DEP SPECIFICATION

QUALIFICATION OF NDT FOR FABRICATION INSPECTION

Copyright Shell Group of Companies. No reproduction or networking permitted without license from Shell. Not for resale

DEP 30.55.03.30-Gen.

September 2013

ECCN EAR99

DESIGN AND ENGINEERING PRACTICE

© 2013 Shell Group of companies

All rights reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, published or transmitted, in any form or by any means, without the prior
written permission of the copyright owner or Shell Global Solutions International BV.

This document contains information that is classified as EAR99 and, as a consequence, can neither be exported nor re-exported to any country which is under an
embargo of the U.S. government pursuant to Part 746 of the Export Administration Regulations (15 C.F R. Part 746) nor can be made available to any national of such
country. In addition, the information in this document cannot be exported nor re-exported to an end-user or for an end-use that is prohibited by Part 744 of the Export
Administration Regulations (15 C.F.R. Part 744).

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PREFACE

DEP (Design and Engineering Practice) publications reflect the views, at the time of publication, of Shell Global Solutions
International B.V. (Shell GSI) and, in some cases, of other Shell Companies.
These views are based on the experience acquired during involvement with the design, construction, operation and
maintenance of processing units and facilities. Where deemed appropriate DEPs are based on, or reference international,
regional, national and industry standards.
The objective is to set the standard for good design and engineering practice to be applied by Shell companies in oil and
gas production, oil refining, gas handling, gasification, chemical processing, or any other such facility, and thereby to help
achieve maximum technical and economic benefit from standardization.
The information set forth in these publications is provided to Shell companies for their consideration and decision to
implement. This is of particular importance where DEPs may not cover every requirement or diversity of condition at each
locality. The system of DEPs is expected to be sufficiently flexible to allow individual Operating Units to adapt the
information set forth in DEPs to their own environment and requirements.
When Contractors or Manufacturers/Suppliers use DEPs, they shall be solely responsible for such use, including the
quality of their work and the attainment of the required design and engineering standards. In particular, for those
requirements not specifically covered, the Principal will typically expect them to follow those design and engineering
practices that will achieve at least the same level of integrity as reflected in the DEPs. If in doubt, the Contractor or
Manufacturer/Supplier shall, without detracting from his own respons bility, consult the Principal.
The right to obtain and to use DEPs is restricted, and is typically granted by Shell GSI (and in some cases by other Shell
Companies) under a Service Agreement or a License Agreement. This right is granted primarily to Shell companies and
other companies receiving technical advice and services from Shell GSI or another Shell Company. Consequently, three
categories of users of DEPs can be distinguished:
1) Operating Units having a Service Agreement with Shell GSI or another Shell Company. The use of DEPs by these
Operating Units is subject in all respects to the terms and conditions of the relevant Service Agreement.
2) Other parties who are authorised to use DEPs subject to appropriate contractual arrangements (whether as part of
a Service Agreement or otherwise).
3) Contractors/subcontractors and Manufacturers/Suppliers under a contract with users referred to under 1) or 2)
which requires that tenders for projects, materials supplied or - generally - work performed on behalf of the said
users comply with the relevant standards.
Subject to any particular terms and conditions as may be set forth in specific agreements with users, Shell GSI disclaims
any liability of whatsoever nature for any damage (including injury or death) suffered by any company or person
whomsoever as a result of or in connection with the use, application or implementation of any DEP, combination of DEPs
or any part thereof, even if it is wholly or partly caused by negligence on the part of Shell GSI or other Shell Company. The
benefit of this disclaimer shall inure in all respects to Shell GSI and/or any Shell Company, or companies affiliated to these
companies, that may issue DEPs or advise or require the use of DEPs.
Without prejudice to any specific terms in respect of confidentiality under relevant contractual arrangements, DEPs shall
not, without the prior written consent of Shell GSI, be disclosed by users to any company or person whomsoever and the
DEPs shall be used exclusively for the purpose for which they have been provided to the user. They shall be returned after
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copyright of DEPs vests in Shell Group of companies. Users shall arrange for DEPs to be held in safe custody and Shell
GSI may at any time require information satisfactory to them in order to ascertain how users implement this requirement.
All administrative queries should be directed to the DEP Administrator in Shell GSI.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................ 4
1.1 SCOPE........................................................................................................................ 4
1.2 DISTRIBUTION, INTENDED USE AND REGULATORY CONSIDERATIONS ......... 4
1.3 DEFINITIONS ............................................................................................................. 4
1.4 CROSS-REFERENCES ............................................................................................. 6
1.5 SUMMARY OF MAIN CHANGES ............................................................................... 6
1.6 COMMENTS ON THIS DEP ....................................................................................... 6
1.7 DUAL UNITS ............................................................................................................... 6
2. GENERAL................................................................................................................... 7
2.1 BACKGROUND .......................................................................................................... 7
2.2 ORGANIZATIONAL REQUIREMENTS ...................................................................... 7
3. ASSESSING THE NEED FOR QUALIFICATION ...................................................... 8
3.1 GENERAL ................................................................................................................... 8
3.2 GENERAL CLASSIFICATION OF NDT JOBS ........................................................... 8
3.3 REVIEW WHETHER NDT IS “WITHIN THE SCOPE OF CODES AND
STANDARDS” ........................................................................................................... 10
3.4 ASSESSING WHEN ROUTINE NDT IS IN A CRITICAL ROLE ............................... 11
4. ESTABLISHING REQUIREMENTS FOR QUALIFICATION ................................... 12
4.1 GENERAL PROCESS .............................................................................................. 12
4.2 ELEMENTS OF NDT SYSTEM NEEDING QUALIFICATION .................................. 12
4.3 THOROUGHNESS OF A QUALIFICATION ............................................................. 15
5. DEVELOPMENT OF A QUALIFICATION SCHEME ............................................... 16
5.1 GENERAL PROCESS .............................................................................................. 16
5.2 PREPARE TECHNICAL JUSTIFICATION WITH PRACTICAL TRIALS .................. 17
5.3 QUALIFICATION BODY ........................................................................................... 17
5.4 IMPLEMENTATION OF QUALIFIED NDT ............................................................... 18
6. REFERENCES ......................................................................................................... 19

