PFP Qualification: Boost Your Career in the Oil, Gas, and Energy Industry

PFP Qualification: Boost Your Career in the Oil, Gas, and Energy Industry

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Ignite Your Future: The Power of ICorr PFP Certification

Passive Fire Protection (PFP) is a fundamental component of infrastructure resilience in the oil, gas, and energy sectors. As steel structures and facilities become increasingly sophisticated, it’s clear that there is a significant demand for inspctors with PFP qualification who can navigate this complexity and uphold rigorous safety standards.

PFP inspection is an exciting, demanding, and rewarding path to follow. Aspiring PFP Inspectors must gain relevant qualifications tailored specifically to the nuanced demands of the oil, gas, and energy industries.

The question is, what is the essential qualification in Passive Fire Protection Inspection to boost your career in the oil, gas, and energy industry?

Understanding Passive Fire Protection – The Basics

PFP is characterised by the use of materials and systems designed to contain or slow the spread of fire and smoke in steel structures, without the need for human intervention. This encompasses a range of solutions, from intumescent coatings to fireproof cladding, all engineered to enhance the structural integrity and safety of facilities within the energy sector and save lives.

The Role of PFP in Steel Structure Safety

In the context of oil, gas, and energy installations, PFP plays a pivotal role in mitigating the risk of catastrophic failures. By ensuring the integrity of steel structures in extreme conditions, PFP systems provide critical evacuation time for personnel and safeguard essential services, thereby also minimising potential environmental and economic impacts.

The Pathway to Becoming a PFP Inspector

Although it’s not mandatory, an educational background in engineering, materials science, or a related discipline offers a solid starting point for aspiring PFP inspectors. When such a theoretical grounding is coupled with specialised PFP training, you’ll be equipped with the requisite competencies for the role.

Individuals who have sound, time-served experience in the use of protective coatings to provide corrosion protection to steel structures in the oil, gas, and energy industries would also be well placed to commence education in the inspection of PFP materials.

In addition, hands-on experience and mentorship are invaluable. This will help you to hone your skills and deepen your technical understanding and ability. When you are exposed to PFP applications within the energy industry, PFP qualification will be accelerated, and you’ll be better prepared to manage the complexities of the role of a PFP Inspector.

There are numerous PFP qualifications available, but figuring out which is the most pertinent for the oil, gas, and energy sector is crucial for your career progression. Not all qualifications carry the same weight or relevance in this specialised field.

The ICorr PFP Inspector Certification

“This training provided me the confidence to challenge what I might see on site as non-conforming or poor practice during installation.” Course participant.

In conjunction with PFPNet, ICorr has been meticulous in the development of its PFP training programs. The partnership between these two industry-leading bodies has ensured course material is not only rooted in theory, but is also enriched by its authors who have decades of practical, real-word experience.

It’s a course that not only looks at the right way to conduct PFP installations and what to look for to prevent problems at the time of installation. It also provides you with the knowledge and awareness to consider the future service life of the installation.

It’s an unmatched source of knowledge that highlights the practical nuances of PFP material installation. Course participants frequently applaud the training for its detailed coverage of installation processes, critical distinctions between PFP materials and conventional coatings, and insights into potential installation pitfalls.

“This is a detailed and comprehensive course in all the key elements for installation of PFP materials.” Course participant.

The breadth and depth of course content will equip you with the confidence to identify and address non-conformance and poor practice on site, underscoring the course’s value in career development within the oil, gas, and energy sectors.

Benefits of Achieving ICorr PFP Inspector Qualification

Embarking on a career as a PFP inspector within the oil, gas, and energy industry is a journey marked by rigorous training, practical experience, and ethical commitment. Certification is key to your career trajectory.

When you become qualified at Level 2 or Level 3 PFP Inspection with ICorr/PFPNet training, you’ll be recognised for your expertise and dedication in the field. It signals your command of the intricacies of PFP, and your preparedness to contribute to the safety and integrity of critical infrastructure.

