A quality control inspector (QCI) should be qualified in accordance with the fabricator’s or erector’s quality control (QC) program. The QC program should require training and experience to provide basic knowledge of design documents and project specifications, fabrication and erection documents, code and specification requirements, and fabrication and/or erection practices. On-the-job training under the guidance of a qualified individual, as defined in the QC program, is acceptable.
QCI need not be proficient on all aspects of inspection but should be capable of performing the tasks they are assigned. For example, QCI who inspect fit-up should be familiar with the fabrication clause of AWS D1.1, QCI who inspect work related to qualification of WPS or welding personnel should be familiar with the qualification clause of AWS D1.1, and QCI who perform visual inspection should be familiar with the inspection clause of AWS D1.1/D1.1M. Personnel working on projects where other AWS codes are the relevant welding code should be trained in the corresponding clauses of those codes.
Personnel assigned to inspect bolting-related functions should be trained and familiar with RCSC Specification for Structural Joints Using High-Strength Bolts (RCSC, 2020) chapters on fastener components, bolted parts, use of washers, pre-installation verification, installation, and inspection.
QCI should be trained in proper documentation of inspections that may be required by contract documents or the QC program, as applicable.