See EN 473 for a full description for levels of competence.
Level 1
This level qualifies personnel to carry out NDT operations according to written instructions under the supervision of a Level 2 or Level 3 person. A Level 1 person has demonstrated competence to:
* set up equipment and carry out tests;
* record and classify the results in terms of written criteria.
Level 2
This level qualifies personnel to perform and direct NDT according to established or recognised procedures and has demonstrated competence to:
* choose the technique for the test method used;
* perform and supervise the test;
* interpret, evaluate and report results according to applicable standards, codes or specifications;
* define the limitations of the testing method for which the qualification covers;
* understand and transform NDT standards and specifications into practical testing instructions adapted to the actual working conditions;
Level 3
This level qualifies personnel to direct any NDT operation for which they are certificated and:
* assume full responsibility for a test facility and staff;
* establish and/or validate NDT instructions or procedures;
* interpret codes, standards, specifications and procedures;
* designate the particular test methods, techniques and procedures to be used.
Pre-examination requirements
Level 1 and Level 2: There are mandatory minimum pre-approval training requirements which are given in the PCN requirements documents.
Pre-examination training courses must be validated by The British Institute of Non-Destructive Testing and need to cover the syllabus over a designated minimum number of hours.
Documented in-house training may account for up to one third of the required training hours. The candidate also has to demonstrate practical experience in line with the requirements of PCN.
Level 3: The candidates have two access routes available which are shown in the PCN requirements documents. Both training and experience requirements depend upon academic background. Note: A mature candidate route is available.
Examinations
The examinations consist of general theory, specific theory and practical parts dependant on level and type of examination.
By holding other PCN qualifications candidates may be eligible for exemptions.
Following an examination, a results notice will be issued by the Test Centre. The certificate will follow the results notice direct from PCN, subject to all experience criteria being met.
Applicable courses
The following courses offer ideal preparation for PCN certification routes.
* Ultrasonic Testing - An Introduction
RTO/UT1
* Ultrasonic Testing - Practical
RTO/UT2
* Ultrasonic Testing, Pre-Approval
RTO/UT3
* Ultrasonic Critical Defect Sizing
RTO/UT8
* Ultrasonic Testing PCN Level 3
RTO/UT11
* Radiographic Testing of Welds
RTO/IR7
* Radiation Safety (Basic)
RTO/IR3A
* Radiation Safety (Supervisor)
RTO/IR3B
* Radiographic Interpretation
RTO/IR2
* MPI/PT,Examination Revision
RTO/ST2
* MPI,Pre-Approval
RTO/ST5
* Magnetic Particle Testing Level 3
RTO/ST8
* Penetrant Testing, Pre-Approval
RTO/ST6
* Penetrant Testing PCN Level 3
RTO/ST9
*Weld Inspector Level 2
RTO/QA7
*Weld Inspector Level 3
RTO/QA17
* Visual Testing
RTO/QA21
* Product Technology
RTO/NDT5
