Update to the GULT Qualification & Certification Scheme

Effective from 1 April 2026

To ensure full compliance with ISO 9712:2021 — Non‑destructive testing: Qualification and certification of NDT personnel, the GUL Training Qualification and Certification (GULT) Scheme has been updated.

Following a structured review, these changes strengthen consistency, transparency, and technical robustness across all certification activities.

GULT Qualification and Certification Scheme (PDF)

Summary of Key Changes

1. Industrial Experience Requirements (Prior to Certification)

Minimum industrial experience required for validation has been revised and extended in line with ISO 9712:2021.

For validation purposes, the minimum industrial experience requirements are now 45 days for Level 1 and 90 days for Level 2.
Industrial experience must be attested by the employer or, for self‑employed candidates, by an appropriate referee.
Where permitted, reductions may apply when working under the direct supervision of a GULT Level 2 or Level 3, and/or where verifiable certification in another NDT method is provided.

2. Qualification Examinations

Qualification examinations have been updated to include an increased number of questions and extended time allocation, providing a more comprehensive assessment of both technical knowledge and practical understanding.

3. Certification Validity

The certification validity period has been extended to five (5) years, replacing the previous three‑year cycle, in accordance with ISO 9712:2021.

4. Certificate Renewal (All Levels)

Renewal of certification now also requires:

Verified log sheets demonstrating continued relevant practice.
Either:
- Compliance with a structured credit system, or
- Successful completion of a renewal examination.

5. Recertification

Following the second period of validity, recertification is mandatory and requires:

Fulfilment of the renewal requirements, and
Successful completion of the relevant recertification examination

Specific experience requirements and evidence for renewal and recertification are formally communicated prior to certificate expiry.

IMPORTANT: Responsibility for applying for renewal rests with the certificate holder.

Application of the Updated Scheme

Notes related to the release of the new scheme:

Existing certifications: All currently valid certifications remain recognised and fully supported
Renewals / Recertification: All certification renewals from 1 April 2026 onward will be assessed under the updated scheme
Renewal and Recertification Letter: The specific requirements for experience and evidence to be submitted for Renewal or Recertification are formally communicated in the GULT Renewal and Recertification Letter, sent to inspectors prior to the expiry of their certificate.
- The letter is available upon request.
- It is the responsibility of the certificate holder to apply for certificate renewal prior to the expiry of the certificate.
Validation: Revised validation requirements apply to candidates seeking validation from 1 April 2026 onwards.
Validation Letter: The specific experience requirements and evidence to be submitted are formally communicated in GULT Validation Letter and linked forms, issued after successful completion of the training course and passing the qualification examinations.

Our Commitment

These updates reinforce our ongoing commitment to regulatory compliance and industry standards, high‑quality, defensible NDT services, and continuous improvement in robust competence assurance.
The revised scheme supports confidence in inspection outcomes, reporting integrity, and long-term asset management decisions.
For formal scheme documentation and guidance, please visit the GULT Scheme webpage.
For further information or clarification, please contact us at:
training@guided‑ultrasonics.com

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