In a globally recognised profession, in which international standards shape practices across both local and global projects, ICorr/PFPNet certification demonstrates your familiarity with these standards. It also highlights an ethical approach, in which the responsibility to ensure the safety of infrastructures and personnel is paramount.

In short, the ICorr PFP Inspector Certification not only signifies professional competence but also opens doors to a rewarding career dedicated to safeguarding critical infrastructure against the threat of fire. Want to know more? Then please reach out to the admin team at ICorr or email IMechE Argyll Ruane.

Cathodic Protection Unveiled: Safeguarding Concrete Structures

Cathodic Protection Unveiled: Safeguarding Concrete Structures

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Setting the Benchmark to Excel in Your CP Career

Cathodic Protection (CP) is, without a doubt, a key strategy in the protection of the integrity of concrete structures against the relentless forces of corrosion. A blend of scientific ingenuity and practical application, cathodic protection (CP) systems act to prolong the lifespan of vital infrastructure.

CP for concrete has an increasingly significant role to play in infrastructure maintenance, as it has a drastically lower carbon and energy impact compared to techniques for repairing concrete. Historically, all carbonated and chloride contaminated concrete needed to be removed which had a massive impact from materials to/from site and the use of cement heavy products. CP means that only the damaged concrete needs to be repaired and the contaminated concrete that would fail in the future, can be left in place, drastically reducing the environmental impact.

In this article, we examine the intricacies of CP, the CP systems related to concrete, and the critical role of continuous professional development and certification in this specialised field.

Types of Cathodic Protection Systems for Concrete Structures

There are two primary types of CP systems:

  1. Galvanic Anode Systems

These harness the electrochemical potential differences between different metals to provide protection, using an effective yet straightforward approach.

  1. Impressed Current Cathodic Protection (ICCP) Systems

ICCP systems, powered by an external power source, are more robust, offering controllable protection levels, especially for larger and more complex structures. They are particularly suitable for highly corrosive environments, such as concrete with elevated levels of chloride contamination.

This table will help you understand these differences, and which should be used for specific installations (buried assets, marine environments, and concrete structures):

 

Galvanic Anode Systems

Impressed Current Cathodic Protection (ICCP) Systems

Advantages

·        Simple installation and design

·        No external power source required

·        Lower intensity of monitoring required

·        Ideal for remote locations where power is not readily available

·        Ideal for shorter service lives

·        Highly controllable protection levels

·        Suitable for large and complex structures

·        Long-term, cost-effective for larger systems

Disadvantages

·        Limited protective current output, not suitable for highly corrosive environments

·        Anodes need to be replaced over time, leading to higher long-term maintenance costs

·        Less control over the amount of protection provided

·        Requires external power source and more complex electrical components

·        Installation and initial setup are more complex and costly

·        Regular monitoring and maintenance are crucial

Suitable Applications
  • Low corrosivity environments
  • Shorter service lives
  • Situations where a simple, minimal maintenance solution is preferred
  • Large scale structures like pipelines, offshore platforms, and large storage tanks
  • Long term service lives
  • Areas where long-term maintenance costs are a consideration

 

Design Considerations for Concrete Structures

To design a CP system for concrete structures, we must possess a thorough understanding of environmental factors, structural characteristics, and the corrosive elements at play. We must consider key factors that include:

·       Environmental Impact

The surrounding environment will influence a CP design. We need to consider factors such as salinity, humidity, temperature, and exposure to chemicals. As an example, a structure near the coast or in an industrial area is likely to require a more robust CP system because it is in a more aggressively corrosive environment.

·       Structural Complexity

Anode placement is crucial to the uniform distribution of protective current in a CP system. An intricately designed structure, with hard-to-reach areas, will require greater innovation in the design of its CP system – and, when designing such a system, we mustn’t forget the impact on future maintenance and monitoring.

·       Electrical Continuity

Discontinuity of the reinforcement can be a major problem, leaving parts of the structure unprotected and potential damaging others.

·       Anode Selection

Choosing the right type of anode (for example ribbon, mesh, or conductive paint), is crucial. When doing so, we’ll need to consider factors such as current output, durability, and compatibility with the concrete environment.

