If a fabrication facility is AISC certified, the fabricator must provide “objective evidence” that the period of effectiveness has not been exceeded, as indicated in the AISC Building Standard Audit Guide. In my experience, this “objective evidence” has always been the welder continuity log, which they ask to see when Element 12 is audited….
12. Fabrication Process Control
The Fabricator shall develop Documented Procedures for process control necessary to produce a consistent acceptable level of quality of the furnished product in accordance with the applicable codes or specifications. Fabrication processes include: thermal and mechanical cutting, fitting and assembly, welding, drilling, bolting, milling, and coating. The Fabricator will include additional “special Procedures” that cover fabrication processes done at the facility (e.g., cambering).
Regardless if these processes are routinely performed at the facility, effective implementation of the following Documented Procedures are required as a minimum:
12.1 Welding
The Fabricator’s welding Procedure shall include:
WPS's
Preheat requirements
PQR's
Welder, welding operator, and tack welder Qualifications and Qualification Test Records
Welder, welding operator, and tack welder performance records - to provide Objective Evidence that the “period of effectiveness” has not been exceeded for welder, welding operator, and tack welder qualifications