes, either corrected or
uncorrected.
b) colour vision shall be sufficient that the candidate can distinguish contrast between the colours used in the
NDT method concerned as specified by the employer.
Vision requirements shall be provided utilizing the NASA eye test Document number NASACC-078 Rev 1.
7.2.1 Subsequent to certification, the tests of visual acuity shall be carried out annually and be verified by the
employer or the responsible agency.
Page 10 of 21
7.3 TRAINING
7.3.1 The candidate for level I and level II shall provide documentary evidence, in a form acceptable to NASA,
that training in the method and level for which certification is being sought has been satisfactorily
completed, in accordance with NASA’s requirements.
7.3.2 Taking into account the scientific and technical potential of candidates for level III certification, preparation
for qualification may be done in different ways: by attending training courses, conferences or seminars,
studying books, periodicals and other specialised printed or electronic materials. Regardless of the manner
of preparation, the level III applicant shall submit documentary evidence of appropriate training in a form
acceptable to NASA.
7.3.3 The minimum duration of training undertaken by the candidate for certification shall be in accordance with
Table 1. for the applicable method.
Table 1- Minimum training requirements

LEVEL II hours LEVEL III hours
NDT METHOD LEVEL I hours
(Inclusive of level I hours) (Inclusive of level II hours)
MT 16 40 60
PT 16 40 60
UT 40 120 160
RT 40 120 160
Training hours are based upon candidates possessing basic mathematical skills and prior knowledge of materials
and processes. If this is not the case, additional training hours may be required by NASA.
NOTE:
 training includes both practical and theory courses
 direct access to level II examinations requires the total hours shown for level I and II
7.4 INDUSTRIAL EXPERIENCE
7.4.1 Industrial experience may be acquired either prior to or following success in the qualification examination.
Documentary evidence of experience shall be confirmed by the employer and submitted to the NASA. In the
event that the experience is sought following successful examination, the results shall remain valid for up to
five years.
The duration of experience for each NDT method shall be in accordance with Table 2.
Table 2 – Industrial Experience

EXPERIENCE IN MONTHS
NDT METHOD
LEVEL I LEVEL II (inclusive of level I) LEVEL III (inclusive of level II)
RT , UT 3 12 30
MT , PT 1 4 16
Industrial experience in months is based on a 40 hour week or the legal week of work. When an individual is
working in excess of 40 hours per week, he may be credited on the total hours, but he shall be required to produce
evidence of this experience.
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8 QUALIFICATION EXAMINATION – CONTENT AND GRADING
8.1 GENERAL
General and Specific Levels I and II, all disciplines.
The qualification examination shall cover a given NDT method as applied in one or more category or one or
more product. NASA shall define and publish the maximum amount of time allowed for the candidate to
complete each examination, as a guide the average time allowed should be no longer than 3 minutes per
multiple-choice question. The average time allowable for questions requiring essay or narrative answers
shall be determined by NASA.
8.2 Examination content – Level I and Level II general examination
8.2.1 The general examination shall include only questions selected in an unpredictable way from the authorised
NASA’s collection of general examination questions valid at the date of examination. The candidate shall be
required, as a minimum, to give answers to the number of multiple-choice questions in accordance with
Table 3.
8.2.2 Where not otherwise addressed by nation regulations, there shall be an additional examination on radiation
safety for the radiographic test method.
8.2.3 Examinations on the radiographic test method may include either X- or gamma-radiation, or both,
depending upon the procedure of the certification body.
Table 3 – Required minimum number of questions – levels I and II general examinations
NDT METHOD NUMBER OF QUESTIONS

