Saep 1140

Engineering Procedure 04 October 2021
SAEP-1140
Qualification and Certification of Saudi Aramco NDT
Personnel
Document Responsibility: Nondestructive Testing Standards Committee
Previous Revision: 9 July 2019 Next Revision: 04 October 2026

Contact: Aziz U. Rehman (REHMAU0C) Page 1 of 25
© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2021
Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

Document Responsibility: Nondestructive Testing Standards Committee SAEP-1140
Issue Date: 04 October 2021
Next Revision: 04 October 2026 Qualification and Certification of Saudi Aramco NDT Personnel
Contents
Summary of Changes.................................................................................................... 4
1 Scope ...................................................................................................................... 9
2 Conflicts and Deviations .......................................................................................... 9
3 References .............................................................................................................. 9
3.1 Saudi Aramco References ................................................................................ 9
3.2 Industry Codes and Standards .......................................................................... 9
4 Terminology .......................................................................................................... 10
4.1 Definitions........................................................................................................ 10
5. Nondestructive Testing (NDT) Methods ................................................................ 11
6. Levels of Qualifications ......................................................................................... 12

6.1 Trainee ............................................................................................................ 12
6.2 NDT Level I ..................................................................................................... 12
6.3 NDT Level II .................................................................................................... 12
6.4 NDT Level III ................................................................................................... 13
6.5 NDT Instructor ................................................................................................. 13
7. Qualification Requirements ................................................................................... 13
8. Responsibilities ..................................................................................................... 17
8.1 Saudi Aramco NDT Certifying Authority .......................................................... 17
8.2 Ndt Level III ..................................................................................................... 17
8.3 Ndt Instructor ................................................................................................... 17
9. Certification Of NDT Personnel ............................................................................. 18
9.1 Certification ..................................................................................................... 18
9.2 Expiration ........................................................................................................ 18
9.3 Recertification.................................................................................................. 19
9.4 Suspension...................................................................................................... 19
9.5 Revocation ...................................................................................................... 19
9.6 Reinstatement ................................................................................................. 20
10. Examination........................................................................................................ 20
10.1 Vision .............................................................................................................. 20
10.2 General (Written) For NDT Level I And Ndt Level II ........................................ 21
10.3 Specific (Written) For NDT Level I And Ndt Level II ........................................ 21
10.4 Practical Examination For NDT Level I ............................................................ 22
10.5 Practical Examination For NDT Level II ........................................................... 22
© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2021 Page 2 of 25

10.6 NDT Level III Examinations ............................................................................. 23

10.7 Administration And Grading Of Examinations ................................................. 23
10.8 Reexamination ................................................................................................ 24
11. Qualification & Certification Records .................................................................. 24
Document History ........................................................................................................ 25

Summary of Changes
Paragraph Number
Change Type
Technical Change(s)
Previous Revision Current Revision (Addition, Modification,
Deletion, New)
(9 July 2019) (04 October 2021)
ISO/TS 25107: 2019

3.2 3.2 Addition
Nondestructive Testing – NDT
Training Syllabuses
ANSI/ASNT CP-105: 2020
3.2 3.2 Modification Topical Outlines for Qualification

of Nondestructive Testing
Personnel

3.2 3.2 Modification
Standard for Qualification and
Certification of NDT Personnel
Formal Training
An organized and documented

program of activities designed to
impart the knowledge and skills
4.3 4.3 Modification required to be qualified to this
procedure. Formal training may
be a mix of classroom, practical,
and programmed self-instruction
as approved by Saudi Aramco
NDT Certifying Authority
Experience
Actual performance of an NDT

method conducted in the work
environment resulting in the
4.4 4.4 Modification acquisition of knowledge and skill.
This does not include formal
classroom training, but may
include laboratory and on-the-job
training as defined by the Saudi
Aramco NDT Certifying Authority.

Paragraph Number
Change Type
Technical Change(s)
Deletion, New)
(9 July 2019) (04 October 2021)
NDT Level III
An individual possessing a
currently valid NDT Level III
Certificate and certified in
accordance with this procedure.
An individual possessing a
certificate issued by ASNT, ACCP
Professional Level III, CSWIP, or
PCN central certification
programs can also be certified in
accordance with this procedure.
A Level III certificate issued by
central certification program other
than those listed shall be
evaluated by the Saudi Aramco
NDT Certifying Authority on a
case-by-case basis for
compliance to this engineering
procedure.
5.1.1.1 Film Radiography (RT)
5.1.1.2 Digital Radiography (DR)

5.1 5.1 Addition
5.1.1.3 Computed
Radiography (CR)
The word “Calibration” is replaced

with “Standardization”.
The word “Calibration” is replaced

with “Standardization”.
The NDT Level III shall have

sufficient practical background in
applicable materials, fabrication,
and product technology to
establish techniques and to assist
in establishing acceptance criteria
where none are otherwise
available.

