American Welding Society QC47: 2016-AMD2 Specification for AWS Certification of Welders and Accreditation of Test Facilities (AWS QC47) is a comprehensive, updated specification designed to enhance the professional credibility of welders, and Accredited Test Facilities (ATFs), while simplifying certification maintenance.With its alignment to modern industry practices & the integration of digital tools, QC47 offers a seamless, enhanced certification experience.
Key Benefits of QC47:
- 1. Comprehensive Requirements - All requirements related to programs that test welders for the purpose of AWS certification can now be found in one document – AWS QC47. This specification replaces AWS QC4, AWS QC7 and all of their supplements providing ease of reference and standardized terminology.
- 2. Digital Tools for Welders - Update unlimited certification processes with a new annual subscription and gain access to the AWS Shopfloor online continuity log. This log enables you to maintain current certifications on your schedule and avoids the need to chase down a foreman or supervisor for verification with new electronic signature feature.
- 3. Digital Tools for ATFs - Welder performance qualification test records validated against applicable codes identifying deficiencies and guidance to correct in real time.
- 4. The Wait Is Over - No need to wait for your wallet card to arrive by post, as online credentials will be delivered instantaneously once certified by AWS—coming soon!Â
Important Updates:
1. One Specification: Requirements for certified welder and ATF programs now available in one specification – QC47.
2. Welder Performance Qualification Endorsement Requirement: To assure quality of testing, ATF Qualifiers (previously referred to as test supervisors) are now required to obtain the AWS Welder Performance Qualification Endorsement (WPQ1) in addition to maintaining an active AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) or AWS Senior Certified Welding Inspector (SCWI) certification.
3. ATF Specialization: Accredited Test Facilities under QC47 will have the ability to apply for accreditation under expanded scopes to highlight specialized capabilities.
4. Two Welding Procedure Paths: AWS encourages the use of Standard Weld Procedure Specifications; QC47 introduces new requirements for submitting non-standard WPSs to AWS for review and acceptance for use. The use of non-standard WPSs must be approved by an active CWI or SCWI who holds the AWS Welding Procedure Qualification Endorsement.
5. AWS Standardized Routing Sheet: Improve consistency of instruction and testing of welder candidates using the AWSÂ Standardized Routing Sheet.
Overview for ATFs:
Facilities transitioning to QC47 will have varied paths based on where they are in their current accreditation journey. The high level overview of steps required includes:
1. Read the QC47 Specification: Familiarize yourself with the updated requirements.
2. Develop a Bridge Document: Outline the necessary changes to your quality management systems.
3. Update/Write Your Quality Manual: Submit new quality manual with your application for accreditation to QC47 Use this Quality Manual Guide to assist with documenting your quality management processes.
4. Ensure Qualifiers (aka Test Supervisors) Meet New Qualifications: Confirm supervisors hold active CWI or SCWIÂ certifications with the AWS Welder Performance (WPQ1)Â Qualification Endorsement.
5. Submit Application and Relevant Documents to AWS for Review: Next steps will vary based on where the ATF is in their accreditation cycle which are defined below.
NOTE: There will be no charge to existing ATFs for the review of quality manuals revised to meet QC47.
Next steps will vary based on where the ATF is in their accreditation cycle. For details and to learn more, visit:
https://www.aws.org/businesses/facility-accreditation/Â qc47-specification
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