RT , UT 40
MT , PT 40
8.3 Examination content – Level I and Level II specific examination
8.3.1 The specific examination shall include only questions selected in an unpredictable way from the authorised
NASA’s current collection of specific examination questions related to the categories concerned.
The specific examination may include questions involving calculations, and questions on codes, standards,
specifications and procedures. The candidate shall be required, as a minimum to give answers to 25 multiple
choice questions, but additional essay or narrative answer questions may also be included.
8.3.2 If the specific examination covers two or more categories, the minimum number of questions shall be at
least 30, evenly spread between the categories.
8.4 Examination content – Level I and Level II practical examination
8.4.1 The practical examination shall involve applying the NDT method to prescribed specimens, recording (and
for Level II candidates, interpreting) the resulting information to the degree required, and reporting the
results in the required NASA report format.
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8.4.2 NASA shall ensure that each specimen shall be uniquely identified and have a master report which
includes all the equipment settings used to detect specified discontinuities contained within the specimen.
8.4.3 The master report shall be compiled based upon at least two independent tests, and shall be validated by an
examiner.
8.4.4 Specimens shall contain discontinuities characteristic of those that occur during manufacturing or in service.
(Inherent, processing and in-service discontinuities)
Discontinuities may be natural, artificial or implanted. For RT, the specimens need not contain
discontinuities since these will be exhibited in the radiographs for Level II interpretation.
8.4.5 The number of areas or volumes to be tested shall be adequate to the level and NDT method, and to the
category concerned, and that those areas or volumes contain reportable discontinuities.
8.4.6 The Level I candidate shall follow the NDT instruction(s) provided by the examiner.
8.4.7 The Level II candidate shall select the applicable NDT technique and determine the operating conditions
related to a given code, standard, or specification.
8.4.8 The time allowed for the examination depends on the number of specimens and of their complexity.
The maximum time allowable for each area or volume tested is
 2 hours for level I
 3 hours for level II
8.4.9 Level II candidates shall draft at least one NDT instruction suitable for Level I personnel for each test
specimen tested. The recommended maximum time allowed for this part of the examination is 2 hours.
8.4.10 The minimum number and type of level I and II specimens for practical examination for each category and
rd
method of NDT shall be in accordance with Annex C of ISO 9712 : 2005 3 Edition.
The NASA practical examination requirements are two specimens per category per method for
MT and PT levels I or II. These requirements shall be listed on the NASA examination application form.
(Document number NASACC-086 Rev 1)
8.5 Examination grading – Level I and Level II qualification examinations
8.5.1 An examiner shall be responsible for the grading of the examinations. The general, specific and practical
examinations shall be graded separately.
8.5.2 In order to be successful in the written examination, the candidate shall achieve a minimum grade of 70% in
each of the examination parts.
8.5.3 In order to be successful in the practical examination, the candidate shall achieve a minimum grade of 70%
in each specimen tested.
NOTE: A composite grade shall be determined by simple averaging of the results of the General, Specific
and Practical examinations. Examinations administered for qualification in accordance to SNT-TC-1A, shall
result in a composite grade of 80%.
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8.6 Examination grading – Level III
The grading of the basic and main method examinations shall be done separately. To be eligible for
certification, a candidate shall pass both the basic and main method examinations.
8.7 Examination content – Level III basic examination
8.7.1 The basic examination shall include only questions selected in an unpredictable way from NASA’s authorised
current collection of basic examination questions. The candidate shall be required as a minimum to give answers
to a number of multiple-choice questions in accordance with Table 4.
Table 4 – Minimum required number of basic examination questions.
PART SUBJECT NUMBER OF QUESTIONS
Technical knowledge in materials science , process technology, and types of

A 25
discontinuities.
Knowledge of the certification body’s qualification and certification system based on

