Yes, NY state allows the plate to be ground flush.(this helps with the x-ray). Run off strips are not allowed. The point of the test is to see if you can get an x ray quality weld in a 5" joint. Only 3 consecutive inches are used.
The reason, the welder failed the visual.... It was obvious it wouldn't pass the radiograph. Generally, the inspector in the field will submit only the paperwork on a plate that has failed its visual.