This specification establishes the requirements for qualification of Welding Engineers employed in the welding industry. The minimum experience, examination, application, qualification, and requalification requirements and methods are defined herein. This specification is a method for engineers to establish a record of their qualification and abilities in welding industry work such as development of procedures, processes controls, quality standards, problem solving, etc.

This standard defines the requirements and program for the American Welding Society to certify welding inspectors. The certification of visual welding inspectors requires documentaiton of experience, satisfactory completion of an examination, and proof of visual acuity. The examination tests the inspector's knowledge of welding processes, welding procedures, destructive tests, terms, definitions, symbols, reports, safety, and responsibilities.