·       Power Source and Output

For ICCP systems, selecting an appropriate power source is essential. It must be efficient and reliable, delivering consistent output over time. It’s also crucial to accurately calculate the required current density to avoid issues of hydrogen embrittlement or acid production.

·       Longevity and Futureproofing

CP systems should be designed to extend the longevity of the concrete structure. This means we must anticipate future environmental changes and/or structural modifications as well as select suitable materials for the system.

·       Compliance with Standards

Finally, throughout design, installation, and maintenance, compliance with international standards is critical. This is key to ensure the system is designed according to the best practices in the industry.

BS EN ISO 12696 sets out exactly what should be included/demonstrated by a CP design and what the agreed performance criteria are.

Installation and Implementation

When installing CP systems for concrete structures, it’s crucial to execute the design with precision. However, there will also be challenges to navigate, such as access to the structure, ensuring minimal disruption, and integrating the CP system seamlessly with the existing infrastructure. Successful installation follows a systemic approach like the following:

  • Preliminary Survey and Assessment

A comprehensive survey of the structure is needed before installation can begin, including assessing the condition of the concrete, the extent of corrosion, availability of as-built information and the accessibility of the structure. This phase often includes tests to determine concrete resistivity, chloride content, and the condition of existing steel reinforcement.

  • Preparation of the Surface

Where necessary, the surface is prepared to facilitate effective installation. This applies to systems that use mesh overlay and conductive coatings

  • Anode Installation

Anodes are installed according to the design specifications.

  • Wiring and Electrical Connections

All anodes are connected through wiring to the power source (in ICCP systems) or to each other (in GCP systems). Proper routing and insulation of wires are crucial to prevent physical damage and electrical leakage.

  • Power Source and Control Unit Installation

For ICCP systems, the power source, often referred to as the Transformer Rectifier [TR], is installed. The rectifier is connected to the anode system and a control unit that allows for adjustment and monitoring of the output.

  • System Commissioning

Once installed, the CP system is commissioned. Adjustments are made as necessary to ensure optimal protection. This is a process that usually takes place over several weeks and should be documented in a formal commissioning report.

  • Documentation and Handover

Comprehensive documentation of the installation, including schematics, installation details, and settings, is provided. This is crucial for future maintenance and monitoring activities. A handover to the maintenance team is conducted, often with training sessions on system operation and troubleshooting.

  • Monitoring and Adjustment

All CP systems require monitoring. How much monitoring and what this entails depends on the system, type of anode and the nature of the structure being protected.

Monitoring is often conducted remotely, but a site inspection is generally required once a year to confirm the structure is not degrading and to verify the remotely collected data.

There are standard tests, with agreed performance criteria, which are used to determine the level of protection and, in the case of ICCP, to adjust the outputs.

Standard BS EN ISO 15257:2017

Standard BS EN ISO 15257:2017 sets out the required competency levels for personnel engaged in CP. There are five distinct levels of competency identified within the standard, each establishing a benchmark of competence according to duties and responsibilities.

For both organizations and individuals, adherence to this standard guarantees several key outcomes:

  • Ensuring that CP systems are overseen by individuals with the requisite qualifications.
  • Upholding exacting standards of safety and operational integrity for assets under CP.
  • Reinforcing a commitment to uphold professional standards in the realm of cathodic protection.

To be certified as having the essential skills and knowledge for effective implementation and management of CP systems at each level, individuals must demonstrate an appropriate and comprehensive understanding of:

  • Fundamental principles of CP.
  • Detailed aspects of CP system design.
  • Best practices in the installation, operation, and maintenance of CP systems.

How do you become certified in CP for Concrete Structures?

While holding a degree related to the field can be beneficial, it’s not essential for those seeking to enter or enhance an existing career in this specialised field. The key is to acquire relevant experience, qualifications, and certifications.

