Can the Canadian Welding Bureau require a welder to be check tested before qualifications expire?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only if the employer requests
• D. Only for certain processes

Answer: (A)

The welder’s certification is supported by ongoing oversight, and the authority to ensure that certified welders still meet the required standards remains with the Canadian Welding Bureau. Because certifications are not meant to be a one-off event, the CWB can require a check test before the existing qualifications expire to verify the welder can still produce welds that meet the same process, position, material, and thickness criteria as when they were originally qualified. This helps catch declines in performance early and maintains welding quality and safety on the job. It isn’t limited to employer requests, and it isn’t restricted to only certain processes—the bureau can mandate a check test as needed to maintain certification validity. If the welder passes, the qualification stays valid until its expiry; if not, recertification may be required.