Atema

We were recently asked: Does AWS have a D1.8 Certification?

The codes can get pretty confusing, especially when certification enters the picture, so here’s the deal, care of Atema welding specialists.

Yes, D1.8 has a supplemental Welder Qualification Test. It’s for welders who are going to weld bottom flange to column joints when a weld access hole is involved in the design of the joint. In short, it is specifically for restricted access welding.

D1.8 is a supplement to AWS D1.1 Structural Steel Welding Code and must be used in conjunction with it. I can see an eager inspector making this connection easily and reasonably, but sometimes the contract language does not specifically call for D1.8 compliance. We have now been tech witness/consultants in a few cases and have seen engineers not specifying correctly for seismic requirements.

Make sure your guys in the field are trained and aware of how to work around protected zones (grinding, fitting, attachment welds, etc.) and how to perform demand critical welds.

P.S. Atema teaches a two-day custom class on it because there’s a lot to it. Click here if you’re interested in finding out more about Atema classes.

P.P.S. In case you were wondering, the AISC Seismic Provisions and AWS D1.8 are supposed to be merged soon. Keep your eyes peeled for updates