An ATB, Approved Training Body, is a training entity which has been assessed by an ANB, Authorised Nominated Body, such as SAIW, to offer IIW, International Institute of Welding training programs. All approved ATB’s are certified for a period of five years.

There are a few ATBs in South Africa and each one has an approved scope i.e. course it is approved to give training on. The ATB only provides training and the examinations are provided by SAIW except for the practical welding examinations.

IIW Approved Training Body

SAIW is accredited by IIW to offer approval for the following courses:

• IWE
• IWT
• IWS
• IWP
• IW
• IWI

Upon completion of the training and examinations, which must fulfill IIW requirements, the successful students are issued with IIW qualifications. The students must be registered with SAIW so as to maintain a national database of those who completed the training.

NDT Approved Training Body

ISO 9712 allows for the establishment of training bodies specialised in NDT training. These training bodies must be approved as per ISO 9712 and ISO/TS 25108. The approval means that the training body can then apply to a Personnel Certification Body (PCB) for the learners to sit the NDT examinations. Once the students are successful, they can, upon acquisition of the relevant experience and hours, apply for certification with the PCB.

In order to become an approved training body an entity must be legally registered to start with, and it must apply for approval with the PCB. The training body must meet a few requirements as per ISO 25108. In a nutshell these requirements are that there must be a person who is responsible for the management of the training body. There must also be qualified and certified lecturers in the methods which the training body wants to facilitate. There must also be a documented quality management system to be used for ensuring effective delivery of the training. Students must be informed prior to the course commencement of all information and conditions necessary for course attendance e.g. entry requirements, training fees, course dates, PPE etc. The training body must also have course notes for the subjects taught. Facilities must also be available for theory sessions and practical sessions. The facilities must be well lit, well-ventilated and must have adequate space for learners and instructors. Training specimens which align with the methods and sectors which training is being provided for must be available in sufficient quantities. NDT equipment is also required and just as with specimens it must also be appropriate for the method and sector being taught. Training bodies must also retain and handle student information in a professional manner they must also uphold confidentiality.

To apply to be an ATB and all documentation related to ATB’s should be directed to email iso3834@saiw.co.za or by phone at 011 298 2109.