ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Instrumental Quality Assurance and Quality Control QA/QC

The ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Instrumental Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC) is a specialised qualification designed to prepare learners for careers in industrial instrumentation, inspection, and compliance. This programme provides a solid foundation in quality assurance principles, inspection techniques, and international standards, ensuring graduates are equipped to meet the demands of industries such as oil and gas, power generation, construction, and manufacturing.

Learners will gain hands‑on knowledge of Inspection Test Plans (ITPs), checklists, and levels of inspection, enabling them to monitor and verify compliance at every stage of a project. The course also covers material receiving and preservation procedures, ensuring that equipment and components meet required specifications before installation.

A strong emphasis is placed on international codes and standards, including NEMA VE‑1/VE‑2 cable trays, NEC‑250 grounding, and conduit systems (RMS, FMT, RGS, IMT) in accordance with NEC Articles 344–400. Learners will also develop expertise in instrument tubing, junction boxes, and cabinets in line with NEMA standards, ensuring safe, reliable, and compliant installations.

The diploma further explores instrument elements such as pressure, flow, temperature, and level, referencing Aramco and international standards to ensure learners can apply QA/QC practices in globally recognised frameworks. In addition, participants will master loop checking, testing, and commissioning procedures, ensuring that systems are fully functional, safe, and compliant before handover.

By completing this diploma, learners will be able to implement QA/QC procedures across all stages of instrumentation projects, apply international standards with confidence, and contribute to the safety, reliability, and efficiency of industrial operations. This qualification is ideal for individuals seeking to begin or advance their careers in instrumentation QA/QC, inspection engineering, and industrial project compliance, offering both local and international opportunities.

Course overview

Level 3 Diploma in Instrumental Quality Assurance and Quality Control QA/QC

To enrol in Level 3 Diploma in Instrumental Quality Assurance and Quality Control QA/QC, learner must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Age Requirement: Learners must typically be 18 years of age or older at the time of enrolment. This ensures learners have the maturity to handle technical and compliance‑related training.
  • Educational Background: A secondary school qualification (Matric/High School or equivalent) is usually required.Learners without formal qualifications may still be considered if they can demonstrate relevant work experience.
  • Professional Experience: The diploma is accessible to fresh learners.Prior exposure to construction, instrumentation, or industrial QA/QC roles can help learners grasp concepts more quickly.
  • English Proficiency: Since the course is delivered in English, learners should demonstrate basic competence in reading, writing, and communication.International learners may be asked to provide evidence of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent).
  • Numeracy and IT Skills: Learners should have basic numeracy skills for calculations related to inspection, testing, and standards.Basic IT literacy is required for handling documentation, checklists, and reporting.
  • Additional Requirements: Some training providers may conduct an entry assessment or interview to evaluate suitability.Learners should be prepared for practical, hands‑on training in inspection, loop checking, and commissioning.

This qualification, the Level 3 Diploma in Instrumental Quality Assurance and Quality Control QA/QC, consists of 6 mandatory units.

  1. Principles of Instrumental Quality Assurance and Inspection
  2. Material Receiving, Handling, and Preservation
  3. International Codes and Standards for Instrumentation
  4. Instrument Tubing and Installation Practices
  5. Instrument Elements and Process Variables
  6. Loop Checking, Testing, and Commissioning

Learning Outcomes for the Level 3 Diploma in Instrumental Quality Assurance and Quality Control QA/QC:

Principles of Instrumental Quality Assurance and Inspection

  • Explain the fundamental concepts of Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) in instrumentation.
  • Develop and interpret Inspection Test Plans (ITPs) for instrumentation projects.
  • Use inspection checklists to verify compliance with project specifications.
  • Identify and apply different levels of inspection in industrial projects.
  • Maintain accurate QA/QC documentation and reporting records.
  • Recognise the importance of compliance with international standards in inspection activities.
  • Apply systematic inspection techniques to ensure quality and safety.
  • Demonstrate awareness of the inspector’s role in project success.

Material Receiving, Handling, and Preservation

  • Inspect incoming materials against purchase orders and specifications.
  • Verify material certificates and documentation for compliance.
  • Apply correct procedures for receiving and storing instrumentation materials.
  • Implement preservation techniques to protect sensitive equipment.
  • Identify non‑conforming materials and report appropriately.
  • Maintain traceability of materials throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Follow international best practices for safe handling and storage.
  • Ensure readiness of materials for installation and inspection.

International Codes and Standards for Instrumentation

  • Interpret and apply NEMA VE‑1/VE‑2 standards for cable trays.
  • Apply NEC‑250 grounding requirements in instrumentation projects.
  • Explain conduit system requirements (RMS, FMT, RGS, IMT) as per NEC Articles 344–400.
  • Identify compliance requirements for junction boxes and cabinets under NEMA standards.
  • Evaluate the importance of adhering to international codes in QA/QC.
  • Compare national and international standards for instrumentation installations.
  • Apply standards to ensure safety, reliability, and compliance.
  • Document inspections in line with NEC and NEMA requirements.