Paragraph Number
Change Type
Technical Change(s)
Deletion, New)
(9 July 2019) (04 October 2021)
An NDT Instructor shall have the

skills and knowledge to plan,
organize, and present NDT
classroom, laboratory,
demonstration, and/or education
programs in accordance with
course outlines approved by the
Saudi Aramco NDT Certifying
Authority or his designate. The
NDT Instructor shall possess a
6.5 6.5 Modification currently valid NDT Level III
Certificate in the method for which
he is responsible and shall have a
minimum of 40 hours of
instruction in teaching and
training techniques. The Saudi
Aramco NDT Certifying Authority
may require a practical
demonstration by the NDT
Instructor for the NDT method
being taught
Training Hours for DR & CR are

Added.
Table 1 Table 1 Addition
A Note added to specify the
training requirements for
previously RT certified personnel
All training shall be presented by

an NDT Instructor. However, the
NDT Instructor may use
personnel with specialized
experience, e.g., metallurgists,
7.1.3 7.1.3 Modification welding engineers, equipment
manufacturers and suppliers, etc.,
who are not qualified in
accordance with this Procedure to
assist in the presentation of
specific information.

Paragraph Number
Change Type
Technical Change(s)
Deletion, New)
(9 July 2019) (04 October 2021)
Expereience Requirements for

DR & CR Added
Table 2 Table 2 Addition Experience Requirements for UT,

MT, PT, VT, ET, AE, IT, ToFD
and PAUT are revised to align
with ANSI/ASNT CP-189: 2020.

Authority
Saudi Aramco NDT Standards

Committee Chairman is the Saudi
Aramco NDT Certifying Authority,
with Saudi Aramco NDT
Standards Committee Vice
Chairman as backup. Qualification
and certification of all levels of
NDT personnel is the
responsibility of the Saudi Aramco
8.1 8.1 Modification NDT Certifying Authority. The
Authority may designate other
NDT Level III's to provide training
and certification services as
necessary.
The NDT Section of Inspection

Technical Support Division shall
administer the NDT personnel
qualification and certification
program as governed by this
procedure.
An NDT Level I or II certificate

issued by a central certification
program other than those listed
9.1.2.3 9.1.2.3 Modification above shall be evaluated by the
Authority on a case-by-case basis
for compliance to this Procedure.

Paragraph Number
Change Type
Technical Change(s)
Deletion, New)
(9 July 2019) (04 October 2021)
An employee's supervisor is
responsible for tracking
requirements of paragraphs 9.4
9.5 9.5
and 9.5 and communicating any
Modification
deficiencies to the Saudi Aramco
Note Note
NDT Certifying Authority and NDT
Section of Saudi Aramco
Inspection Department.
Number of Questions for DR and

CR added.
Addition &
Table 3 Table 3
Number of Questions for ToFD &
Modification
PAUT Specific (Written) Level II
are modified
When an examination is
administered for qualification,
each candidate shall achieve a
grade of at least 70% on each
written examination, whereas for
Addition & practical examinations, each
10.7.2 10.7.2 candidate shall achieve a grade
Modifiction of at least 80%. A composite
average grade of 80% is required
to be eligible for certification. All
certification examinations shall
have equal weight in determining
the average grade.
Whenever possible, the

10.7.3 & 10.8.3 10.7.3 & 10.8.3 examination request can be
Addition initiated through Saudi Aramco
Note Note approved communication
applications

