NDT -- THE KEY TO STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY

This paper presents several case histories of past structural failures and how the effective use of nondestructive testing (NDT) could have helped to minimize them. The need for highly qualified inspection personnel and their role is also emphasized. A model qualification/certification program for state transportation agencies is presented. Two central certification programs for NDT personnel recently initiated in the United States are included for consideration by the transportation/structures industries. Finally, an innovative system of NDT data management applicable to structures is described.