BINDT spotlights latest advances in certification and e-learning

AS NON-DESTRUCTIVE testing (NDT), condition monitoring and other quality testing disciplines evolve, so too must the personnel certification and training that underpins them.

In 2022, BS EN ISO 9712, the standard specifying requirements for the qualification and certification of personnel performing NDT, was updated in response to a demand from industry. Key changes included the implementation of new NDT technologies, clarification of responsibilities, revision of requirements for training and examination procedures and structured credit systems for renewal and recertification.

In response to the revised standard, the British Institute of Non-Destructive Testing (BINDT) adapted its Personnel Certification in Non-Destructive Testing (PCN) Scheme and developed PCN24 to reflect the changes and meet the new, more stringent requirements. In addition, a Product Technology online training course has been launched, designed to help PCN candidates achieve the required materials and processes knowledge prior to undertaking formal training in any technique, as required by BS EN ISO 9712:2022.

The PCN24 certification scheme

The PCN Scheme is an internationally recognised, accredited programme operated by BINDT for qualifying and certifying the personnel responsible for conducting and overseeing NDT and CM inspections. Certification is given for the traditional NDT methods (for example radiography, ultrasonic, magnetic particle and liquid penetrant testing) and has been extended to cover CM methods such as acoustic emission, infrared thermography, lubrication analysis and vibration analysis. 

The scheme, which has been in existence since 1984, is owned and operated by BINDT and is accredited by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) to provide independent evidence that PCN satisfies the requirements of relevant British, European and international standards. BINDT and PCN are also audited by UKAS to ensure compliance to ISO 17024: Conformity assessment - General requirements for bodies operating certification of persons.

In 2024, following a thorough review and restructuring of existing PCN documentation to align with the revised BS EN ISO 9712:2022 standard, the PCN24 certification scheme was introduced. This modern and transparent suite of certification documents is designed to give employers, end users and those aspiring to become PCN certificate holders the information and confidence they need.

A robust and auditable process

End users can be assured that the PCN24 certification scheme has been developed through a robust and auditable process. Applicants can also take comfort in knowing that the Institute’s technically competent and experienced personnel make certification decisions solely based on the application information provided. 

BINDT manages the certification scheme but outsources the pre-examination training to Accredited Training Organisations (ATOs) and the conduct of PCN examinations to Authorised Qualifying Bodies (AQBs). Both ATOs and AQBs are vigorously audited by BINDT on a continual basis. BINDT has overall control over the certification process, which it operates and enforces to a high standard for both training and examinations.

The PCN24 Scheme documentation is available for free to download from the BINDT website at: www.bindt.org/Certification/PCN24download

Product Technology online training

In 2025, BINDT launched a new interactive Product Technology online training course, which has been designed specifically to help PCN candidates gain the required knowledge of materials and processes prior to undertaking formal PCN training, a requirement of the revised ISO 9712 standard, in order to supplement their knowledge of the specific methods and techniques to which they are seeking certification. 

The online training course includes learning modules covering industrial materials, manufacturing processes and an introduction to NDT, with material presented in a clear and concise format. Course content is organised in a logical manner, starting with how metals are created, through the processing of the raw materials to form components and the NDT methods and applications used to inspect them.

Interactive component enhances engagement

Interactive reading material requires candidate interaction both during the online training element and throughout the course assessments, featuring the use of traditional multiple choice-type questions and other questions that require candidates to select the most appropriate images and place them alongside the relevant text. Progress is automatically saved as candidates progress through the modules, meaning the course can be taken at the user’s pace.

The interactive element within each individual learning module has been carefully designed to make learning stimulating and enjoyable and to ensure that the candidate retains the required information through assessment at the end of each section.

The training module requires aspirant PCN candidates to successfully complete each individual section before demonstrating their knowledge in an end-of-course assessment, confirming their understanding of materials science and processes and the associated discontinuities that an NDT operative might encounter when deploying NDT within an industry and/or product sector.

A digital Product Technology certificate will be issued following successful completion of the online training and achieving a pass in the end-of-course assessment.

Available worldwide, the course is mandatory for all new PCN entrants and is also recommended as an efficient and enjoyable way for anyone simply wishing to refresh their knowledge of materials and processes. 

For more information: 

www.bindt.org

Tel: +44 (0)1604 438300