1 Scope
1.1 This Engineering Procedure establishes the requirements for qualification

and certification of Saudi Aramco nondestructive testing (NDT) personnel.
This procedure is in alignment with ANSI/ASNT CP-189 and ISO 9712.
1.2 This Engineering Procedure applies to all personnel whose specific tasks or jobs
require appropriate knowledge of the technical principles underlying
Nondestructive Testing methods for which they have responsibilities within the
scope of their employment. These specific tasks or jobs include, but are not
limited to, performing NDT, analyzing NDT data, and evaluating NDT work.
2 Conflicts and Deviations
Any conflicts between this document and other applicable Mandatory Saudi
Aramco Engineering Requirements (MSAERs) shall be addressed to the EK&RD
Coordinator.
Any deviation from the requirements herein shall follow internal company
procedure SAEP-302.
3 References
All referenced specifications, standards, codes, drawings, and similar material

are considered part of this engineering procedure to the extent specified, applying
the latest version, unless otherwise stated.
3.1 Saudi Aramco References
Saudi Aramco Engineering Procedures
SAEP-302 Waiver of a Mandatory Saudi Aramco Engineering

Requirements
3.2 Industry Codes and Standards
International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
ISO 9712: 2012 Nondestructive Testing – Qualification and Certification of

NDT Personnel
ISO/TR 25107: 2006 Nondestructive Testing – Guidelines for NDT Training

Syllabuses
ISO/TS 25107: 2019 Nondestructive Testing – NDT Training Syllabuses

American National Standards Institute / American Society for Nondestructive

Testing
Topical Outlines for Qualification of Nondestructive Testing

Personnel
Standard for Qualification and Certification of NDT

Personnel
4 Terminology
4.1 Definitions
Qualification: The education, skills, training, knowledge, and experience

required personnel to properly perform the duties of a specified NDT level.
Certification: Written testimony that an individual has met the applicable

requirements of this procedure.
Formal Training: An organized and documented program of activities designed

to impart the knowledge and skills required to be qualified to this procedure.
Formal training may be a mix of classroom, practical, and programmed self-
instruction as approved by Saudi Aramco NDT Certifying Authority.
Experience: Actual performance of an NDT method conducted in the work

environment resulting in the acquisition of knowledge and skill. This does not
include formal classroom training, but may include laboratory and on-the-job
training as defined by the Saudi Aramco NDT Certifying Authority.
NDT Level III: An individual possessing a currently valid NDT Level III Certificate
and certified in accordance with this procedure. An individual possessing a
certificate issued by ASNT, ACCP Professional Level III, CSWIP, or PCN central
certification programs can also be certified in accordance with this procedure. A
Level III certificate issued by central certification program other than those listed
shall be evaluated by the Saudi Aramco NDT Certifying Authority on a case-by-
case basis for compliance to this engineering procedure.
Documented: The condition of being in written or electronic form.

Qualification: An institutionalized program, prescribed by appropriate authorities

that is offered by schools, institutes, organizations, colleges, or universities
established for the sole purpose of providing instruction in an orderly, planned,
and systematic fashion.
5. Nondestructive Testing (NDT) Methods
5.1 The qualification and certification of nondestructive examination personnel in

accordance with this procedure is applicable to each of the following methods
and/or techniques:
5.1.1 Radiographic Testing (RT)
5.1.1.1 Film Radiography (RT)
5.1.1.2 Digital Radiography (DR)
5.1.1.3 Computed Radiography (CR)
5.1.2 Radiographic Film Interpretation (RTFI)
5.1.3 Ultrasonic Testing (UT)
5.1.3.1 Ultrasonic Thickness Testing (UTT)
5.1.3.2 Manual Ultrasonic Shear Wave (UT)
5.1.3.3 Time of Flight Diffraction (ToFD)
5.1.3.4 Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT)
5.1.3.5 Ultrasonic Corrosion Mapping (CM)
5.1.3.6 Ultrasonic Step Wise Cracking (SWC)
5.1.4 Magnetic Particle Testing (MT)
5.1.5 Liquid Penetrant Testing (PT)
5.1.6 Visual Testing (VT)
5.1.7 Electromagnetic Testing (ET)
5.1.7.1 Eddy Current Testing (ECT)
5.1.7.2 MFL Tank Floor Testing (MFLT)