If you are employed in CP for concrete structures, specialised CP training is crucial. This should be aligned to your role and the distinct challenges you are likely to face, and equip you with an in-depth knowledge of:

  • Basic concepts of corrosion
  • Core principles of CP
  • Specialised techniques developed for the protection of concrete infrastructure

After completing your training, you must pass an examination to demonstrate that you have the required level of theoretical knowledge for your chosen level. Passing the exam is not, however, the end of the process. Applicants must demonstrate an adequate level of field experience and real-world design experience [for Level 4] before they can obtain certification.

Ongoing professional progress in CP for Steel in Concrete

CP is a continually evolving practice. As innovative technologies and CP strategies come to the fore, you’ll need to advance your own knowledge and capability. In addition, as your career progresses, you must enhance your certification through each level described by the Standard.

ICorr CP training, qualifications, and certification

The Institute of Corrosion (ICorr) plays a pivotal role in shaping the CP landscape. Our specialised CP in Concrete Structures training programmes are internationally recognised, designed to accommodate varying levels of knowledge and expertise, and equip you with the certification you need to advance your career in this demanding field. These are delivered by experienced, articulate, good-looking and well-dressed expert engineers at a purpose-built facility in Shropshire, which includes a series of mocked-up concrete structures and CP systems.

To learn more about ICorr’s training courses and certification process for Cathodic Protection in Concrete Structures, including the dates and costs of upcoming courses, read more about our Cathodic Protection, Training, Assessment and Certification Scheme here.

ICorr Leads Corrosion Management and Policy Influence

ICorr Leads Corrosion Management and Policy Influence

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Introducing Reuse, Repair, Replace

In the dynamic environment of corrosion management, the Institute of Corrosion (ICorr) stands at the forefront of pioneering solutions and policies, with far reaching influence. Consequently, we’re thrilled to announce our pivotal role in the upcoming ‘Reuse, Repair, Replace Conference’ set for 1st July 2024, a seminal event poised to shape the future of corrosion management.

This conference, held in the prestigious setting of Westminster for the Parliamentary and Scientific Committee, symbolises our unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovation. It’s another example that demonstrates how ICorr members have a collective voice that has the power to influence policy as part of a global community committed to making lasting impacts.

Reuse, Repair, Replace Conference – A Paradigm Shift in Corrosion Management

Embracing a new era in corrosion management, the idea for the Reuse, Repair, Replace Conference was first put forward by ICorr member Trevor Crichton, also a member of the Parliamentary and Scientific Committee. It promises to be a defining moment in the continuous journey towards sustainability.

The session, chaired by Stephen Metcalfe MP, and sponsored by ICorr, aims to challenge conventional perspectives and introduce innovative strategies that align with the principles of sustainability in corrosion science.

At the heart of the conference are four esteemed speakers, each an expert in their respective fields:

  • Gareth Hinds (a previous President of the Institute of Corrosion) will explore the role of corrosion in low carbon energy technologies, shedding light on the intersection of environmental sustainability and corrosion prevention.
  • Christian Stone, a speaker at ICorr’s 2023 AGM, will address the critical issue of infrastructure longevity, focusing on the prevention of corrosion in vital structures, including RAAC.
  • Izabela Gajewska, winner of ICorr’s Young Engineer Programme 2020, will inspire with insights into mentoring the next generation of corrosion professionals, ensuring the legacy of our work extends far into the future.
  • Finally, Trevor Crichton will discuss the potential for the reuse and remanufacture of steel, a topic of crucial importance for sustainable development.

Each contributor will speak for 10 to 15 minutes, before fielding questions from an audience of parliamentarians and P&SC members from across the UK science and engineering community.

Event Options

There are two options put forward for the event.

The first is an in-person conference, followed by the Chairman’s reception to be held at 1 Parliament Street. This reception will be open to all attendees. There will also be a dinner, though numbers for this are limited to 25 on a first-come-first-served basis. The dinner includes free places for the speakers and up to six guests of the partnering organisation. This dinner is akin to a round table discussion, chaired by Stephen Metcalfe MP (Chatham House Rules will be observed).