APPENDICES
APPENDIX A NDT QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS IN QUALITY SYSTEMS .............. 20

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1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 SCOPE
This DEP specifies requirements and gives recommendations for qualification of a
non-destructive testing (NDT) system to be applied during fabrication and construction.
Section 2 provides general definitions of the scope of NDT qualification and organizational
requirements and responsibilities.
Section 3 provides the assessment process to identify the need for qualification of NDT
systems.
Section 4 covers the implementation of a qualification.
This is a revision of the DEP of the same number dated February 2012; see (1.5) regarding
the changes.

1.2 DISTRIBUTION, INTENDED USE AND REGULATORY CONSIDERATIONS

Unless otherwise authorised by Shell GSI, the distribution of this DEP is confined to Shell
companies and, where necessary, to Contractors and Manufacturers/Suppliers nominated
by them. Any authorized access to DEPs does not for that reason constitute an
authorization to any documents, data or information to which the DEPs may refer.
This DEP is intended for use in facilities related to oil and gas production, gas handling, oil
refining, chemical processing, gasification, distribution and supply/marketing. This DEP
may also be applied in other similar facilities.
When DEPs are applied, a Management of Change (MOC) process shall be implemented;
this is of particular importance when existing facilities are to be modified.
If national and/or local regulations exist in which some of the requirements could be more
stringent than in this DEP, the Contractor shall determine by careful scrutiny which of the
requirements are the more stringent and which combination of requirements will be
acceptable with regards to the safety, environmental, economic and legal aspects. In all
cases the Contractor shall inform the Principal of any deviation from the requirements of
this DEP which is considered to be necessary in order to comply with national and/or local
regulations. The Principal may then negotiate with the Authorities concerned, the objective
being to obtain agreement to follow this DEP as closely as possible.

1.3 DEFINITIONS
1.3.1 General definitions
The Contractor is the party that carries out all or part of the design, engineering,
procurement, construction, commissioning or management of a project or operation of a
facility. The Principal may undertake all or part of the duties of the Contractor.
The Manufacturer/Supplier is the party that manufactures or supplies equipment and
services to perform the duties specified by the Contractor.
The Principal is the party that initiates the project and ultimately pays for it. The Principal
may also include an agent or consultant authorised to act for, and on behalf of, the
Principal.
The word shall indicates a requirement.
The word should indicates a recommendation.

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1.3.2 Specific definitions

Term Definition
NDT The party that carries out the NDT and is responsible for the delivery of the
Contractor NDT-operators and necessary equipment and documentation for the NDT-
qualification and production inspection, including the requested reporting.
NDT System The combination of NDT technique, NDT equipment, Procedure, Personnel.
Fabrication Inspection of equipment before it is placed in service.
Inspection
Critical NDT Criticality in this DEP is related to the fabrication of a piece of equipment, in
a Project Quality Plan. Criticality is related to effect of NDT not performing
as per requirements, impacting project schedule and the quality of the
fabricated goods.
Technical A Technical Justification (TJ) is a collection of all the information which
Justification provides evidence about the capability of an NDT technique as applied to a
specific component. It may include, for example, physical reasoning,
mathematical modelling, results from test piece trials, field NDT results or
experimental studies as appropriate to demonstrate that the considered
NDT is adequate for the intended application.

1.3.3 Abbreviations

Term Definition
ASME American Association of Mechanical Engineers (see code references)
EN European Norm
ENIQ European Network for Inspection Qualification
FFS Fitness for Service
FMECA Failure Mode, Effect and Consequence Analysis
ISO International Standards Organization (see code references)
ITP Inspection and Test Plan
MFL Magnetic Flux Leakage
MT Magnetic Testing
NDE Non-destructive Examination (also known as NDT)
NDT Non-destructive Testing (also known as NDE)
POD Probability of Detection
POFA Probability of False Alarm (also called False Call Rate)
PQP Project Quality Plan
PT Penetrant testing
QA/QC Quality Assurance/Quality Control
RT Radiographic Testing
SCE Safety Critical Element
TJ Technical Justification
UT Ultrasonic Testing

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1.4 CROSS-REFERENCES
Where cross-references to other parts of this DEP are made, the referenced section or
clause number is shown in brackets ( ). Other documents referenced by this DEP are listed
in (6).