Instrument Tubing and Installation Practices

  • Select appropriate tubing materials for instrumentation applications.
  • Apply correct tubing layout, bending, and connection techniques.
  • Inspect tubing installations for leaks and compliance with standards.
  • Follow Aramco and international standards for tubing practices.
  • Identify common tubing faults and propose corrective actions.
  • Ensure proper support and routing of tubing systems.
  • Maintain documentation of tubing inspections and tests.
  • Apply safety practices during tubing installation and inspection.

Instrument Elements and Process Variables

  • Identify and describe instrument elements for pressure, flow, temperature, and level.
  • Inspect and verify installation of instrument elements against standards.
  • Apply Aramco and international QA/QC requirements to instrumentation.
  • Calibrate basic instrument elements to ensure accuracy.
  • Recognise the role of process variables in industrial operations.
  • Document inspection and calibration results accurately.
  • Troubleshoot common issues with instrument elements.
  • Ensure compliance with safety and operational standards.

Loop Checking, Testing, and Commissioning

  • Explain the purpose and process of loop checking in instrumentation systems.
  • Perform loop checks to verify continuity and functionality.
  • Document loop check results in accordance with QA/QC requirements.
  • Conduct pre‑commissioning tests on instrumentation systems.
  • Apply commissioning procedures to ensure system readiness.
  • Identify and resolve issues during testing and commissioning.
  • Ensure compliance with international standards during commissioning.
  • Contribute to safe handover of fully tested and commissioned systems.

The ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Instrumental Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC) provides learners with a strong foundation in inspection, compliance, and international standards. Upon completion, graduates can progress into a variety of professional, technical, and supervisory opportunities, as well as further vocational qualifications.

Academic and Vocational Progression

  • Progress to Level 4 and Level 5 Diplomas in Instrumentation, QA/QC, or Engineering Technology
  • Enrol in specialised vocational courses in industrial automation, process control, or safety management
  • Pursue short courses and certifications in inspection engineering, calibration, or commissioning
  • Gain qualifications in project quality management or construction QA/QC
  • Build a pathway towards Level 6 Diplomas in Industrial Instrumentation or related fields

Career Progression in Technical Roles

  • Work as a QA/QC Inspector in instrumentation projects
  • Take on roles as an Instrumentation Technician in oil, gas, or power industries
  • Progress into Calibration Technician or Testing and Commissioning Assistant roles
  • Support loop checking and inspection teams in large‑scale projects
  • Develop into a Material Receiving and Preservation Officer
  • Gain experience as a Junior Instrument Engineer under supervision
  • Transition into field inspection and compliance roles across industries

Supervisory and Team Roles

  • Progress into QA/QC Supervisor positions after gaining field experience
  • Lead small teams in inspection and commissioning activities
  • Take responsibility for documentation, reporting, and compliance tracking
  • Support senior engineers in project quality planning
  • Mentor new technicians in inspection and preservation practices
  • Coordinate with contractors and suppliers on material compliance
  • Assist in managing safety and quality audits

Professional Certifications and Industry Recognition

  • Obtain NEC and NEMA compliance training certificates
  • Gain OSHA or equivalent safety certifications
  • Pursue vendor‑specific training (e.g., Siemens, Schneider, Allen‑Bradley)
  • Achieve Certified Quality Technician (CQT) or equivalent recognition
  • Gain API or ASME inspection certifications relevant to instrumentation
  • Obtain functional safety and reliability certifications
  • Build a portfolio of internationally recognised QA/QC credentials

International Career Opportunities

  • Work in oil and gas projects in the Middle East and Asia
  • Join construction and power generation projects worldwide
  • Contribute to renewable energy instrumentation projects
  • Secure roles in multinational manufacturing and industrial hubs
  • Support infrastructure and smart city projects
  • Work with global engineering consultancies as a QA/QC technician
  • Explore opportunities in pharmaceutical and food processing industries

FAQs

This diploma is ideal for entry‑level learners, technicians, and junior engineers who want to build a career in QA/QC. It is also suitable for professionals already working in instrumentation who want to formalise their skills with an internationally recognised qualification.

Graduates can work as:

  • QA/QC Inspector
  • Instrumentation Technician
  • Calibration Technician
  • Testing and Commissioning Assistant
  • Material Receiving and Preservation Officer
  • Junior Instrument Engineer These roles are available in oil and gas, power generation, construction, and manufacturing sectors.

The ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Instrumental Quality Assurance and Quality Control QA/QC is a 30 Credit course designed to be completed in full-time study over this period, with a focus on both theoretical learning and practical application.

ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Instrumental Quality Assurance and Quality Control QA/QC is offered in various formats, including online, in-person, or a combination of both. Participants can choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences. But final decision is made by ATC.

Yes, ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Instrumental Quality Assurance and Quality Control QA/QC consist of 6 mandatory assessments. These assessments are designed to evaluate participants’ comprehension of course material and their capacity to apply concepts in practical situations. It is mandatory to pass all assessments to achieve this qualification.