Structural and pressure-bearing welds on construction sites must be carried out by welders who hold valid qualification certificates for the specific welding process, material, and joint type they are working on. Unqualified welding can produce joints that look acceptable on the surface but contain hidden defects that may fail under load. This talk explains the qualification requirements and why every weld must be traceable to a certified welder.
Key Hazards
Structural failure from welds made by unqualified or uncertified welders
Hidden defects such as lack of fusion or porosity in critical structural joints
Non-compliance with project specifications leading to costly rework and delays
Injury from weld failure under load during testing or service
Control Measures
Verify that every welder holds a current qualification certificate for the process they will use.
Check that the certificate covers the specific material type, thickness range, and joint configuration.
Ensure welder qualification certificates comply with BS EN ISO 9606 or the relevant project standard.
Assign a unique welder identification stamp or number to each qualified welder on the project.
Record the welder's ID against every joint on the weld map for full quality traceability.
Arrange requalification tests before any certificate expires to avoid gaps in welder approval.
Ensure non-destructive testing is carried out on completed welds as specified in the inspection plan.
Do not allow any person to carry out structural or pressure-bearing welding without valid certification.
Keep copies of all welder qualification certificates on site for inspection at any time.
Remember
Every welder must hold a valid qualification certificate for the specific welding process in use
Certificates must cover the material type, thickness range, and joint configuration being welded
Each welder must have a unique identification stamp or number for traceability on the weld map
Requalification tests must be arranged before existing certificates expire to avoid approval gaps
No person may carry out structural or pressure welding without current valid certification
Non-destructive testing must be completed on all welds as specified in the inspection and test plan
Applicable Legislation: CDM Regulations 2015 · BS EN ISO 9606 (Welder Qualification) · BS EN 1090-2 (Execution of Steel Structures) · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974