DGXL,
We don't have the bridge certification, just the complex bldg. However, required or not for us, I watch all my qualification tests from the time the first arc is struck until the thing is capped off. I wasn't sure if it was necessary or not, just wanted to keep up with what was going on with the coupon as it was being filled up. You don't have to watch very long to figure out if it's the welder's first rodeo or not, know what I mean?
Gotta run, take care!
John Wright