Training programs and certification

Many organizations that conduct formal in-house self-monitoring thermography programs conduct training for the thermographers they employ, often providing 

A Level I infrared thermographer shall be qualified to perform specific IR inspections in accordance with detailed written instructions and to record the results, and shallperform inspections under the cognizance of a LevelIIor Level III The Level I shall not independently perform nor evaluate inspection results for acceptance or rejection when such inspection results are for the purpose of verifying compliance to code or regulatory requirements. 

A Level II infrared thermographer shall be qualified to set up and calibrate equipment, conduct inspections, and to interpret inspection results in concordance with procedure requirements. The individual shall be familiar with the limitations and scope of the method employed and shall have the ability to apply techniques over a broad range ofapplications within the limits of their certification. The Level II shall be able to organize and report inspection results. A Level II must have the ability to correctly identify components and parts of components within the scope of the IR inspection. 

The training requirements for each level of IR thermographer qualification parallel those for the other traditional NDE methods in that on-the-job training, educational background, and classroom work all count toward qualification. 

There are qualification examinations and annual requalification requirements in all levels. It is up to the training organization and individual employers to implement the appropriate recommendations of the training program. 

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