B 10
the ISO 9712:2005 Standard. This may be an open book examination
General knowledge of at least four NDT methods as required for level II and chosen by 15
C the candidate from methods within the scope of ISO 9712:2005. These four methods for each test method
shall include at least one volumetric method (UT or RT). total 60
8.7.2 The basic examination should be passed first and remains valid, providing that the first main method
examination is passed within five years after passing the basic examination.
8.7.3 In order to be successful in this examination, the candidate shall achieve a minimum of 70% in each of the
three parts A, B and C as listed in Table 4.
8.8 EXAMINATION CONTENT – Level III Main Method Examination
8.8.1 The main method examination shall include only questions selected in an unpredictable way from the
NASA’s authorised current collection of examination questions. The candidate shall be required as a
minimum, to give answers to the number of multiple-choice questions shown in Table 5.
8.8.2 All candidates for the level III main method examination shall have successfully completed the practical
examination for level II, graded in accordance with 8.5.3, in the appropriate sector and method, including
the drafting of practical instructions for level I.
8.8.3 In order to successfully pass the main method examination, the candidate shall obtain a minimum grade of
70% in each part D, E or F as listed in Table 5.
Table 5 continued on Page 15
Page 14 of 21
Table 5 – Minimum number of main method examination questions
PART SUBJECT NUMBER OF QUESTIONS
D Level III knowledge relating to the test method 30
Application of the NDT method in the category concerned, including the applicable
E codes, Standards, specifications and procedures. This may be an open book examination 20
in relation to Codes, standards, specifications and procedures.
Drafting of one or more NDT procedures in the relevant category. The applicable codes
Standards, specifications and procedures shall be available to the candidate.
F For a candidate who has already drafted a NDT procedure in a Level III examination N/A
NASA may replace the drafting of a procedure with critical analysis of an existing
NDT procedure covering the relevant method and category.
9 QUALIFICATION EXAMINATION – CONDUCT
9.1 GENERAL
9.1.1 All examinations shall be conducted in examination centers established, approved and monitored by the
NASA.
9.1.2 Before commencement of the examination, the candidate shall present to the examiner or invigilator valid
proof of identification.
9.1.3 Any candidate who during the course of the examination does not abide by the examination rules or who
perpetrates, or is an accessory to fraudulent conduct shall be excluded from further examinations for a
period of one year.
9.1.4 Examinations shall be approved by a NASA authorised examiner. The examinations shall be invigilated
and evaluated by an examiner, or by one or more NASA authorized invigilators placed under the examiners
responsibility.
9.1.5 An examiner shall be responsible for grading the examination in accordance with procedures established or
approved by the NASA. An examiner shall not be permitted to examine any candidate that he has trained
for the examination, or who has the same employer as the examiner.
9.1.6 With the approval of the NASA , a candidate for a practical examination may use his own NDT
equipment.
9.2 RE-EXAMINATION
9.2.1 A candidate failing for reasons of unethical behaviour shall wait at least one year before re-applying.
9.2.2 A candidate who fails to obtain the pass grade required for certification may be re-examined in any of the
examination parts twice, provided that the examination takes place not sooner than 30 days after a
previous examination and not later than five years after the original examination. NASA may use its
discretion in allowing an earlier entry in the event that further training acceptable to NASA is undertaken.
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9.2.2 In the event that a candidate has failed the second re-examination, the candidate shall take the examination
in accordance with the procedure for new candidates pending acceptance from NASA.
9.3 EXAMINATION EXEMPTIONS
9.9.1 A certified level I and level II individual changing from one category to another in the same NDT method
shall be required to take only the specific examination and the practical examination, for that method,
concerning the new category.
9.9.2 A certified level III individual changing from one category to another in the same NDT method does not need
to retake the basic examination nor retake the level 3 knowledge part of the main method examination.
10. CERTIFICATION
10.1 A candidate fulfilling all the conditions for Qualification shall be issued with a certificate by the Non-
Destructive Academy of South Africa (NASA).
10.2 CERTIFICATES
Certificates shall include the following:
 The full name and surname of the certified individual

 The date of certification
 The date upon which the certification expires
 The level of certification
 The name of the certification body
 The NDT method
 The applicable category of the method
 A unique personal certificate number
 The signature of the certified individual
 The signature on the certificate of a designated representative of NASA.
10.3 CERTIFICATION VALIDITY
10.3.1 The period of validity shall not exceed five years from the date of certification indicated on the certificate.
10.3.2 Certification shall be invalid
 In any category other than that for which it was issued.