1.5 SUMMARY OF MAIN CHANGES

This DEP is full revision of the DEP of the same number dated February 2012. This has
been a major rewrite and the changes are too numerous to list here.

1.6 COMMENTS ON THIS DEP

Comments on this DEP may be submitted to the Administrator using one of the following
options:

Shell DEPs Online Enter the Shell DEPs Online system at

(Users with access to
Shell DEPs Online)
https://www.shelldeps.com
Select a DEP and then go to the details screen for
that DEP.
Click on the “Give feedback” link, fill in the online
form and submit.

DEP Feedback System Enter comments directly in the DEP Feedback

(Users with access to System which is accessible from the Technical
Shell Wide Web) Standards Portal http://sww.shell.com/standards.
Select “Submit DEP Feedback”, fill in the online form
and submit.

DEP Standard Form Use DEP Standard Form 00.00.05.80-Gen. to record

(Other users) feedback and email the form to the Administrator at
standards@shell.com.

Feedback that has been registered in the DEP Feedback System by using one of the above
options will be reviewed by the DEP Custodian for potential improvements to the DEP.

1.7 DUAL UNITS

This DEP contains both the International System (SI) units, as well as the corresponding
US Customary (USC) units, which are given following the SI units in brackets. When
agreed by the Principal, the indicated USC values/units may be used.

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2. GENERAL

2.1 BACKGROUND
Nondestructive testing (NDT) is an important part of the quality assurance process
applied during the fabrication of new installations. Regulations of various kinds are in
place to ensure that the NDT is performing adequately. High-level requirements are
found in fabrication codes, industry standards on NDT, and professional requirements
(NDT training, certification, etc). During implementation, NDT is subject to a Quality
regime to ensure compliance with the requirements for testing.
A large proportion of NDT used during fabrication inspection is of a “routine” nature and
does not require special qualification before it is implemented. For a smaller fraction of
the NDT, applied regulations may impose some “prescribed” level of qualification; this is
typically applicable for the more high-end NDT applications like “UT in lieu of RT” as per
ASME VIII Div. 2, or NDT applied to critical asset categories (like pipeline girth weld
inspection. However, conditions may exist in which NDT is in a critical role that warrants
a certain level of qualification, in order to ensure that the NDT will perform as required.
This may apply to NDT classed as “routine” or NDT with “prescribed” qualification.
In this DEP, an assessment process is provided that starts (3) with the selection of those
NDT jobs that need further review to determine whether qualification is required. This
review process is applied to all NDT jobs in a Project. It makes use of relatively simple
criteria obtained from the Project and from a description in the applicable codes and
standards of the scope of NDT.
In the next step, when NDT jobs have been identified for further review, guidance is
provided to:
• determine the elements of the NDT System to be qualified and the thoroughness
of qualification (4),
• develop a qualification scheme (5),
• implement the qualification.
Further in this Section, guidance is provided on the roles and responsibilities of the
organization, as well as personnel competency, to ensure that the need for qualification
is properly assessed, and that the result of a qualification is an objective and
independent statement of NDT capability.

2.2 ORGANIZATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

1. Qualification of NDT should be implemented in the quality systems of the organizations
responsible for the manufacturing of materials and fabrication of equipment and
construction of installations (called a Project).
2. For major projects, NDT should be embedded in a Quality System compliant with
DEP 82.00.10.10-Gen.
3. For existing operations involved with new-built fabrication or alterations or repair,
qualification of NDT should be covered by a Quality System within the Inspection or
Integrity Management Department.
2.2.1 Responsibility for qualification
The Principal should assign roles and responsibilities to staff (typically in the Quality
Department) to ensure that NDT used in the Project is adequately qualified, or that access
can be obtained for staff to carry out the necessary NDT qualification tasks.
(Appendix A) provides guidance for specifying such roles and responsibilities.
2.2.2 Qualification included in the Quality System
The Quality System should provide a procedure specifying minimum requirements for the
qualification of NDT, for types of equipment, and for types of NDT used.

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(Appendix A) provides guidance on how to amend the Quality System with such
elements.

3. ASSESSING THE NEED FOR QUALIFICATION

3.1 GENERAL
1. All NDT jobs in a Project shall be assessed to determine whether there is a need to
review any requirements for qualification.
2. The output of this assessment shall be the division of NDT jobs in two groups:
a) the requirement for qualification is to be explored further
b) no further assessment is required.
In this Section (3), guidance is given on how to divide the NDT jobs in these two
groups. Two aspects elements have to be assessed: first an assessment is made
whether or not the NDT is within the scope of the applicable Code or Standard, and
secondly, whether or not the NDT in a critical role.
Simple criteria are used for these assessments, taken from criticality classifications
developed in Project Quality Plans, and from description of the scope of the NDT
specified in the applicable codes and standards. Three assessment steps are made:
a general classification of all NDT jobs (3.2), followed by a specific assessment
whether the NDT applied can be considered “routine” or “special” (3.3) and an
assessment of job criticality (3.4). The actual requirements for qualification are
addressed in (4).