5.1.8 Acoustic Emission (AE)
5.1.8.1 Acoustic Emission Testing (AE)
5.1.8.2 AE Valve Leakage Testing
5.1.9 Infrared Testing (IR)
5.2 Individual NDT methods may be subdivided into other specialized techniques as
approved by the Saudi Aramco Head NDT Level III. Performance qualification
shall be required in each of the applicable specialized techniques.
6. Levels of Qualifications
Five classifications of NDT qualification are defined in terms of the skills and
knowledge required in a given method or methods to perform specific NDT
activities.
6.1 Trainee
A person who is not yet certified to any level shall be considered a Trainee.
A Trainee shall work with a certified individual and shall not independently
conduct any tests, interpret or evaluate the results of a test, or report test results.
6.2 NDT Level I
NDT Level I personnel shall have the skills and knowledge to perform specific
standardization, specific tests, and with prior written approval of the NDT Level
III, perform specific interpretations and evaluations for acceptance or rejection
and document the results, in accordance with specific approved NDT procedures.
The NDT Level I shall be able to follow approved nondestructive testing
procedures and shall receive the necessary guidance or supervision from a
certified NDT Level II or NDT Level III individual.
6.3 NDT Level II
NDT Level II personnel shall have the skills and knowledge to set up and
Standardize equipment, to conduct tests, and to interpret, evaluate and document
results in accordance with procedures approved by an NDT Level III. The NDT
Level II shall be thoroughly familiar with the scope and limitations of the methods
to which certified and should be capable of directing the work of trainees and
Level I personnel. The NDT Level II shall be able to organize and report the
results of nondestructive examinations.

6.4 NDT Level III
An NDT Level III shall have the skills and knowledge to establish techniques and
procedures; interpret codes, standards, and specifications; designate the
particular test methods and techniques to be used; and to verify the adequacy of
NDT procedures. The NDT Level III is responsible for the NDT operations for
which he is qualified and to which he is assigned, and shall be capable of
interpreting and evaluating NDT results in terms of existing Codes, standards,
and specifications. The NDT Level III shall have sufficient practical background
in applicable materials, fabrication, and product technology to establish
techniques and to assist in establishing acceptance criteria where none are
otherwise available. The NDT Level III shall have general familiarity with other
appropriate NDT methods, and shall be qualified to train and examine NDT Level
I and Level II personnel.
6.5 NDT Instructor
An NDT Instructor shall have the skills and knowledge to plan, organize, and
present NDT classroom, laboratory, demonstration, and/or education programs
in accordance with course outlines approved by the Saudi Aramco NDT Certifying
Authority or his designate. The NDT Instructor shall possess a currently valid
NDT Level III Certificate in the method for which he is responsible and shall have
a minimum of 40 hours of instruction in teaching and training techniques. The
Saudi Aramco NDT Certifying Authority may require a practical demonstration by
the NDT Instructor for the NDT method being taught.
7. Qualification Requirements
7.1 Candidates for certification as NDT Level I or II shall complete sufficient

organized training to become familiar with the principles of the method and the
practices of the applicable test techniques. This training shall be conducted in
accordance with an approved course outline approved by the Saudi Aramco NDT
Certifying Authority or his designate. The course shall include all relevant topics
for the NDT method, ANSI/ASNT CP-105, ISO/TR 25107 and ISO/TS 25107 shall
be utilized as reference material. Courses shall contain additional topics as
deemed necessary by the Saudi Aramco NDT Certifying Authority or his
designate. Training programs shall include sufficient examinations to
demonstrate that the necessary information has been comprehended.
7.1.1 To receive credit for training hours, the candidate shall have passed, with
a minimum score of 80%, a final examination covering the topics
contained in the course outline.
7.1.2 The minimum number of hours of classroom training required for NDT
Level I and Level II are described in Table 1.

7.1.3 All training shall be presented by an NDT Instructor. However, the NDT
Instructor may use personnel with specialized experience, e.g.,
metallurgists, welding engineers, equipment manufacturers and
suppliers, etc., who are not qualified in accordance with this Procedure
to assist in the presentation of specific information.
7.1.4 Training requirements for NDT Level III personnel will be satisfied if the
individual holds a current Level III Certificate in the specific NDT Method.
Table 1 – Initial Training Requirements for Level I and Level II NDT Personnel
Classroom Hours in NDT Method

NDT Method
Level I Level II
RT 40 40
DR1 40 40
CR1 40 40
RTFI N/A 40
UT 40 40
UTT 8 16
MT 12 8
PT 8 8
VT 8 16
ET 40 40
MFLT 16 12
AE 40 40
AE Valve Leakage 8 8
IR 40 40
ToFD2 N/A 40
PAUT2 N/A 80
CM2 N/A 40

Classroom Hours in NDT Method

NDT Method
Level I Level II
SWC2 N/A 40
Notes:
1- Hours are based on training for a technician for no prior RT experience. If

training is built on RT Level II certificate, then 16 hrs of classroom training
is acceptable.
2- Candidates must be certified or have previously certified Level II or Level

