Visual Testing (VT) is the most widely used non-destructive testing method in industry — and the foundation of every quality-control program. Before any other NDT method is applied, the surface tells the first story: weld profile, surface discontinuities, corrosion, mechanical damage, and dimensional conformity are all assessed visually. A qualified VT Level II inspector is the person trusted to make that assessment and sign off on it.
At ITNOG GmbH, our Visual Inspection Level II course prepares technicians and engineers to perform, interpret, and report visual examinations to international standards — and to take responsibility for results on real industrial and construction projects.
What a Level II qualification means
Under EN ISO 9712, NDT personnel are certified at three levels. Level II is where you move from performing inspections to taking responsibility for them. A certified VT Level II inspector can:
- Select the visual testing technique and equipment appropriate to the task
- Set up and verify examination conditions, including lighting and access
- Perform direct and indirect visual examinations to written procedures
- Interpret and evaluate results against applicable codes, standards, and acceptance criteria (such as ISO 5817)
- Prepare and verify NDT instructions and write inspection reports
- Supervise and guide Level I personnel
What the course covers
The training combines theory and hands-on practice, including:
- Optical principles, lighting, and viewing conditions
- Direct and remote/indirect visual testing techniques
- Inspection aids: gauges, loupes, mirrors, borescopes, and measuring tools
- Weld inspection and common discontinuities across different welding processes
- Corrosion, surface defects, and their causes
- Relevant codes, standards, and acceptance criteria
- Writing NDT instructions and inspection reports
- Practical examination exercises on representative test specimens
Prerequisites
To qualify for VT Level II under EN ISO 9712, candidates are generally expected to meet the following requirements:
- Vision: Near-vision acuity allowing the candidate to read Jaeger Number 1 or Times Roman N4.5 type (or equivalent) at not less than 30 cm, with one or both eyes; and the ability to distinguish and differentiate contrast between colours, verified by an Ishihara or equivalent test. Vision is re-verified annually.
- Prior level: Candidates may either hold a VT Level I qualification and add the further supervised experience required for Level II, or enter Level II directly by completing the combined training and industrial experience for both levels.
- Industrial experience: A minimum period of supervised experience in visual testing, as defined by EN ISO 9712 for the applicable product or industrial sector.
- Training: Completion of the required organized training hours in the VT method.
Exact experience durations vary by certification route and sector. Our training team will confirm the specific requirements that apply to you before enrolment.
Who should attend
This course is ideal for inspectors, welding and quality personnel, site supervisors, and engineers working in oil & gas, power, wind, battery, manufacturing, and EPC construction projects — anyone responsible for quality assurance on fabricated or welded components.
Interested in joining?
Course dates are scheduled based on demand, and places are limited. To register your interest or ask about the next available session, please contact us. Our training department will get back to you with requirements and enrolment details.