3.2 GENERAL CLASSIFICATION OF NDT JOBS

1. NDT jobs shall be divided into groups by classifying the jobs in accordance with
Figure 1. In the triangle, the NDT jobs are divided in three levels:
a. “Routine” NDT, covered by Codes and Standards
b. Special NDT, outside the generally accepted application range of Codes and
Standards
c. New NDT
2. A further classification divides the triangle in a left and right section, which represent:
a. critical NDT jobs
b. non-critical NDT jobs
3. NDT jobs in the two top layers (special and new NDT), and “routine” NDT applied in
critical NDT jobs shall be reviewed to establish whether or not qualification is required.
NDT that uses fracture mechanics-based acceptance criteria automatically classifies
as critical.

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Shaded area: • No guidelines available;

New NDT
assessment required • Outside scope of Code;
• Covered by Project
Special NDT Specifications
Always assessment

NDT covered by Codes,

Standards
“Routine” NDT

All NDT jobs

Critical NDT jobs:
Always assessment

Figure 1 Categories of NDT jobs for which the need for qualification has to be
assessed
Examples are given to illustrate which types of NDT populate the different areas in the
NDT qualification triangle of Figure 1:

Lower part, This represents all “routine” NDT that is not in a critical role, and is
white within the scope of instructions provided in Codes and Standards.
section
Such NDT does not require additional qualification. For operator
qualification, the use of the regular certification schemes are
deemed sufficient
This group of NDT jobs represent the bulk of NDT jobs during
fabrication in Projects
Example: Routine inspection of vessel or pipe welds, using for
instance radiography, manual UT, but also more advanced
techniques like Time of Flight Diffraction or Phased Array UT.

Lower part, This represents routine NDT, but applied to critical jobs.
shaded
For such NDT jobs qualification requirements may be required by
section
Codes and Standards; if not, additional qualification may be
required to obtain additional assurance that NDT is performing
adequately.
Example: Qualification requirements are built into the codes for girth
weld inspection of subsea pipelines (see for instance
DEP 37.81.42.35-Gen.), and in codes for vessel inspection using
“UT in lieu of RT” (as per ASME VIII Division 2).

Middle This level in the triangle covers Special NDT; it is typically based on
level existing techniques, but is outside the generally accepted scope of
the available Codes and Standards.
In some cases Project Specifications may cover the use of such
NDT.
This level of NDT always needs review whether qualification is
required.

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Example 1: Weld geometries may impose access restrictions for

NDT (like thickness transitions, angled joints of nozzles and tubular
or structural connections).Such access restrictions would lead to an
incomplete examination, of which the acceptance is normally dealt
with by the supervising parties on the work floor. For critical NDT
jobs the uncontrolled acceptance of impaired examination may not
be acceptable; this should require enhanced procedures in the first
place, followed by an appropriate level of qualification.
Example 2: Some fabrication codes for vessels, pipework; tanks
have gaps in the requirements for inspection of coarse grained weld
materials. The correction of such gaps may require combinations of
Construction and NDT Codes and Standards from different
organizations (e.g., ASME, EN, and ISO).
Example 3: A modification (hot tap) implemented on a large
diameter subsea gas pipeline required the NDT to be qualified.
Although standard ultrasonic weld examination techniques were
applied acceptance criteria had to be adjusted to a mix of Code and
Fitness for Service (FFS) requirements; also the Probability of false
positive calls had to be demonstrated to be low enough to avoid
unnecessary re-weld. Therefore the NDT went through a full
qualification.

Top of the This represents new NDT for which there are no Standards, but
triangle also no or limited knowledge about performance of the new NDT.
For such “new” NDT the qualification should demonstrate that the
capability is adequate, that no unknown factors jeopardize the
performance, and that NDT teams understand the operation of the
new system and procedures.
Example: Heavy wall components, such as forged or welded Tee’s
(e.g., Sweepolet®) are being manufactured for use in ultra-high
pressure services. This requires new NDT that needs design and
testing, followed by extensive qualification, including modelling of
the NDT performance, testing on mock-up test block (open trial)
and blind trials with adequate numbers of defects to assess
Probability of Detection and accuracy of sizing.

3.3 REVIEW WHETHER NDT IS “WITHIN THE SCOPE OF CODES AND STANDARDS”
This Section provides guidance to assess whether NDT falls in the lower level of the
triangle in Figure 1, i.e., can be considered “routine”, and is thereby within the generally
accepted scope of the applicable codes and standards, or is outside and should be
considered “special”.
1. To identify whether NDT is classified as “routine” (i.e., in the lower level in Figure 1), the
following two properties should be assessed:
a. Is the NDT method allowed by the fabrication Code?
b. Is the NDT within the scope of a recognized NDT Standard?
2. Assessments of the above steps should be conducted by a NDT engineer, or a NDT
technician, who is knowledgeable in Codes and Standards on fabrication NDT, with a
qualification level of at least Level II (ASNT SNT-TC-1A, ACCP, ISO 9712 or
equivalent).
3. The assessment should preferably start as early as possible in a Project, and may be
refined and updated in later stages, when more specific details of components become
available.