III in Ultrasonic Testing prior to attending the training course.
7.2 Candidates for certification shall have acquired the practical experience to assure
they are capable of performing the duties of the level in which certification is being
sought.
7.2.1 The minimum number of hours of experience required for NDT Level I
and NDT Level II are summarized in Table 2.
7.2.2 Experience requirements for NDT Level III will be satisfied if the
individual holds a current NDT Level III certificate in the specific NDT
method.
Table 2 – Experience Requirements for NDT Level I and NDT Level II Personnel
Hours in NDT Method Hours in NDT Field

NDT Method
Level I Level II Level I Level II
RT 210 630 400 1200
DR 210 630 400 1200
CR 210 630 400 1200
RTFI N/A 220 N/A 1200
UT 210 630 400 1200
UTT N/A 80 N/A 160
MT 70 210 130 400
PT 70 140 130 270

Hours in NDT Method Hours in NDT Field

NDT Method
VT 70 140 130 270
ET 210 630 400 1200
MFLT 70 210 130 400
AE 210 630 400 1200
AE Valve Leakage N/A 135 N/A 270
IR 210 1260 400 1800
ToFD N/A 320 N/A N/A
PAUT N/A 320 N/A N/A
CM N/A 160 N/A N/A
SWC N/A 160 N/A N/A
Notes:
Experience shall be based on the actual hours worked in the specific NDT method.
A person may be qualified directly to NDT Level II with no time as a certified Level I,
providing the required experience consists of the sum of the hours required for NDT
Level I and Level II.
The required minimum experience shall be verified and documented by method and by
hour with supervisor or NDT Level III approval.
While fulfilling total NDT experience requirements, experience may be gained in more
than one (1) method. Minimum experience hours must be met for each method.
Candidates must be certified or have previously been certified Level II or Level III in UT
prior to obtaining field experience in ToFD, PAUT, CM, and SWC method(s).
7.3 For Level I and Level II, a candidate's previous training and experience may be
accepted by Saudi Aramco, if verified and documented in writing by the previous
employer(s) or, for training, by the previous training agency(ies). A copy of the
previous NDT certification shall be verified. Any claimed training and experience
which cannot be verified and documented to the satisfaction of the responsible
NDT Level III shall be considered invalid.

7.4 For Level III personnel, the Inspection Department shall verify and document the
current validity of a candidate's NDT Level III Certificate.
7.5 An NDT Instructor shall be designated by the Saudi Aramco NDT Certifying
Authority or delegated authority. The designation shall be in writing and
annotated in the individual's qualification records.
8. Responsibilities
8.1 Saudi Aramco NDT Certifying Authority
Saudi Aramco NDT Standards Committee Chairman is the Saudi Aramco NDT
Certifying Authority, with Saudi Aramco NDT Standards Committee Vice
Chairman as backup. Qualification and certification of all levels of NDT personnel
is the responsibility of the Saudi Aramco NDT Certifying Authority. The Saudi
Aramco NDT Certifying Authority may designate other NDT Level III's to provide
training and certification services as necessary.
The NDT Section of Inspection Technical Support Division shall administer the
NDT personnel qualification and certification program as governed by this
procedure.
8.2 NDT Level III
An NDT Level III is responsible for evaluating questionable test results and
resolving problems in interpretation of test results. He is the ultimate technical
authority for Saudi Aramco regarding the acceptance or rejection of items based
on NDT findings when evaluated in accordance with his interpretation of existing
Codes, standards, and specifications. The NDT Level III is responsible for
determining the particular test methods, techniques, and procedures to be used
to examine specific items and is responsible for providing specialized test
procedures and training in the use of these procedures whenever required.
The NDT Level III is also responsible for developing and writing NDT procedures
when applicable and as required to address specific NDT inspection activities at
operating facilities and projects.
8.3 NDT Instructor
An NDT Instructor is responsible for training and examination of NDT Level I and
NDT Level II personnel in preparation for qualification examinations.

