Non-Destructive Visual Testing Technician

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Non-Destructive Visual Testing Technician (NDTT). A Non-Destructive Visual Testing Technician (NDT Level II) applies a wide range of non-invasive analysis techniques used in science, engineering, and industry to evaluate the properties of a material, component, or system. A Non-Destructive Visual Testing Technician can set up and calibrate equipment (up to a point depending on the nature of the calibration), conduct the inspection according to procedures, interpret, evaluate, and document results in all the testing method(s). A qualified learner will be able to: • Select visual testing technique and prepare instructions. • Prepare for visual testing according to instructions. • Conduct visual testing and then interpret whether indications are relevant or non-relevant, according to prescribed procedures. • Evaluate visual testing results by applying technical methods to examine materials and evaluating results according to codes.

Non-destructive visual testing, a method of non-destructive testing (NDT), is one of the engineering sciences, which is on par with materials sciences, materials engineering, welding sciences and engineering, transport engineering, chemical engineering, and mechanical engineering - which includes finite element analysis (FEA), condition monitoring and fracture mechanics. This Non-Destructive Visual Testing Technician qualification is one of a suites of seven (7) non-destructive testing qualifications. All these non-destructive testing methods are based on international standards. The other six (6) methods are: • Non-Destructive Magnetic Particle Testing Technician. • Non-Destructive Liquid Penetrant Testing Technician. • Non-Destructive Radiographic Testing Technician. • Non-Destructive Eddy Current Testing Technician. • Non-Destructive Ultrasonic Testing Technician. • Non-Destructive Ultrasonic Wall Thickness Testing Operator. The same visual testing methods and technologies, and the same type of codes, standards and procedures are applied in all industrial sectors (e.g., mechanical engineering, welding, materials, construction, mining, transport, chemical and electricity production engineering sectors). Visual testing spans several occupational levels, i.e., engineering, technologist, technician, and operator. This qualification focuses on the Non-Destructive Visual Testing Technician (NDT Level II) and has a part qualification, the Non-Destructive Visual Testing Operator (NDT Level I). Currently, visual testing competencies are found in the Further Education and Training Certificate: Welding Application and Practice (ID 57887) as an elective stream entitled Non-Destructive Testing. However, most of the industry seems to offer non-destructive visual testing programmes based on international standards and programmes. Some offer ISO 9712 based programmes, others offer programmes based on those of the British Standard Institute (BSI, or the European Standard (EN ISO: 9712) or the Training Guidelines in Non-destructive Testing Techniques: 2008 Edition of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) or the standards of the American Society for Non-destructive Testing (ASNT). With the rapid growth of the NDT industry internationally and locally the industry believes that the occupational qualification - Non-Destructive Visual Testing Technician -- would give greater credence to non-destructive visual testing training programmes because these could be compared to national standards, which in turn, would be comparable to international standards. Typical learners are school leavers, TVET college graduates or workers who have been employed in the NDT industry. Typically, a learner will become a Non-Destructive Visual Testing Operator (NDT Level I) and then proceed to become a Non-Destructive Visual Testing Technician (NDT Level II). Learners will receive a high standard of training and education that is occupationally aligned. Once qualified learners will be able to further their education and obtain access to industry-related non-destructive testing programmes available in the sector. Employers in the sector will gain access to suitably qualified Non-Destructive Testing Visual Testing Operators and Technicians to conduct testing at NDT Levels I and II and this shall bring great benefit to the economy as more qualified Non-Destructive Visual Testing Operators and Technicians will be available in industries while these individuals would be benefiting themselves as recruits into the industry this benefiting their societies. By creating career pathways in the sector, employees will be able to progress from visual testing Level I to visual testing Level III and beyond. This will create a healthy employment cycle providing employment opportunities to unemployed youth and those interested in non-destructive testing. The manufacturing industries will be dependent on these skills to quality assure their products and maintain those products in operation.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): Gain access through RPL Learners will gain access to the qualification through RPL for Access as provided for in the QCTO RPL Policy. RPL for access is conducted by accredited education institution, skills development provider or workplace accredited to offer that specific qualification/part qualification. Be exempted from modules through RPL Learners who have acquired competencies of the modules of a qualification or part qualification will be credited for modules through RPL. Be awarded credits for, or towards the qualification or part qualification. RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result. Entry Requirements: The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is: • An NQF Level 3 with Mathematics and Physical Science.

1. Use applicable knowledge to select visual testing technique and prepare instructions. 2. Prepare for visual testing according to instructions. 3. Conduct visual testing and then interpret whether indications are relevant or non-relevant, according to prescribed procedures. 4. Evaluate visual testing results by applying technical methods to examine materials and evaluating results according to codes.