WHAT IS THE SNT-TC-1A RECOMMENDED PRACTICE?
In the 1950s, with increasing complexity and number of NDT methods in use, industry was not able to recruit enough personnel to meet their needs. Many customers found that they were not receiving the NDT inspections they felt they had paid to receive.
Large segments of the economy, such as government and prime contractors, found it expedient to put the responsibility for the training and qualification of personnel upon manufacturers, leading to many different governing documents in use, which were sometimes conflicting.
SNT-TC-1A was first published in 1966 by the American Society for Nondestructive Testing, to create a document which contained the average of requirements to certify NDT inspectors, with the final certification responsibility placed on the employer.
To this day, it serves as a guide for employers in preparing their specific personnel qualification and certification program.
WHY USE SNT-TC-1A?
SNT-TC-1A offers an employer-driven certification model with customizable training, experience, and examination requirements, enabling cost savings and adaptability to specific industry needs.
In contrast, CGSB provides a standardized, centralized system with portable credentials, but it involves higher fees, less flexibility, and stricter external oversight.
Organizations choose SNT-TC-1A when prioritizing internal control and tailored programs over broad portability and regulatory uniformity.
Hybrid programs integrating elements of both SNT-TC-1A and CGSB are common, allowing for combined flexibility and compliance with standards such as those in Canada.
THREE LEAF'S ROLE
Three Leaf NDT manages SNT-TC-1A certification programs end-to-end, from setup to maintenance.
This includes complete administrative oversight with:
- tailored written practices compliant with ASNT guidelines;
- audit-ready record-keeping for qualifications, training, experience, and certifications;
- customized curricula for NDT methods through classroom, practical, and hands-on training; and
- in-house examination design, administration, and grading for Levels 1, 2, and 3.
Benefits include reduced administrative load, faster certifications, enhanced proficiency, and compliance with industry standards.