9. Certification of NDT Personnel
9.1 Certification
9.1.1 Certification of NDT personnel shall be based on demonstration of

satisfactory training, experience, and examinations as determined by the
requirements outlined in this procedure. Prior to performing, reviewing,
or evaluating NDT, all personnel shall be certified in accordance with this
procedure.
9.1.2 Central Certification
9.1.2.1 NDT Level I and Level II certifications obtained through ACCP,

PCN, and CSWIP shall be accepted as meeting the
requirements of this procedure, additional examination is
waived.
9.1.2.2 AWS CWI, AWS SCWI, or CSWIP 3.1 certification shall be

accepted as meeting Visual Testing Level II certification,
additional examination is waived.
9.1.2.3 An NDT Level I or II certificate issued by a central certification

program other than those listed above shall be evaluated by the
Saudi Aramco NDT Certifying Authority on a case-by-case
basis for compliance to this Procedure.
9.1.2 Supplemental NDT qualification(s) added to a main NDT method are not
acceptable as certification in a new method. Certification can only be
obtained by examination in a single NDT method.
9.1.2 External NDT Testing Services
Examination services for NDT certification can be obtained from NDT

equipment manufacturers and authorized training and certification
centers.
9.2 Expiration
Individual certification shall expire when:
9.2.1 Employment with Saudi Aramco is terminated.
9.2.2 At the end of five years for NDT Level I and II.
9.2.3 The Level III certificate has expired for Level III personnel.

9.3 Recertification
9.3.1 NDT Level I and Level II personnel shall be re-qualified for certification
by examination in accordance with Section 9 of this Procedure.
9.3.2 NDT Level III personnel shall be re-certified every five years by verifying
that the Level III certificate is current in each method for which
certification is sought.
9.4 Suspension
Individual certification shall be suspended if:
9.4.1 The vision examination interval exceeds one year. Certification is

reinstated concurrently with passing the vision examination; or
9.4.2 The individual has not performed the duties in the method(s) for which
certified during any six month period; or
9.4.3 The individual's performance is determined to be deficient in the method

or technique for specific documented reasons; or
9.4.4 For NDT Level III personnel, when the Level III certificate has not been
renewed.
9.5 Revocation
Individual certification shall be revoked when:
9.5.1 The individual has not performed the duties in the method(s) for which
certified during any consecutive twenty-four months period; or
9.5.2 For NDT Level III personnel, the Level III certificate has been revoked;
or
9.5.3 The individual's performance is determined to be deficient in the method

or technique for specific documented reasons; or
9.5.4 An individual's conduct is deemed by the Saudi Aramco NDT Certifying

Authority, or his designate, to be or has been unethical or incompetent.
Note:
An employee's supervisor is responsible for tracking requirements of paragraphs

9.4 and 9.5 and communicating any deficiencies to the Saudi Aramco NDT
Certifying Authority and NDT Section of Saudi Aramco Inspection Department.

9.6 Reinstatement
9.6.1 Suspended Certifications
Reinstatement of suspended certifications for NDT Level I, Level II or

Level III shall be determined by the Saudi Aramco NDT Certifying
Authority, or his designate.
9.6.2 Expired or Revoked Certifications
Certifications which have expired or have been revoked may only be

reinstated by complying with Section 10.
9.7 At the discretion of the Saudi Aramco NDT Certifying Authority, or his designated
representative, NDT personnel may be re-examined any time.
10. Examination
The Saudi Aramco NDT Certifying Authority or his designated representative

shall administer and grade all examinations. The examinations to verify physical
and technical qualifications shall consist of the following:
10.1 Vision
Individual certification shall be revoked when:
10.1.1 The candidate shall be capable of reading a minimum of Jaeger

Number 1 or equivalent type and size letters at a distance of not less
than 30.5 cm (12 in) on a standard Jaeger test chart with at least one
eye. The ability to perceive an OrthoRater minimum of 8 or similar test
pattern is also acceptable.
10.1.2 NDT personnel for all methods shall demonstrate the capability of
distinguishing and differentiating contrast between colors or shades of
gray used in the NDT method as determined by the Saudi Aramco NDT
Certifying Authority.
10.1.3 Vision examinations, including color differentiation, shall be administered

on the initial certification date and on an annual basis thereafter.
10.1.4 Vision examinations shall be conducted in accordance with an approved

written procedure and conducted by personnel approved by an NDT
Level III designated by the Saudi Aramco NDT Certifying Authority.

