Why an ISO 3834 certificate?
In the manufacture of metal products, such as steel structures, pressure equipment, machines, lifts, bridges and transport vehicles, welding is usually an indispensable way of joining. The quality of each individual welding activity cannot practically be checked every time, so it is better to set up a system that achieves quality consistently. By meeting the requirements of the EN ISO 3834 series this is possible, and with independent certification a company can also demonstrate it externally.
The certificate increases client confidence and, according to the standards and the scheme, gives the company a competitive advantage: savings in production and warranty periods, no need for external audits for supplier purposes, fewer complaints, and business opportunities at home and abroad. It is an international standard.
What is assessed?
In the initial assessment we evaluate the handling of contract requirements, subcontractors, personnel (welders, welding operators, welding coordinators and inspectors), equipment control (maintenance and calibration), planning of activities, qualification of welding procedures, control of materials, heat treatment, inspection (dimensional, NDT), control of nonconformities, identification and traceability, and records. We also hold a professional interview with the responsible welding coordinator.
Among other things the company must have a qualified welding coordinator to EN ISO 14731, certified welders or operators depending on the level, qualified welding procedures, NDT personnel certified to EN ISO 9712 and guaranteed traceability.
How does certification work?
- Request for quotation. on the basis of the completed request we prepare a quotation with an order form; an informative visit is possible.
- Assessment programme. after the order we send the programme and the names of the assessors; you can object within three days.
- Initial assessment. a review at the required quality level (3834-2, 3834-3 or 3834-4).
- Report and correction of nonconformities. you correct nonconformities within the agreed time, which is no longer than six months; you can comment on the report within eight days.
- Certificate and surveillance. we issue the certificate and conclude an agreement on maintaining certification; regular surveillance follows.