The second option is to hold the meeting online, allowing people to attend from wherever they are, but without the post-conference events which are considered key for messages to be discussed and summarised for parliamentarians to report back to relevant select committees/ministers.

Stephen Metcalfe and Stephen Benn (President) are both in favour of the in-person conference format, as is the Institute of Corrosion – we believe it represents an unparalleled opportunity for meaningful dialogue and networking.

Whichever format is selected, the session will take place between 5:30pm and 7pm.

The Benefits of ICorr’s Membership in the P&SC

ICorr’s membership of the P&SC demonstrates our commitment to bridging the gap between STEM and parliament and promoting best practice in corrosion management.

Established in 1939 as Parliament’s first All-Party Parliamentary Group, the P&SC plays a crucial role in promoting the relevance of scientific and technological developments to matters of public interest and the formulation of national policy.

As a P&SC member, ICorr can engage directly with policymakers, ensuring that the critical issues surrounding corrosion prevention and management are communicated at the highest levels. It’s a partnership that also facilitates incredible networking opportunities, allowing us to connect with parliamentarians and high-level stakeholders on behalf of our members. These interactions are invaluable, offering unique insights into the workings of the Houses of Parliament and the role that STEM plays in parliamentary business.

Testimonials from distinguished members of the committee, such as Lord Patel KT, Chair of the House of Lords Science and Technology Committee, and Ian Taylor, former MP and Minister for Science, underscore the profound impact of being part of the P&SC. Their experiences speak of “excellent opportunities offered by the Parliamentary and Scientific Committee for parliamentarians from both Houses to engage with scientists and the latest developments in science and research,” and the P&SC as being, “a powerful platform – (that) offers fascinating insights and exchanges on a wide range of scientific and engineering ideas.”

By participating in this esteemed committee, ICorr ensures that the voices of its members are not only heard but also instrumental in shaping the policies that will define the future of corrosion science and engineering.

Join ICorr to Make Sure Your Voice Is Heard

There are many benefits of professional membership of ICorr. These include improving your personal brand; access to exciting CPD opportunities; incredible networking opportunities; access to the members-only area of our website; and a route to Chartered Engineer status.

As a member of ICorr you also ensure that your voice is heard at the highest echelons of policy and industry dialogue. You gain a platform to contribute to critical discussions on corrosion management, influence policy on national and global stages, and stay at the forefront of advances in corrosion science.

ICorr – Isn’t It Time to Put Yourself at the Collective Forefront of Policy?

Our pivotal role in the upcoming ‘Reuse, Repair, Replace Conference’ and our strategic membership with the P&SC underscore our commitment to making a significant impact on the global corrosion management and prevention stage. Such initiatives demonstrate the influence that our membership can have in shaping future standards and practices in the corrosion industry.

Isn’t it time for you to boost your professional credentials?

We invite you to become a member of the Institute of Corrosion, and contact us for more information about the Reuse, Repair, Replace Conference on 1st July 2024. Together, our collective voice will be heard. Together, we have the power to influence the future of corrosion science and engineering, and shape a sustainable global economy from which everyone benefits.

Corrosion: The Devil You Don’t Notice Until It’s Too Late

Corrosion: The Devil You Don’t Notice Until It’s Too Late

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On World Corrosion Day, We All Have a Voice

Corrosion – or, as most people would call it rust because of its reddish-brown colour – is like a silent stalker. On World Corrosion Day, it’s worth remembering that it’s all around us, yet often goes unnoticed until it is too late. It has the power to wreak havoc on your home, where you work, the roads you drive on, the trains and buses we use as commuters, and more.

Left unchecked, corrosion can not only destroy our environment, it can turn your most prized possession to dust, and it can also destroy lives and livelihoods.

World Corrosion Day is set aside to raise awareness of corrosion; what it is, how you can spot it, and what we can all do to help prevent it from causing colossal damage in all walks of life.

How much do you know about corrosion?