10.2 General (Written) for NDT Level I and NDT Level II
A general “closed book” examination, approved by the Saudi Aramco NDT

Certifying Authority, shall be administered in accordance with paragraph 10.7 of
this procedure. The minimum number of questions required for each method is
listed in Table 3. The examination, representing a cross section of the basic
principles of the applicable NDT method, shall be administered to the Level I or
Level II candidate. The general written examinations shall be administered
without access to reference material (closed book) except that necessary data,
such as graphs, tables, specifications, procedures, and codes, will be provided.
10.3 Specific (Written) for NDT Level I and NDT Level II
A specific “open book” examination, approved by the Saudi Aramco NDT

Certifying Authority, shall be administered in accordance with paragraph 10.7 of
this procedure. The minimum number of questions required for each method is
listed in Table 3. The examination, representing a cross section of the various
types of equipment, operating procedures, and test techniques that the applicant
may encounter during specific assignments, shall be administered to each
candidate. The specific examination shall address the specifications or Codes
and acceptance criteria used in the applicable NDT method as used by Saudi
Aramco.
Table 3 – Number of Questions in General & Specific Examinations
General (Written) Specific (Written)

NDT Method
RT 40 40 20 20
DR 40 40 20 20
CR 40 40 20 20
RTFI N/A 40 N/A 20
UT 40 40 20 20
UTT 40 40 20 20
MT 40 40 20 20
PT 40 40 20 20
VT 40 40 20 20

General (Written) Specific (Written)

NDT Method
ET 40 40 20 20
MFLT N/A 20 N/A 20
AE 40 40 20 20
AE Valve Leakage N/A 20 N/A 20
IR 40 40 20 20
ToFD N/A 40 N/A 30
PAUT N/A 40 N/A 30
CM N/A 40 N/A 20
SWC N/A 40 N/A 20
10.4 Practical Examination for NDT Level I
10.4.1 A practical examination, approved by the Saudi Aramco NDT Certifying

Authority or his designate, shall be administered to each Level I
candidate.
10.4.2 The candidate shall demonstrate proficiency using the applicable NDT
method and technique to examine at least one test sample for each
technique to be used in the candidate's job.
10.4.3 A checklist containing sufficient checkpoints demonstrating an

understanding of test variables and Saudi Aramco NDT procedural
requirements shall be included in this practical examination.
10.5 Practical Examination for NDT Level II
10.5.1 A practical examination, approved by the Saudi Aramco NDT Certifying

Authority or his designate, shall be administered to each Level II
candidate.
10.5.2 The candidate shall demonstrate proficiency using the applicable

NDT method and/or technique to examine at least one test sample per
technique and a minimum of two samples per method and by
interpreting, evaluating, and documenting the results of the examination.

The test samples shall be representative of the products that the

candidate will encounter in performing the job functions.
Note:
For RTFI examinations, the candidate shall demonstrate proficiency by

evaluating at least 24 films.
10.5.3 A checklist containing sufficient checkpoints demonstrating an

understanding of test variables and Saudi Aramco NDT procedural
requirements shall be included in this practical examination.
10.6 NDT Level III Examinations
10.6.1 Prior to Saudi Aramco certification examinations, the Level III candidate
shall hold a Level III Certificate with a currently valid endorsement for
each method for which certification is sought.
10.6.2 Saudi Aramco, with approval of Saudi Aramco NDT Certifying Authority,
has the right to request NDT Level III certificate holders to set and pass
an examination for which certification is sought. The certification
examination(s) shall be in accordance with an international standard.
10.7 Administration and Grading of Examinations
10.7.1 An NDT Level III shall be responsible for the administration and grading
of examinations for NDT Level I and II personnel for those methods in
which the NDT Level III has a valid Level III certificate. The
administration and grading of multiple choice questions may be
delegated by the NDT Level III in writing. For the practical examination,
the individual administering the examination must be an NDT Level III in
the respective test method; or somebody designated by NDT level III in
the respective test method.
10.7.2 When an examination is administered for qualification, each candidate

shall achieve a grade of at least 70% on each written examination,
whereas for practical examinations, each candidate shall achieve a
grade of at least 80%. A composite average grade of 80% is required to
be eligible for certification. All certification examinations shall have equal
weight in determining the average grade.
10.7.3 All portions of a certification examination, i.e., general, specific, and

practical shall be completed within six months.

