To ensure reliability and confidence in the delivery of the specialist inspection techniques, a dedicated Training Competency and Validation Centre has been set up using manufacturing and in-service components.
The validations follow a robust process with oversight (where necessary) by an Independent Verification Body furthering the confidence to asset owners in the delivery of the specialist inspection techniques.
As new technologies or new applications for existing technologies emerge, the inspection technique and operator competency require validating to ensure the aims of the inspection are delivered in line with expectations, and with upfront knowledge of detection capabilities prior to enactment.
The validation and competency centre will support enactment of inspection by:
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Assessing emerging and new technology against existing technology
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Provides subject matter experts for consultation and direction on appropriate inspection techniques for specific challenges and threat mechanisms
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Specific operator training and competency for routine and non-routine inspections with focus on data interpretation and analysis.
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Defining the detection capabilities for the inspection technique (i.e. smallest detectable defect)