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Examples of routine NDT outside the scope of the Standard:

a. Coverage for volumetric examination of weld zones by UT may be reduced due
to the geometry of a weld (thickness transitions next to the weld; nearby other
welds; a corner weld (nozzle) with welded overlay on the inner surface; width of
the weld cap; etc.).
b. On larger wall thicknesses, the need to use optimum UT beam angles to detect
planar flaws, or the use of the tandem technique to detect near-vertical flaws (a
requirement in many DEPs) may be limited by access restrictions.
c. Fabrication Codes allow materials of construction that lead to coarse grained
weld materials, but the UT Standards referenced to may not provide suitable
instructions.

3.4 ASSESSING WHEN ROUTINE NDT IS IN A CRITICAL ROLE

This Section provides guidance to assess whether routine NDT is carried out in a critical
job and would thereby require further assessment of the need to review requirements for
qualification.
1. All “routine” NDT needs review whether it is applied in a critical NDT job.
In Projects operating a Quality Plan in accordance with DEP 82.00.10.10-Gen., the
Quality Plan will provide an assessment of NDT job criticality.
2. If no such Quality System is in use, the Principal should determine which alternative
process has to be implemented to assess the criticality of the NDT jobs.
The flow scheme in Figure 2 shows the decision logic.

Start:
All “routine” NDT jobs

Intervention Is Criticality No
No No critical role -
Levels Assessment
No assessment
provided by required (by
for qualification
Project? Principal)

Yes Yes

No critical role - No Intervention Apply approved process to

No assessment Levels 1 or assess NDT Criticality
for qualification 2?

Yes
Intervention
Critical role -
Levels >
Assess need for
defined
qualification
criteria?

Figure 2 Decision flow scheme showing two ways to assess criticality of routine
NDT

3. When NDT job criticality is based on Intervention Levels, as per assessment in a

Project Quality Plan (PQP) in accordance with DEP 82.00.10.10-Gen., NDT should be
considered critical when applied to equipment items that have an Intervention level of
1 or 2.
Guidance on how to perform Quality Intervention and Criticality Ratings can be
obtained from “Capital Projects Quality Management” – Project Standard 13, from

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the related Project Guideline “Inspection Strategy Framework for Projects” - Project
Guide 13c, and from DEP 31.22.00.30-Gen.
4. When an alternative process is applied to assess NDT criticality, the applicable criteria
should be applied to assess the need for qualification.
5. For alternative processes to determine NDT job criticality, dedicated processes should
be used.
Examples of such dedicated processes are:
• Assessment of a Criticality Rating per “Inspection Strategy Framework for
Projects” - Project Guide 13c.
• Failure Mode, Effect and Consequence Analysis (FMECA) applied to NDT
failing to perform during fabrication.
6. When a FMECA process is applied, risks should be scored on the Shell RAM (Risk
Assessment Matrix);
7. The applied procedure and criteria should be approved by the Principal.
8. The assessment should be carried out by persons competent with the assessment of
risk profiles in projects together with persons competent with the development of NDT
procedures, assessing NDT performance and NDT qualification.

4. ESTABLISHING REQUIREMENTS FOR QUALIFICATION

4.1 GENERAL PROCESS

1. For all NDT jobs that have been identified for assessment, the need for qualification
should be established.
2. This assessment should produce one of the following outcomes:

No qualification The review endorses the procedure and any applicable QA

is required measures

Qualification is Either for the whole NDT System, or for one or several
required elements (procedure, technique, equipment, personnel).

3. When qualification is required, the following two elements should be specified:

a. The qualification; see (4.2);
b. The thoroughness of qualification; see (4.3).
The actual development of a qualification scheme is discussed in (5).
4. Before embarking on any qualification, the NDT procedure must be fully developed.
5. Any measures from the Quality System that supports the delivery of NDT performance
should be identified and defined.
This includes defining the scope of the inspection (i.e., the range of objects such as
materials, geometries, dimensions), and the requirements driving the inspection
(Fabrication Code, fabrication requirements, flaw types, and acceptance criteria from
Code or based on FFS).

4.2 ELEMENTS OF NDT SYSTEM NEEDING QUALIFICATION

Default rules are provided that indicate the elements of the NDT System that need
qualification. NDT job criticality and NDT maturity are the main parameters that drive
which elements need qualification.
For instance: qualification can be limited to personnel if all other elements have a known
performance. It could also be extended to other elements if these are new or have been

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modified heavily. It could even include the technique if a proper performance

demonstration has never taken place or the evidence of it has not been documented.
The categorization of NDT jobs results in five groups with typical (default) qualification
requirements, as indicated in Figure 3 (shaded areas).