Note:
Whenever possible, the examination request can be initiated through Saudi

Aramco approved communication applications.
10.8 Reexamination
10.8.1 Candidates that fail to attain the required passing grades must
receive additional documented training or wait at least 30 days for
re-examination. The additional training shall address the deficiencies
which caused the failure. A candidate shall not be reexamined using the
examination and/or specimen previously failed.
10.8.2 Candidates will be permitted three attempts to obtain certification for

each NDT method. After three failed attempts a candidate shall wait 12
months from the date of the last failed examination and provide evidence
of additional training hours in the method, before retaking the
examination.
10.8.3 Candidates may re-sit the failed portion(s) only, i.e., general, specific or
practical of an NDT certification examination provided that the score of
the failed portion(s) is 60% or higher.
Note:
Whenever possible, the examination request can be initiated through Saudi

Aramco approved communication applications.
11. Qualification & Certification Records
11.1 The CNDT&PS Unit of Saudi Aramco Inspection Department shall be responsible
for the administration and documentation of the Personnel Qualification and
Certification Program in accordance with the policies established by the Saudi
Aramco NDT Certifying Authority with concurrence by the Inspection Department
Manager. Personnel qualification and certification records shall be stored in
Saudi Aramco approved applications.
11.2 The NDT records of the certified NDT individuals shall include the following:
11.2.1 Name and Saudi Aramco ID # of certified individual;
11.2.2 Level of certification and NDT method including the techniques covered;
11.2.3 Educational background and documented history of training identifying

the NDT training received, the organization providing the training, dates
of training, hours of training, evidence of satisfactory completion of
training;

11.2.4 Current experience showing continuing activity in the method(s) for

which the candidate is certified;
11.2.5 Previous experience when necessary to verify initial certification;
11.2.6 Results of the vision examination;
11.2.7 Results of all, and copies of the most recent examination taken;
11.2.8 Dates of certification and/or recertification and expiration;
11.2.9 Signature of the Saudi Aramco Head NDT Level III, or designated NDT
Level III.
Document History
29 August 2016 Revised the "Next Planned Update." Reaffirmed the content of the document,
and reissued with the following minor revisions:
Document title change Qualification and Certification of Saudi Aramco NDT
Personnel.
Align and incorporate changes from international standards (ANSI/ASNT CP-
189, ISO).
Add qualification/certification for new NDT methods.
Recognize AWS and CSWIP certification equivalent to Saudi Aramco Visual
Testing Level II.
9 July 2019 Editorial revision to extend the “Next Planned Update” to 29 August 2021 and
revised “Conflicts and Deviations” to be in line with the Technical Deviation
Approvals of SAEP-302.
04 October 2021 Major Revision. Procedure is revised to align with the 2020 revision of
ANSI/ASNT CP-189

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Engineering Procedure 04 October 2021

Previous Revision: 9 July 2019 Next Revision: 04 October 2026

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

2 Conflicts and Deviations .......................................................................................... 9

6. Levels of Qualifications ......................................................................................... 12

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2021 Page 2 of 25

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

10.6 NDT Level III Examinations ............................................................................. 23

Document History ........................................................................................................ 25

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2021 Page 3 of 25

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

ISO/TS 25107: 2019

ANSI/ASNT CP-105: 2020

3.2 3.2 Modification Topical Outlines for Qualification

ANSI/ASNT CP-189: 2020

An organized and documented

Actual performance of an NDT

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2021 Page 4 of 25

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

NDT Level III

5.1.1.1 Film Radiography (RT)

5.1.1.2 Digital Radiography (DR)

The word “Calibration” is replaced

The word “Calibration” is replaced

The NDT Level III shall have

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2021 Page 5 of 25

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

An NDT Instructor shall have the

Training Hours for DR & CR are

All training shall be presented by

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2021 Page 6 of 25

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

Expereience Requirements for

Table 2 Table 2 Addition Experience Requirements for UT,

Saudi Aramco NDT Certifying

Saudi Aramco NDT Standards

The NDT Section of Inspection

An NDT Level I or II certificate

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2021 Page 7 of 25

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

Number of Questions for DR and

Whenever possible, the

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2021 Page 8 of 25

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

1.1 This Engineering Procedure establishes the requirements for qualification

2 Conflicts and Deviations

All referenced specifications, standards, codes, drawings, and similar material

3.1 Saudi Aramco References

Saudi Aramco Engineering Procedures

SAEP-302 Waiver of a Mandatory Saudi Aramco Engineering

3.2 Industry Codes and Standards

International Organization for Standardization (ISO)

ISO 9712: 2012 Nondestructive Testing – Qualification and Certification of

ISO/TR 25107: 2006 Nondestructive Testing – Guidelines for NDT Training

ISO/TS 25107: 2019 Nondestructive Testing – NDT Training Syllabuses

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2021 Page 9 of 25

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

American National Standards Institute / American Society for Nondestructive

ANSI/ASNT CP-105: 2020