Section 5: Qualification Procedure
To qualify, an individual must successfully perform the specific test and the necessary calculations required to determine specification compliance in the presence of an authorized evaluator. Successful performance is defined as demonstrating the ability to properly perform the key elements for each test method. If the individual fails to demonstrate the ability to perform a test, the individual will be allowed one retest per test method at the evaluator’s convenience.
After successful performance of a test method, the individual must also pass a written examination (minimum score of 80%) administered by an authorized evaluator. An individual failing the written examination may request a retest. The retest must be scheduled and administered within thirty days of notification of failure. Failure to pass the second written examination shall be considered as failing the entire qualification.
If an individual fails to qualify on a specific test method or the qualification is revoked, the individual must obtain additional training before the individual can retest on that specific test.
In addition, for tests that CST/M&P determines to require a split/proficiency sample evaluation, the individual must participate in split/proficiency samples given by the qualification authority to validate the qualification. CST/M&P determines the qualification authority for the split/proficiency sample. The results of the samples will be evaluated with acceptable tolerance limits. If the comparisons of the test results do not comply with the tolerances, an engineering review of the test procedures and equipment will be performed immediately to determine the source of the discrepancy. Corrective actions must be identified and incorporated as appropriate, prior to the individual performing additional testing on that test method.
Under unique circumstances, the qualification authority may grant a verbal examination upon request. The reason(s) for requesting a verbal examination must be presented and documented prior to the individual being allowed to take the examination.
Unless otherwise stated, qualification of an individual is valid for not more than three years, after which the individual must be re-qualified. Under the Independent Assurance (IA) system approach, interim evaluations will be required as specified in "Frequency of System Approach Independent Assurance Testing."