Key Takeaways

  • Corrosion is Everywhere: Corrosion, is a pervasive force that destroys or oxidises metal surfaces, and impacts everything from our home appliances and vehicles to the infrastructure of entire cities.
  • The Environmental and Health Impacts Are Significant: Not only does corrosion contribute to environmental pollution, but it also poses substantial health risks. Corroded materials can contaminate our air, water, and even the food we consume, with potentially hazardous effects on our health.
  • Safety Risks Cannot Be Overstated: The structural integrity of buildings, bridges, and transportation can be severely compromised by corrosion and have led to catastrophic failures, such as those that caused a bridge collapse in Ayrshire and a signal post to collapse onto railway lines near Newbury.
  • Financial Costs Are Astronomical: The global economy incurs an estimated £2 to £3 trillion in costs associated with corrosion each year. That’s a cost that is borne by all of us – in higher prices and higher taxes.
  • Prevention and Control Are Key: Innovations in corrosion prevention, such as the use of corrosion resistant materials, protective coatings, and regular maintenance, can significantly reduce the impacts of corrosion. The Institute of Corrosion and the wider corrosion industry play a vital role in advancing these solutions and educating the public and professionals alike.
  • Individual Action Makes a Difference: Awareness and proactive measures are essential in the fight against corrosion. That’s why we have World Corrosion Day. We all have a part to play. Simple steps like performing regular maintenance on household items and supporting environmental policies can have a profound impact.
  • Play your part on World Corrosion Day, by liking the Institute of Corrosion on Facebook or following us on LinkedIn.

What is Corrosion? Let’s Get the Scientific Bit Out of the Way!

At its core, corrosion is the process by which metals deteriorate due to chemical reactions with their environment. How fast this happens depends upon many factors, like the material used, the environment surrounding that material and the temperature.

Confused? Let’s put it another way.

Corrosion is a gradual process, like the natural decay you’ll see as an apple turns brown when it is exposed to the air. That’s irreversible decay, which so often goes unnoticed until it’s too late. Sit and watch that apple, and the change is almost invisible. Walk away for a while and then return, and you’ll want to chuck that apple in the trash.

Everyday Examples of Corrosion

Corrosion is all around us – in our homes, in our cities, and on our farmland. Here are just a few examples:

Home Appliances

Corrosion loves to attack where it’s unseen. Like the hidden underbelly of washing machines, the inside edges of dishwashers, and the crevices of water tanks. No domestic appliance is immune to attack. Once it takes hold, it’s like a stealthy enemy creeping up on you. The appliance that should have been good for several more years yet – ruined by corrosion. That’s money down the drain.

Electronics

Those electronic gadgets we carry around with us, or that are integral to our lives, aren’t immune from corrosion, either. Metal doesn’t have to be soaked to become corroded. An unfortunate liquid spill and even humidity can cause enough dampness in circuits and components to set corrosion on its destructive path.

Who hasn’t opened the battery compartment of an abandoned radio or remote control and found the batteries corroded? If you’re lucky, you might be able to salvage that radio. If not, that’s more money spent on a replacement.

Around the Home: Gates, Gutters, and Gardens

Outside, corrosion lays siege to metal gates, guttering, and even the tools we use to tend our gardens. Now, it’s one thing having a spade or hoe break during use, but that rusty lock on your garden gate – it’s an open invitation to burglars. Those little holes that corrosion caused to appear in your gutter? The drip will soon become a waterfall when it rains, and that’s going to damage your home.

Vehicles

Vehicles, especially in climates where rain, snow, and the use of road salt are prevalent, are major victims of corrosion. Especially underneath the car, in the arches, and even inside doors, corrosion can take an uncompromising grip. When it does, it’s not only the look of your car that suffers – rust is a danger to your safety, and the safety of road users around you.

Infrastructure

Consider our infrastructure, the skeleton on which our towns and cities are built – bridges, public transport systems, and buildings. These bear the brunt of corrosion, and corroded infrastructure poses significant health and safety risks to the public.

The Hidden Dangers of Corrosion

When we see rust, our first reaction is often centred on how horrible it looks, and, of course, a rusting structure is not a pleasant look. But if we only think about the aesthetic effects of corrosion, we ignore its real danger.