 At the discretion of the NASA after receiving and reviewing evidence of unethical behaviour.
 If the individual fails to meet the visual acuity requirements.
 If a significant interruption takes place in the individuals work in the method for which he is certified, until
such a time as the individual meets requirements for re-certification
 If the individual fails re-certification until such a time as the individual meets the requirements for re-
certification or initial certification.
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10.4 CERTIFICATION RENEWAL
10.4.1 Prior to the completion of the first period of validity, certification may be renewed by NASA for a new
period of similar duration, provided that the certificate holder supplies documentary evidence of :
 satisfactorily fulfilling the vision requirements during the preceding 12 months and
 continued satisfactory work activity, relevant to the certification without significant interruption.
10.5 RE-CERTIFICATION
10.5.1 General
Prior to completion of each second period of validity, or at least every ten years, the certified individual may
be re-certified by NASA for a similar period, provided the individual meets the criterion for renewal (10.4.1),
and meets the following requirements, as applicable:
10.5.2 Levels I and II
The individual shall successfully complete a practical examination that assesses ongoing competence to
carry out work within the scope of the certificate, according to the following:
 The individual shall obtain a grade of at least 70% for each specimen tested.
 A minimum of two specimens per category.
 If a pass is not achieved, two retests of the re-certification shall be allowed within 12 months of the first
attempt at the re-certification examination.
 In the event of failure in the two allowable re-tests, the individual shall not be re-certified and, in order to
regain certification for that level, category and method, the individual shall apply for new certification.
If the individual holds valid certification in a different category of the same method, an exemption in the
general examination will be allowed.
10.5.3 Levels III
10.5.3.1
The individual shall provide evidence of continued qualification confirmed by :
 a) Satisfying the Level II requirements of 10.5.2 for a practical examination as well as the requirements of
10.5.3.2 for a written examination, or
 b) Meeting the requirements of 10.5.3.3 for a structured credit system.
The individual may decide between the examination or credit system for re-certification. If the credit system
is chosen and requires submission of employer’s documents or access to an employer’s premises, the
individual shall provide to NASA a written statement of approval from the employer.
10.5.3.2
Successful completion of a written examination administered by NASA.
 The individual shall successfully complete an examination that includes a minimum of 20 questions on the
application of the test method in the categories concerned demonstrating an understanding of current
standards, codes or specifications, and applied technology. If the individual fails to achieve a minimum
grade of 70% in the re-certification examination, two re-tests of the re-certification examination shall be
allowed within 12months of the first attempt at re-certification.
Page 17 of 21
 In the event that the individual fails the two allowable re-tests, the individual shall not be re-certified, and to
re-gain certification for that category and method shall be required to achieve success in the appropriate
main method examination.
10.5.3.3
Successful completion of the requirements of a structured-credit system in accordance with Annex F
rd
of the ISO 9712 : 2005 3 Edition document. An individual who applies for and does not meet the
requirements of the credit system shall re-certify in accordance with 10.5.3.1 a).In the event of failure at the
first attempt at re-certification by examination, only one re-test of the certification examination shall be
allowed within 12 months of the date of the application for re-certification via the structured-credit system.
11. FILES
NASA shall be responsible for maintaining:
 An updated list of all individuals certified, classified according to level, test method and category
 An individual file for each certificate holder and for each person whose certification has lapsed, or has been
cancelled or withdrawn. This file shall be kept for a period at least equal to the total period of validity plus
the renewal period and shall contain:
 Application forms
 Examination documents, descriptions of specimens, records, results of tests, written procedures and / or
applicable instructions, and grade sheets
 Renewal documents, including evidence of visual acuity and continuous activity
 Reasons for any withdrawal of certification.
All files shall be kept under suitable conditions of safety and confidentiality.
12. CATEGORIES OR (SECTORS)
A category is a particular section of industry or technology where specialized NDT practices are used, requiring
specific product knowledge, skill, equipment and training.
The Non-Destructive academy of South Africa (NASA), when creating categories shall standardise the categories in
rd
accordance with Annex A of ISO 9712 : 2005 3 Edition.
12.1 CATEGORIES
The following Categories have been authorized by NASA and shall be included as a part of the NASA examination
application form (Document number NASACC-086 Rev 1)
12.1.1 Magnetic particle inspection level I
 MT 1.0 Multi-Sector (Welds, Castings and Forgings)

