What is Level 3 Basic?

The Level 3 Basic Exam gives the candidate a general familiarity of NDT methods as it is their responsibility to acquire knowledge beyond the technical scope of any specific NDT method. It helps to show competence in evaluation and interpretation of results, also sufficient practical knowledge of Product Technology.

This broad knowledge may be acquired through a variety of combinations of education, training and experience.

What are the responsibilities of a individual who is certified to Level 3?

An individual certified to Level 3 has demonstrated competence to perform and direct NDT operations for which he is certified. Level 3 personnel have demonstrated:

  • The competence to evaluate and interpret results in terms of existing standards, codes, and specifications;
  • Sufficient practical knowledge of applicable materials, fabrication, process, 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

Within the scope of the competence defined on the certificate, Level 3 personnel may be authorised to:

  • Assume full responsibility for a test facility or examination centre and staff;
  • Establish, review for editorial and technical correctness and validate NDT instructions and procedures;
  • Interpret codes, standards, specifications and procedures;
  • Designate the particular test methods, techniques and procedures to be used;
  • Within the scope and limitations of any certification held, carry out all tasks at all levels;
  • Provide guidance for NDT personnel at all Levels.

Level 3 certificated personnel may be authorised to carry out, manage and supervise PCN qualification examinations on behalf of the British Institute of NDT.

Where Level 3 duties require the individual to apply routine NDT by a method or methods within a particular product or industry sector, the British Institute of NDT strongly recommends that industry demand that this person should hold and maintain Level 2 certification in the applicable method(s) and sector(s).

The range and scope of PCN certification available at each level is defined in the relevant appendix to these general requirements.

Level 3 Basic training at Lavender International follows the training syllabus detailed in CP 105 and EN 25017 where applicable.

Some schemes do not have specific training hour requirements for Level 3 training and some do, Lavender International has put together a series of Level 3 training programmes which have shown over years of experience to meet the needs of the industry. We use the most recent resources including Study Guides, Handbooks, Question and Answers from ASNT and BINDT.

 

Lavender International follows the BS EN ISO (PCN) 9712 – NDT Qualification and Certification of NDT Personnel Standard for its Level 3 programmes.

All candidates must pass the Basic Exam first, which remains valid for 5 years, which covers:

A) Product Technology
B) PCN General Requirements Document
C) 4 Methods – General Theory – 15 multiple choice questions on each
(note there must be a volumetric method)

Then you take the Method Exam

D) General Theory
E) Specific Training
F) Procedure Writing

Methods available for Level 3 exams – MT, PT, VT, UTW, UTC, UTWP, UTPA, UTTOFD, RTC, RTW, ETWP, ET Welds.

Employer-based schemes

A) SNT-TC-1A
B) EN 4179 – NAS 410

The Company Written Practice is followed by Lavender International to conduct the Level 3 exam as specified in the document with the approval of the Employer.

ASNT NDT Level 3

Lavender International cannot provide ASNT NDT Level 3 exams but can provide advice on the exam and training in preparation for the exam and contact information for exam locations in the UK and worldwide.

 

To progress from Level 2 to Level 3 requires a minimum amount of time spent as a Level 2. However, the time required varies from scheme to scheme and you are advised to review the appropriate scheme document when considering becoming a Level 3.

Minimum Duration of Experience for certification at Level 3 (PCN):

NDT Method: Work Experience in Months:
MT, PT, VT 12 Months
UT, RT, ET 18 Months

Work experience in months is based on a nominal 40 hours/week or the legal week of work. When an individual is working in excess of 40 hours per week, he may be credited with experience based on the total hours, but he shall be required to produce evidence of this experience.

Further advice can be provided by contacting us at Lavender International.

Level 3 Basic Exam programmes at Lavender international take place in the UK.

Initial:

UK office – Penistone USA office – Houston, Texas On-site locations
Click here for available dates Click here for available dates Enquire

If you would like further information about this course. please contact us. 

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