ICTQual AB Level 4 Diploma in QA/QC Piping & Welding Inspector
The ICTQual AB Level 4 Diploma in QA/QC Piping & Welding Inspector is an advanced qualification developed to enhance professional expertise in the inspection, supervision, and quality management of piping and welding systems. This diploma is tailored for experienced learners who are ready to move into senior QA/QC roles within engineering, construction, oil and gas, and industrial manufacturing sectors.
Learners will explore key areas such as quality management systems (ISO 9001), welding procedure specifications (WPS), fabrication control, advanced non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques, and vendor audit processes. Emphasis is placed on risk-based QA planning, supplier qualification, and team leadership within project environments. This ensures that learners not only understand how to conduct inspections but also how to manage teams, align quality with project objectives, and maintain regulatory compliance.
Ideal for piping inspectors, welding technicians, QA/QC supervisors, and engineers aiming to step into more strategic positions, this course builds the skills needed to lead inspection processes, enforce standards, and drive continuous improvement.
The ICTQual AB Level 4 Diploma prepares learners to oversee high-value projects, supervise inspection teams, and apply advanced QA/QC methodologies to ensure long-term safety, performance, and quality across complex industrial systems.
Level 4 Diploma in QA/QC Piping & Welding Inspector
To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 4 Diploma in QA/QC Piping & Welding Inspector, learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 4 Diploma in QA/QC Piping & Welding Inspector, consists of 6 mandatory units.
- Quality Management Systems (ISO 9001) & Lean QA Strategies
- Welding Procedure Specifications & Fabrication Controls
- Advanced Inspection Technologies: Phased Array UT & Radiography
- Risk‑Based QA/QC Planning & Inspection Implementation
- Supplier Qualification & Vendor Audit for Welding Procurement
- Leadership & Team Management in Inspection Projects
Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:
Quality Management Systems (ISO 9001) & Lean QA Strategies
By the end of this unit, the learner will be able to:
- Understand and apply the principles of ISO 9001 in engineering quality systems
- Implement lean QA strategies to improve process efficiency and reduce waste
- Develop quality policies, procedures, and manuals for piping and welding operations
- Evaluate the effectiveness of a QMS through internal audits and performance metrics
- Support compliance, traceability, and continuous improvement within inspection processes
Welding Procedure Specifications & Fabrication Controls
By the end of this unit, the learner will be able to:
- Interpret and validate Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS) and Procedure Qualification Records (PQR)
- Monitor welding processes to ensure compliance with specifications and codes
- Inspect fabrication activities and control variables such as preheat, interpass temperature, and electrode selection
- Identify welding defects and recommend corrective actions
- Coordinate with welding supervisors to uphold fabrication quality standards
Advanced Inspection Technologies: Phased Array UT & Radiography
By the end of this unit, the learner will be able to:
- Understand the principles and advantages of Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT) and Digital Radiography (DR)
- Apply advanced inspection techniques in accordance with international standards
- Interpret inspection results and assess weld integrity using PAUT and radiographic images
- Operate or assist in setting up advanced NDT equipment for complex inspections
- Ensure data accuracy, defect classification, and proper reporting of findings
Risk-Based QA/QC Planning & Inspection Implementation
By the end of this unit, the learner will be able to:
- Develop risk-based inspection plans (RBIs) tailored to project conditions and material risk
- Prioritise inspection activities based on criticality, safety, and regulatory requirements
- Monitor inspection implementation and evaluate effectiveness against risk mitigation objectives
- Align QA/QC strategies with project delivery milestones and stakeholder expectations
- Identify inspection gaps and propose improvement initiatives to reduce future risks
Supplier Qualification & Vendor Audit for Welding Procurement
By the end of this unit, the learner will be able to:
- Evaluate and qualify suppliers based on compliance, capability, and welding standards
- Conduct vendor audits using standard checklists and procurement specifications
- Monitor supplier performance and initiate corrective actions when necessary
- Ensure quality and traceability in purchased welding materials and fabrication services
- Collaborate with procurement and QA/QC teams to optimise supplier relationships and compliance
Leadership & Team Management in Inspection Projects
By the end of this unit, the learner will be able to:
- Lead inspection teams in line with project quality plans and industry standards
- Assign responsibilities and oversee daily QA/QC activities on-site
- Resolve conflicts and maintain communication among inspection and engineering teams
- Motivate team members to adhere to quality objectives and project timelines
- Foster a quality-driven culture and support continuous professional development within teams
The ICTQual AB Level 4 Diploma in QA/QC Piping & Welding Inspection is a highly respected qualification that prepares learners to lead quality operations and supervise inspection teams in complex industrial projects. Upon successful completion, learners are well-positioned to advance both academically and professionally in the QA/QC and engineering sectors.
Academic Progression
- Progress to Level 5 and Higher Diplomas
Learners can seamlessly transition to the ICTQual AB Level 5 Diploma, which introduces lean inspection systems, high-pressure piping inspections, corrosion control, and strategic quality governance. Further progression is available up to Level 7, empowering learners to achieve master-level expertise and enter consultancy, auditing, or senior project management roles. - Specialised Professional Certifications
Learners may also pursue additional international certifications such as:- Certified Welding Inspector (CWI or CSWIP)
- NDT Level II/III in UT, RT, or PAUT
- ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor
- Asset Integrity and Reliability Engineering Courses
Career Development Opportunities
- Advanced Industry Roles
Graduates of this diploma are equipped to take on roles such as:- QA/QC Supervisor
- Senior Welding or Piping Inspector
- Project QA Coordinator
- Vendor Quality Auditor
- Fabrication Quality Lead
- Cross-Sector Relevance
The competencies gained are applicable in key industries including:- Oil and gas
- Petrochemical plants
- Construction and infrastructure
- Marine and shipbuilding
- Industrial fabrication and manufacturing
Leadership Growth and Global Readiness
- Site and Project Leadership Preparation
Learners are prepared to lead inspection teams, manage documentation, oversee fabrication processes, and ensure compliance with international codes and project specifications. - Pathway to Global Opportunities
With this internationally aligned diploma, learners gain the qualifications needed to work on large-scale, cross-border engineering projects as trusted QA/QC professionals and team leaders.