 MT 1.1 Welds
 MT 1.2 Castings
 MT 1.3 Forgings
Page 18 of 21
12.1.2 Magnetic particle inspection level II
 MT 2.0 Multi-Sector
 MT 2.1 Welds
 MT 2.2 Castings
 MT 2.3 Forgings
12.1.3 Liquid penetrant inspection level I
 PT 1.0 Multi-Sector
 PT 1.1 Welds
 PT 1.2 Castings
 PT 1.3 Forgings
12.1.4 Liquid penetrant inspection level II
 PT 2.0 Multi-Sector
 PT 2.1 Welds
 PT 2.2 Castings
 PT 2.3 Forgings
13 CODE OF ETHICS
13.1 Members of NASA shall be required to acknowledge and sign a written code of ethics upon acceptance
to the committee. (Document number NASACC-079 Rev 1)
13.2 All successful candidates that have met all the requirements of the NASA Certification Scheme, shall be
Required, prior to receipt of the NASA Certificate to acknowledge and sign a written code of ethics.
(Document number NASACC-076 Rev 1)
14 SPECIMEN MASTER REPORTS
Each specimen master report shall be compiled and validated by an examiner from at least two independent
reports from tests carried out by appropriately certified Level II or Level III personnel with at least two years
experience in the application of the NDT method for which the specimen is to be used.
The independent test reports from which the master report is compiled shall be retained as records by NASA in
files in accordance with section 11. FILES
It is not necessary for the master report to be signed by the persons carrying out the independent tests, as the
reports shall be retained, but the master report shall be signed and dated by the examiner or the authorised
signatory of NASA.
The master report of the NASA practical examination shall contain at least the following information:
 Name and logo of NASA.

 Specimen identification number hard stamped onto the specimen
 Type of product
 Type of material
Page 19 of 21
 Dimensions
 NDT methods and techniques
 NDT equipment, calibration settings, operating conditions, serial numbers
 Discontinuities contained
 Mandatory reportable discontinuities that shall be recorded by the subsequent candidate
 Validation by examiner or authorised signatory of NASA.
15 GRADING: LEVEL I AND II PRACTICAL EXAMINATIONS
15.1 Grading of the NASA practical examinations for levels I and II NDT methods shall be in accordance with
Table 6 as listed below.
15.2 A candidate failing to report a discontinuity specified on the specimen master report as ‘Mandatory for
candidates to report” when performing the test in the conditions specified in the master report is awarded
zero marks for Part 3 as listed in Table 6 of the practical examination related to the specimen tested.
15.3 The Level II candidate is required to produce an NDT instruction, suitable for Level I personnel, for a
specimen selected by the examiner as listed in Part 4 of Table 6 of the practical examination. When the
candidate is testing a specimen for which no NDT instruction is required (exclusion of Part 4 of Table 6 ), the
grade is calculated as a percentage of the 85 remaining marks.
15.4 In order to be successful, the candidate shall achieve not less than 70% in the NDT instruction writing part,
ie. 10,5 marks out of the 15 marks allowed.
Table 6 continued on Page 21.
Page 20 of 21
NASACC GUIDANCE ON PERCENTILE WEIGHTING OF PRACTICAL EXAMINATIONS

SUBJECT LEVEL I LEVEL II
PART 1 : Knowledge of NDT apparatus % %

a) System control and functional checks 10 5
b) Verification of settings 10 5
TOTAL 20 10
PART 2 : Application of NDT method % %
a) Preparation of the specimen (eg. Surface condition ), including visual examination 5 2
b) For level II, the selection of the NDT technique and determination of operating conditions n/a 7
c) Setting up of the NDT equipment 15 5
d) Performance of the test 10 5
e) Post test procedures ( eg. Demagnetization, cleaning, preservation, housekeeping ) 5 1
TOTAL 35 20
PART 3 : Detection of discontinuities and reporting % %
a) Detection of mandatory reportable discontinuities 20 15
b) Characteristics ( type , position , orientation , apparent dimensions , etc ) 15 15
c) Level II evaluation against code , standard , specification or procedure criteria n/a 15
d) Production of the test report 10 10
TOTAL 45 55
PART 4 : Writing of NDT Instruction ( Level II candidates only ) % %
a) Scope n/a 1
b) Personnel n/a 1
c) Equipment to be used, including settings n/a 3
d) Product ( Description or drawing , area of test , purpose of test ) n/a 2
e) Test conditions , including preparation for testing n/a 2
f) Detailed instructions for application of the test n/a 3
g) Recording and classifying the results of the test n/a 2
h) Reporting the results n/a 1
TOTAL n/a 15
OVERALL GRADE FOR PRACTICAL EXAM 100 100
END.
Page 21 of 21

