10 Most Common NDT Procedure Non-Compliances (and How to Fix Them)

The problem: The most common — and most serious — non-compliance. A procedure that states "rejectable indications shall not be permitted" without referencing a specific code clause and paragraph is not compliant.

The problem: Procedures often reference examination requirements but fail to state the minimum certification level required for personnel performing the examination. This is a T-150 (ASME) and SNT-TC-1A requirement.

The problem: For Liquid Penetrant, ASME Section V T-672 requires both minimum and maximum dwell times. Procedures stating only "minimum 10 minutes penetrant dwell" without a maximum are non-compliant.

The problem: ASME T-522 and most client specifications require a minimum 10% index overlap between adjacent scan passes. Many UT procedures specify scan direction and coverage but omit the numerical overlap requirement.

The problem: Procedures specify calibration references but fail to state how often calibration must be verified during examination. ASME and most codes require calibration checks at the start, during, and at the end of the examination.

The problem: Procedures state "calibrate using ASME basic calibration block" but do not describe the block dimensions, material, reflector sizes, or drawing reference. The calibration block must be fully described or referenced by a controlled drawing.

The problem: Radiographic procedures often specify an IQI type and placement but do not show the selection basis — IQI material should match the base material, and the required sensitivity (essential wire or hole) must be stated.

The problem: Fluorescent MT and PT procedures require minimum UV-A intensity (black light). Most procedures omit the minimum required intensity at the examination surface (1,000 μW/cm² per ASME) and the maximum allowable ambient white light (2 foot-candles).

The problem: Companies operating under SNT-TC-1A are required to have a Written Practice. Procedures reference "the company written practice" by name but no document number or revision is cited — and in many cases, no such document exists.

The problem: ASME T-180 requires examination records to include specific minimum content. Many procedures omit the required documentation list or reference only "an examination report shall be completed" without specifying content.