New NDT: “Full” qualification Non- routine NDT

Non-routine NDT in critical

and non-critical NDT jobs:
NDT System qualification

Routine, Complex NDT:

NDT System qualification Routine NDT

NDT with Code-required

qualification
Routine Simple NDT:
Operator qualification

All NDT jobs

Critical jobs = Qualification required
= No qualification required

Figure 3 Default requirements for qualification of the elements of the NDT

system
Below, the categories of NDT jobs with specific qualification requirements are
discussed:
4.2.1 NDT jobs: Routine, non-complex NDT
This group concerns mature NDT with known performance. The criticality of the job
warrants assurance that the performance will be delivered. Generally, the qualification
will focus on operator performance, in combination with the effectiveness of measures
from the Quality system.
The qualification should focus on demonstrating NDT Operator skills.
The decision to request for qualification would be based on an assessment (as part of
the Project Quality Plan) of the NDT service provider and the Fabricator (quality system)
to deliver consistent NDT services of an acceptable level.
4.2.2 NDT jobs: “NDT with Code-required Qualification”
This group concerns “routine” NDT where there is industry consensus that the typical
applications require assurance by a qualification effort, prescribed by the code/standard.
Qualification may focus on parts or the whole NDT System, dependent on the source of
variability.
1. The qualification shall be based on the requirements in the Code or Standard.
Example 1: Operator qualification only: In API RP 2X (manual UT on structural
joints), an operator qualification test is required. The operator needs to test a small
number of qualification samples to demonstrate adequate skill to detect and size the
flaws introduced. There is no qualification of the technique (angle beam UT) as this
is considered mature and relatively robust.
Example 2: Technique/procedure/operator qualification: Under ASME VIII Division 2,
when vessel welds are inspected by “UT in lieu of RT”, as per ASME V. This

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specifies testing of a small number of qualification samples that reflect the material
properties, dimensions and geometry of the objects to be inspected, and requires
correct detection and evaluation of reference flaws to demonstrate capabilities of
identifying the smallest flaws that should be detected. With this qualification test, the
code is testing a broader set of parameters of the NDT system, including the
equipment (employing automated or semi-automated scanning with computer based
data acquisition and analysis abilities), procedure settings, and operator skills.
4.2.3 Routine, complex NDT:
This group concerns “routine” NDT, but applied to more complex cases in critical NDT
jobs, while Codes and Standards do not require qualification.
Qualification should focus on the procedure, equipment and operator.
The aim is to demonstrate that the procedure is set up properly, and that the operators
are capable to handle the equipment and procedure. It is recognized that the underlying
technique has a proven performance when applied to materials and component
geometries that are within the application range of the code.
The decision to qualify the NDT is typically based on a criticality assessment (in the
Project Quality Plan) that assesses the complexity of the NDT job (e.g., difficult
geometry, unusual dimensions such as very thin or very thick, and difficult materials, but
all within the scope of the code), assesses the consequence of NDT failing to perform
(e.g., generating unnecessary repairs), and assesses any lack of experience of the NDT
service provides with such complex NDT jobs.
4.3.4 “Special” NDT, applied to critical and non-critical jobs
This group concerns NDT that is classed “special” for one or more reasons:
a. the technique is not covered by a Code or Standard, or is outside the generally
accepted application range of the NDT Standard;
b. the applicable standard may not provide acceptance criteria matching the
technique capability;
c. access restrictions could cause incomplete examination;
d. the NDT teams may have limited experience with the special techniques, etc.
1. The first step after observing such shortcomings or weaknesses should be to re-design
the procedure.
2. Additional, non-NDT related measures may also be taken, to compensate for any
unresolved shortcomings or weaknesses of the NDT.
3. Qualification should focus on the shortcomings of the initial procedure and on any
remedies implemented.
The aim is to demonstrate that the shortcomings and/or weaknesses in the NDT
procedure have been addressed adequately, and that any additional measures are
effective in compensating for the impairment of the NDT performance.
Example 1: Manual UT applied to welds with restricted access may reduce the
detection reliability. This may be compensated by using automated UT.
Example 2: Inspection of welds of storage tanks according to API 653 allows UT in
lieu of RT, and the code offers two levels of Fitness for Service based acceptance
criteria, which requires sizing of length and height of flaws. Tanks with coarse-
grained weld materials would require the use of compression angle beam probes. To
apply such UT in isolation (no RT, hence UT in lieu of RT) would require sizing the
length and height of flaws. This UT capability has been demonstrated and accepted
for pipeline girth welds. But when applied to storage tank welds, it would require full
qualification of method, system and operator.

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4.3.5 New NDT

This group of NDT is not covered by a Code or Standard, and there is a lack of shared
experience within company and industry with the capability and performance of such
new NDT.
A “full” qualification should be required and include:
a) demonstrating the suitability of the technique selected
b) a quantified demonstration of adequate probability of detection (POD)
c) an acceptable probability of false positive calls
d) if applicable, an acceptable sizing accuracy
e) operator qualification.
Such qualification normally requires use of test blocks with large numbers of flaws
and representative properties built in, such that they resemble conditions occurring
on the objects to be inspected.
The decision to qualify is driven by absence of appropriate Codes and Standards
and lack of knowledge about the performance of (most elements of) the NDT
System.
Example: Tee’s in heavy wall pipework can be forged or welded, and be of carbon
steel or alloys. Such components may be used in plant with high or extreme risk
levels, which require reliable product quality, therefore effective NDT. The UT of
forgings, notably those made of alloyed materials, is a special skill, not very
abundant in industry. Such UT may also be limited, notably when stringent
requirements are imposed on acceptable flaw sizes in very heavy wall components.