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WRITTEN PRACTICE

BEN BUYS NISH KANAYE

COMPILED BY : N.KANAYE : SAQCC III ; SNT-TC-1A II DOCUMENT NUMBER : NASACC-075 REV 3

3 Terminology and Definitions 3

4 Symbols and Abbreviated Terms 6

7 Eligibility for Examination 10

8 Qualification Examination – Content and Grading 12

9 Qualification Examination – Conduct 15

14 Specimen master reports 19

15 Grading: Level I and II practical examinations 20

COMPILED BY : N.KANAYE : SAQCC III ; SNT-TC-1A II DOCUMENT NUMBER : NASACC-075 REV 3

 Magnetic Particle Inspection

ISO/IEC 17024 General requirements for bodies operating Certification of persons

SNT-TC-1A: 2006 Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-1A

3 TERMINOLOGY AND DEFINITIONS

COMPILED BY : N.KANAYE : SAQCC III ; SNT-TC-1A II DOCUMENT NUMBER : NASACC-075 REV 3

COMPILED BY : N.KANAYE : SAQCC III ; SNT-TC-1A II DOCUMENT NUMBER : NASACC-075 REV 3

COMPILED BY : N.KANAYE : SAQCC III ; SNT-TC-1A II DOCUMENT NUMBER : NASACC-075 REV 3

4 SYMBOLS AND ABBREVIATED TERMS

COMPILED BY : N.KANAYE : SAQCC III ; SNT-TC-1A II DOCUMENT NUMBER : NASACC-075 REV 3

5.2 The Non-Destructive Academy of South Africa (NASA)

 Shall be responsible for the definition of sectors.

 Shall conform to the requirements of ISO/IEC 17024.

 Shall ensure that practical specimens are sector specific.

COMPILED BY : N.KANAYE : SAQCC III ; SNT-TC-1A II DOCUMENT NUMBER : NASACC-075 REV 3

5.3 EXAMINATION CENTER

The Examination Center shall

 Work under the control of the NASA.

 Apply a documented quality management system approved by the NASA.

 Be fully responsible for all that concerns the authorisation to operate.

COMPILED BY : N.KANAYE : SAQCC III ; SNT-TC-1A II DOCUMENT NUMBER : NASACC-075 REV 3

 Set up and calibrate NDT equipment

 Select the NDT technique for the test method to be used

COMPILED BY : N.KANAYE : SAQCC III ; SNT-TC-1A II DOCUMENT NUMBER : NASACC-075 REV 3

6.4. LEVEL III

6.4.2. Level III personnel shall have demonstrated:

7 ELIGIBILITY FOR EXAMINATION

7.2 Vision requirements – All levels

COMPILED BY : N.KANAYE : SAQCC III ; SNT-TC-1A II DOCUMENT NUMBER : NASACC-075 REV 3

Table 1- Minimum training requirements

7.4 INDUSTRIAL EXPERIENCE

Table 2 – Industrial Experience

COMPILED BY : N.KANAYE : SAQCC III ; SNT-TC-1A II DOCUMENT NUMBER : NASACC-075 REV 3

8 QUALIFICATION EXAMINATION – CONTENT AND GRADING

General and Specific Levels I and II, all disciplines.

8.2 Examination content – Level I and Level II general examination

Table 3 – Required minimum number of questions – levels I and II general examinations

NDT METHOD NUMBER OF QUESTIONS

8.3 Examination content – Level I and Level II specific examination

8.4 Examination content – Level I and Level II practical examination

COMPILED BY : N.KANAYE : SAQCC III ; SNT-TC-1A II DOCUMENT NUMBER : NASACC-075 REV 3

8.5 Examination grading – Level I and Level II qualification examinations

COMPILED BY : N.KANAYE : SAQCC III ; SNT-TC-1A II DOCUMENT NUMBER : NASACC-075 REV 3

8.6 Examination grading – Level III

8.7 Examination content – Level III basic examination

Table 4 – Minimum required number of basic examination questions.

PART SUBJECT NUMBER OF QUESTIONS

Technical knowledge in materials science , process technology, and types of

Knowledge of the certification body’s qualification and certification system based on

8.8 EXAMINATION CONTENT – Level III Main Method Examination

Table 5 continued on Page 15

COMPILED BY : N.KANAYE : SAQCC III ; SNT-TC-1A II DOCUMENT NUMBER : NASACC-075 REV 3

Table 5 – Minimum number of main method examination questions