If you know anything about nondestructive testing, you know that it is a vital component to the quality assurance of a wide variety of industries. In technicians’ eyes, nondestructive testing is synonymous with safety. For those unfamiliar with the intricacies of various nondestructive testing methods, it may come as a shock that nondestructive testing involves a number of risks like disposing of chemicals.
If you are considering entering the nondestructive testing field or have already begun certification, it is crucial to understand the risks that come with the job to keep yourself and others safe.
Here is why some NDT methods require disposing of chemicals and other risks.
Of the material hazards involved in nondestructive testing, the primary method with which they are involved is liquid penetrant testing. Liquid penetrant testing is a method of NDT during which the property of capillary action is used to detect a flaw in the component under inspection.
Penetrant testing involves the application of a low viscosity liquid to the surface of the component. After a dwelling time, the excess penetrant is removed, and any remaining liquid in voids will flow out, indicating a flaw. There are a number of risks associated with the use of chemicals like these liquids.
According to NDT Technician, “Prolonged breathing of penetrant vapors, emulsifier vapors or solvent remover vapors may cause headaches, nausea or tightness or pain in the chest. To avoid this problem, forced air ventilation exhausting to the outside of the building may be required in addition to constant alertness to breakdown of the system or increased sensitivity of personnel.”
The use and disposal of chemicals like those used during liquid penetrant testing can be dangerous to technicians when not handled with utmost care. For the safety of all technicians, it is critical that all prescribed safety measures are adhered to at all points in the inspection process.
Aside from the use of chemicals, nondestructive testing is certainly not without risks. As in any job that intersects with the manufacturing industry, there are risks associated with inspecting machinery-- just as there are risks associated with operating machinery.
When technicians are not careful, there can be a risk of injury or even death when inspecting machinery. Technicians may also incur risk when inspecting assets that are large in size or positioned at great heights.
While drone technologies have mitigated a large amount of risk for technicians, there may still be some need for technicians to climb or be lifted to utility poles and other assets for inspections. These risks are serious and should always be approached with caution and care.
In the world of NDT, ignorance can be deadly. Make sure that you are properly educated on safety procedures with a top-tie NDT education from TXNDT. If you are looking for nondestructive testing services to protect your assets or to become a technician yourself through NDT technician training, it’s crucial to choose the right NDT training institute to meet your NDT needs.
TXNDT is a cut above the rest with superior NDT courses, knowledgeable instructors, and hands-on coursework to prepare all emerging technicians for NDT certification. Check us out online or give us a call today at 281-231-0001 to see how TXNDT can work for you!