4.3 THOROUGHNESS OF A QUALIFICATION

Thoroughness of a qualification is related to the effort to demonstrate performance. This
can start by developing a Technical Justification, which is a desk-study, comprising of
collecting and reviewing available performance data and assessing whether this
demonstrates performance adequately. If that is not adequate, experimental trials can
be added, either using open or blind test samples; by choosing the number of samples
and defects the level of thoroughness can be further varied.
1. In the next step of the process, the thoroughness of qualification should be
determined.
Table 1 provides default levels of thoroughness for qualification, if not already
specified by Codes and Standards.
2. If a lower level of qualification seems more appropriate, a deviation of the default level
of thoroughness should be supported by an approved Technical Justification.

Table 1 Default levels of thoroughness of qualification is dependent on the

maturity of the NDT

NDT maturity level Level of thoroughness of qualification

(critical NDT jobs)

Routine, simple NDT Development of a Technical Justification (TJ);

Routine, complex NDT Additional testing on a small set of flaws in representative test
samples (open trials)

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Non-routine Additional testing on a small to large set of flaws in test samples

that resemble the objects to be examined (open trials if
emphasis is only on the technique setting, and including blind
trials if emphasis is also on operator performance)

New NDT Quantitative assessment of the performance including blind trials

(establishing POD and POFA) with a appropriate (often large:
30-90 no’s)) set of flaws in test samples that represent all factors
that have an important influence on NDT performance, including
all relevant properties of the to be inspected objects and
expected flaws

5. DEVELOPMENT OF A QUALIFICATION SCHEME

5.1 GENERAL PROCESS

1. A qualification scheme should be developed and approved by following the process
shown in Figure 5.
2. The process should start with the development and documentation of a Technical
Justification (TJ).
3. The TJ should be approved by a Qualification Body as defined in Section 5.3.
Development of a TJ is a desk study, in which technical information is collected,
analysed, and possibly combined with modelling (which may be parametric studies
on parts of the NDT or full POD modelling, to reduce the amount of samples and
trials).
After a TJ has been developed and approved, the outcome could be:
a. The NDT System, including relevant QA measures, is endorsed. The NDT
may be implemented;
b. Practical trials may be required, after which the TJ is updated with the
results;
i. If approved, NDT may be implemented
ii. If rejected, NDT is rejected;
The latter may need improved NDT or alternative fabrication.
4. Qualifications for personnel developing and approving a TJ should be in accordance
with (Appendix A).

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Practical
All NDT jobs identified to have trial req’d? No
qualification requirements
Yes

Define purpose of NDT and the Practical trial on test samples:

reason for qualification • Define number samples and flaws
• Develop qualification scheme
(witnessing req’d?)
• Reference inspection needed (to
Determine default scope using job
characterize flaws
criticality and NDT classification
• Conduct trials (ensure objective
routine/non-routine: NDT rejected
results of blind trials)
• Part or full qualification
• Confirm flaws (sectioning)
• Thoroughness level X
• Analyse results
• Combine with TJ and develop
capability statement
Develop Technical Justification (TJ)

Verify Updated Technical Justification

Verify Technical Justification (TJ)

No TJ+Practical No
TJ
trial
acceptable?
acceptable?

Yes √ Yes
Implement NDT

Figure 4 Flow diagram showing the two-stage qualification process, with

Technical Justification only, or extended with practical trials on test
samples
5. Guidance for development of a qualification scheme may be obtained from the
following:
a. CEN/TR 14748
b. ASME V, Article 14, Examination System Qualification

5.2 PREPARE TECHNICAL JUSTIFICATION WITH PRACTICAL TRIALS

1. The personnel involved should have a specialist level of experience with the NDT
technique of concern, and experience in the development and implementation of
qualification trials.
2. When developing blind trials that have to produce POD, POFA or sizing accuracy,
personnel should have a working knowledge with the statistical analysis used to
design a qualification process and to process data from such qualification trials.

5.3 QUALIFICATION BODY

1. The Qualification Body may be a party of the Principal, or an external party.
2. The Qualification Body shall be independent of the organization within the Project or
Operating Company that is responsible for execution of the NDT,
3. The Qualification Body shall not be part of the Supplier of NDT System involved.
4. The level of independence of the Qualification Body should be clearly defined in the
objectives of the qualification (e.g., the Principal or Supplier Technical Authority;
Verification Body; Regulatory Body, etc.).
5. The level of involvement of the Qualification Body should be clearly described in the
objectives of the TJ (defining which elements of the NDT System are subject to

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qualification; defining test blocks and flaws; witnessing trials, reviewing results;
approving the conclusions, etc.).
6. It is the Principal’s responsibility to ensure that - dependent on the complexity of the
qualification - the Qualification Body has adequate expertise in the NDT techniques
subjected to the qualification, the evaluation of TJs, the design of test pieces, the
introduction of flaws and their verification, and the setup of a quantitative qualification.

