Is a welder with an ASW classification using the SMAW process also qualified for welding steel decking with the GMAW process?

• A. No, separate qualification is required.
• B. Yes.
• C. Only when the decking is thick.
• D. Only if shielding gas is used.

Answer: (A)

Welder qualifications are tied to the specific welding process being used. A person qualified for SMAW under the ASW classification has demonstrated the ability to weld with shielded metal arc welding, but that qualification does not automatically cover another process like GMAW.

Welding with GMAW involves different arc characteristics, technique, equipment setup, shielding gas management, and sometimes different filler metals. To weld steel decking with the GMAW process, the welder must be tested and qualified for GMAW on the same base metal and thickness, unless they already hold a valid multi-process qualification that explicitly includes GMAW.

So, separate qualification is required because the certification is process-specific, ensuring the welder can produce acceptable welds using each intended method.