Making NDT certification in Canada more accessible

Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) is a vital process in a range of industries including oil and gas, aerospace, manufacturing, and infrastructure. Unlike destructive testing, NDT methods – such as magnetic particle testing, penetrant testing, and ultrasonic testing – allow for thorough inspections without compromising material integrity. This ensures that structures and components remain safe and functional while inspectors work to identify potential defects before they cause failures. NDT helps to maintain industry safety and uphold stringent quality standards.

To date, NDT certification in Canada has been managed by a single certification body. Despite the hard work and expertise of those responsible for NDT certification, having only one option led to an industry bottleneck, meaning prolonged processing times, outdated examination methods, and limited accessibility. NDT professionals faced delays in receiving their certifications, which directly impacted their ability to work.

Recognizing these inefficiencies, the CWB Group saw an opportunity to introduce a more responsive and industry-aligned certification process.

For over 75 years, the CWB has been a leader in welding certification and qualification. As the Certification Body for CSA W178.2 – Welding Inspector Certification, the CWB was approached by industry stakeholders to extend its expertise to NDT personnel certification under CAN/CGSB-48.9712. Canada follows a third-party certification system based on ISO 9712, ensuring impartiality and industry-wide trust.

After careful planning and development, the CWB officially launched its NDT Personnel Certification program in November 2024. Accredited under ISO 17024, this program is designed to provide professionals with a trustworthy, seamless, and high-quality certification process.

The new NDT Personnel Certification Program was built to achieve three foundational goals:

• Adherence to industry standards: Certifications align with the CAN/CGSB-48.9712 standard, ensuring international recognition and credibility.
• Faster processing times: Applications can now be processed in days rather than months.
• Increased accessibility: More authorized examination centers to ensure candidates can certify without excessive travel.

The CWB has also implemented real-time application tracking, allowing candidates to stay updated on their certification progress. (The certification process is explained in detail below.)

For professionals, obtaining an NDT certification through the CWB opens doors to greater job opportunities, career advancement, and higher salary potential. Businesses benefit by hiring certified professionals who meet rigorous industry standards, ensuring compliance and high-quality inspections. The industry as a whole benefits from the ongoing pursuit of public safety. A public registry, found on the CWB website, makes it easier to verify certifications.

Looking to the future, the CWB has plans to further enhance its NDT certification offerings, including expanding examination centers across Canada, integrating digital applications through the MyCWB portal, and collaborating with industry experts to continuously refine certification standards and address evolving needs.

The CWB Group’s new NDT Personnel Certification Program marks a significant improvement in the industry by offering a faster, more transparent, and rigorous certification process. With a strong focus on accessibility and meeting industry needs, this program will support both professionals and businesses in achieving their goals.

Those interested in pursuing NDT certification can visit the CWB website, call 1-800-844-6790, or email [email protected] to learn more about this program and how it can benefit your career or organization.

The Certification process: How it works

NDT professionals need a straightforward, efficient, and reliable certification process. That’s why the CWB Group is committed to:

• Simplifying the application process for certification, renewal, and recertification.
• Offering dedicated customer support.
• Providing up-to-date and relevant exams.
• Ensuring fast turnaround times.
• Delivering the same trusted CGSB NDT Certification under CAN/CGSB-48.9712.

Methods

The CWB Group offers certification for the following NDT methods:

• Penetrant Testing (PT): PT2, PT3
• Magnetic Particle Testing (MT): MT2, MT3

Additional methods, including Ultrasonic Testing (UT), Radiographic Testing (RT), and Eddy Current Testing (ET), will be available in the future.

How to Apply

Initial Certification

For professionals seeking their first NDT certification or upgrading their level:

1. Complete Form 501 on the CWB website and submit a photo and vision test (Form 504), training records, and work experience evidence.
2. Training from the past 10 years is acceptable.
3. Exams can be taken before acquiring work experience, although having experience is recommended.

Renewal (every 5 years)

To renew an existing certification:

1. Complete Form 502 on the CWB website and submit the required documents (photo, vision test, training, and work experience evidence).
2. Choose between Structured Credit (an easier option) or a practical renewal exam.

Recertification (every 10 years)

To maintain certification long-term:

1. Complete Form 503 on the CWB website and submit the necessary documentation.
2. Pass the required recertification practical exam.
3. Level 3 professionals must also complete a Structured Credit program or a written exam.

Get started today

CWB Group is committed to advancing the NDT industry by providing a high-quality, accessible, and industry-recognized certification program. Whether you are a new professional entering the field or a seasoned expert seeking renewal, CWB Group is here to support your journey.

For more information or to get started:

• Visit www.cwbgroup.org and search for “CGSB” or “NDT Certification”
• Call us at 1-800-844-6790
• Email [email protected]