5.4 IMPLEMENTATION OF QUALIFIED NDT

The results of a qualification should be documented, and held available in a Qualification
Dossier, for the time that use will be made of the NDT.
Any future use of the NDT application may require retrieval of the results to obtain
evidence of its appropriateness. When future NDT has slight modifications, incremental
qualification may reduce the effort to qualify the modified NDT.

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6. REFERENCES
In this DEP, reference is made to the following publications:
NOTES: 1. Unless specifically designated by date, the latest edition of each publication shall be used,
together with any amendments/supplements/revisions thereto.
2. The DEPs and most referenced external standards are available to Shell staff on the SWW (Shell
Wide Web) at http://sww.shell.com/standards/.

SHELL STANDARDS
DEP feedback form DEP 00.00.05.80-Gen.
Equipment criticality in pressure vessel design DEP 31.22.00.30-Gen.
Qualification of girth weld inspection with automated ultrasonic DEP 37.81.42.35-Gen.
inspection (AUT) systems
Project quality assurance DEP 82 00.10.10-Gen.
Capital Projects Quality Management – Project Standard 13 Shell Project Procedure
Inspection Strategy Framework for Projects - Project Guide 13c Shell Project Procedure

EUROPEAN STANDARDS
Non-destructive testing – Methodology for qualification of CEN/TR 14748
non-destructive tests

AMERICAN STANDARDS
Recommended practice for subsea production system reliability API RP 17N
and technical risk management
Recommended Practice for Ultrasonic and Magnetic Examination API RP 2X
of Offshore Structural Fabrication and Guidelines for Qualification
of Technicians - Fourth Edition
Tank inspection, repair, alteration, and reconstruction API STD 653
ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section V, Article 14 ASME/BPVC SEC V,
Examination System Qualification Article 14
ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section VIII, Division 2 - ASME/BPVC SEC VIII-2
Alternative rules for construction of pressure vessels
Recommended practice for personal qualification and certification ASNT SNT-TC-1A
in nondestructive testing

INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS
Non-destructive testing – Qualification and certification of ISO 9712:2012
NDT personnel – Fourth edition

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APPENDIX A NDT QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS IN QUALITY SYSTEMS

A.1 REQUIREMENTS FOR QUALIFICATION

The Quality System should include requirements for qualification of NDT applied during
fabrication.
For instance, it could include a statement:
“All NDT applied during the Project will be assessed for the need for qualification and, if
required, will be qualified, in compliance with minimum requirements specified in
DEP 30.55.03.30-Gen.”

A.2 PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS

1. The Quality System should indicate which staff in the Project or QA department will be
responsible for NDT qualification tasks in different phases of the project, or how the
Project makes personnel available for such tasks. NDT Qualification Levels are
referencing to ASNT SNT-TC-1A, ACCP, ISO 9712, or equivalent codes.
2. The minimum qualifications of staff shall be as per requirements in this DEP.
3. The following qualification tasks shall require staff with formal qualifications:
a. Personnel competent to assess the need for qualification of NDT during:
i. Design phase (Level 2; experience with Project QA, with NDT for
fabrication)
ii. Detailed Design (Level 3 in the applicable NDT method)
iii. Fabrication (Level 3 in the applicable NDT method)
See (A.3) for specific roles during these Project phases.
b. Personnel competent to develop a Technical Justification (without practical
trials), or conduct a standard practical trial as specified in standards; (Level 3
in the applicable technique; or a degree in engineering with a minimum of
practical work experience in NDT (BS: 5 years; MS: 3 years; Ph.D: 1 year)).
c. Personnel competent to review the results of technical justifications. (Level 3
in the applicable technique; or a degree in engineering with a minimum of
practical work experience in NDT (BS: 5 years; MS: 3 years; Ph.D: 1 year) and
experienced with at least two NDT qualification jobs).
d. Personnel competent to perform qualification trials that include practical test
trials, including the fabrication and verification of test samples. (same
qualifications as under (c) above, and in addition experience with quantitative
methods for NDT qualification (POD, POFA; sizing accuracy) and experience
with the statistical methods used to design a qualification test and analyse the
results.)

A.3 REVIEW FOR NDT QUALIFICATION NEEDS THROUGHOUT THE PROJECT

The following reviews for NDT qualification needs should be conducted:
a. During Concept Selection and Design Phase, a high level review should be carried
out to establish whether critical components will be fabricated that make NDT difficult
or creates conditions that fall outside the capability of routine inspection capability.
Timely identification of such components will allow identification of NDT that is
critical during manufacturing and fabrication, as well as during operations; and if
required, it will allow preparation of special NDT.
b. The review may be supported by a Technology Risk Assessment which may include
a Failure Mode Effect and Criticality Analysis, e.g., following API RP 17N, or a Risk-
Based Inspection (RBI) assessment to cover the impact of fabrication product
reliability on the operations phase.

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c. During Detailed Design, a continuous review should be performed to assess the

inspectability of all components, and to ensure that components are designed and
fabricated in such a way that “routine NDT” is effective as much as possible,
reducing the need for special NDT that would need extensive qualification.
d. During Fabrication and Construction, a continuous review should be conducted of
the actual build of the components and conditions for access and time available for
NDT, to ensure that NDT is executed within the range of its capability.

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