New to NDT?

If you are new to non-destructive testing (NDT), your first level of training is an introduction to NDT. You will need to complete the full training course and examination, as well as gain relevant NDT experience to obtain your qualification.

Array Training has several NDT methods that you can train in. Some of the most sought-after methods include:

• Magnetic Particle Inspection (MT)

• Liquid Penetrant Inspection (PT)

We offer two NDT qualification schemes available, PCN and SNT.

PCN Qualification

This certification is awarded by the British Institute of Non-Destructive Testing (BINDT) and is recognised industry wide. This scheme is suitable for all students and be booked through your employer or directly through us as a self-sponsor.

SNT Qualification

This is a company-specific qualification scheme and your certification is awarded by your employers once you have successfully completed your NDT training and/or exam. This is suitable for all students but must be booked directly through your employer.

Understanding our terminology

Every test centre uses its own variation of examination, retesting, recertification, and re-examination. If you’ve not attended training with us or you’re looking for a refresher, then here’s a guide to selecting the right option for you.

What is an ‘initial examination’?

Initial examinations are usually carried out at the end of a full NDT Initial Training Course.

You may also need to book onto an initial examination if your NDT certification has passed its expiry date. SNT and PCN have different rules on this and you’ll be required to take an initial examination if your:

• SNT certification expired over 6 months ago; or

• PCN certification expired over 10 months ago

You are also required to sit an initial examination if you were too late to apply for or declined a BINDT deferral letter, or you have attempted all the retest requirements. If you are unsure, get in touch with us through the contact form.

What is a retest?

A retest is for students who have failed an examination. After your initial exam, you have 12 months to sit your retest. If you have failed your recertification, you only have 6 months to retest.

For those people who would like to book their retest within 30 days of the failed exam, there will be an additional 4 hours of refresher training required. This is to ensure you have taken the time to connect with the coursework and understand the areas you answered incorrectly.

What is recertification?

After you have qualified, your SNT or PCN certification will be valid for 5 years.

• SNT certification holders will need to recertify their NDT certification within 6 months of the expiry date. The recertification examination will be in accordance with your employers Company’s Written Practise (CWP) document and NDT procedures/industry standards.

• PCN certification holders will need to recertify their NDT certification within 6 months of the expiry date, no later than 6 weeks prior to expiry.

If you fail to sit your PCN recertification examination within this period then you will be required to apply for a BINDT deferral letter using the PSL28 Application. This may extend the time you have to sit the recertification examination but DOES NOT extend PCN certificate.

Below is a link to the deferral letter application. If required, this should be completed and sent through to BINDT directly which must include payment details. The process can take up to 2 weeks and you must apply for it within 10 months of your certification expiry date.

• PSL28 Application

• PCN Costs

SNT Qualified and moving companies?

If you have a valid SNT certification and you are looking to transfer over to another employer, then you will be required to sit a re-examination. This examination ensures that you are able to work in accordance with your new employer’s working practices and NDT procedures.