Corrosion Affects the Environment

The environmental footprint of corrosion is substantial, contributing to pollution and waste. The degradation of materials leads to the need for replacement. Not only does corrosion lead to harmful substances leaching into our environment, it also means we need to mine more of the earth’s natural resources. It’s a cycle that perpetuates the consumption of resources and energy and generates waste.

The Health Risks of Corrosion

There’s a lot of focus on the pollution caused by plastic particles right now, and quite rightly so. But have you stopped to think about how corroded metal fragments can seep into the air we breathe, the water we drink, the sea we swim in, and the food we eat?

It’s not a pleasant thought, is it?

You’d throw that browned apple away, wouldn’t you? But the contaminated particles caused by corrosion are often so miniscule that they go unseen – just like the plastics we consume daily.

Safety Hazards of Corrosion

The risk of structural failures in corroded buildings and bridges cannot be overstated. Corrosion has been the root cause of many disasters causing injury and death to thousands of people.

What happens when corrosion in infrastructure and transport is ignored? Here are some catastrophic examples:

  • In 2018, the Morandi Bridge in Genoa collapsed and 43 people lost their lives.
  • In the United States, the Silver Bridge 75 vehicles fell into the Ohio River, and 46 people were killed.
  • In 2009, the ferry MV Princess Ashika, riddled with holes caused by corrosion, sank with the loss of 79 lives.

Financial Costs of Corrosion

How much does corrosion cost the world financially?

Let’s return to our browning apple, shall we?

Throw that apple in the bin, and it’s only a few pence to replace it. No big deal, eh? But that washing machine that could have lasted a few years longer – well that’s a couple of hundred pounds. The car that needs a full-body repair could cost a thousand pounds, easily.

Now, let’s think about the cost of repairing a bridge damaged by corrosion. It could be hundreds of thousands, or even millions. Replacing infrastructure could be tens of millions.

It’s been estimated that corrosion costs the world economy around £2 to £3 trillion every year. Sure, some of this cost is borne by private companies – which damages their bottom lines and puts prices up. That’s not good for our personal bank balances.

Governments also pay the price of repair and replacement to infrastructure. At the end of the day, that money comes from our pockets too.

Prevention and Control – The Professional Approach

Any way you cut it, corrosion costs each and every one of us. If we’re lucky, that cost is only financial. In the middle ground, corrosion damages our health and shortens lives. At the worst end of the spectrum, it can cause death.

The corrosion industry has a long history of innovating and implementing corrosion prevention solutions. These include:

  • Selecting corrosion-resistant materials for construction and manufacturing as a proactive step towards mitigating the impacts of corrosion.
  • Applying protective paints and coatings that provide a shield against corrosive forces, prolonging the life of metal surfaces.
  • Installing corrosion systems such as cathodic protection to help prevent corrosion in many different environmental situations.
  • Regular inspection and maintenance schedules to identify and address early signs of corrosion.

The Institute of Corrosion is at the forefront of scientific and engineering advances in the continuous war against corrosion, helping to spread awareness, advance corrosion prevention and mitigation competence, and develop the next generation of corrosion professionals.

What Can You Do?

We can all do more to help reduce the cost of corrosion, improve health and safety, and cut the environmental damage that corrosion causes.

Improving our awareness of corrosion, its causes, and what we can do to help prevent it is the first step. Taking early action against potential or actual corrosion is also important. Simple things like regular maintenance on home appliances, washing salt and debris from our cars, and even removing batteries from unused electronics all help.

Recognising the signs of corrosion in our surroundings and reporting it to whomever it concerns – be that your local authority, sports club, school, etc. – can also alert maintenance departments to the need for early repair to prevent further costly damage.

Finally, supporting initiatives and policies focused on infrastructure maintenance and environmental protection is vital for a sustainable future. We’re instrumental in this – and you can show your support by:

Liking our Facebook page

Following us on LinkedIn

This costs nothing, and every extra follower gives us a little extra clout when it comes to directing government and regulatory policy.

The Institute of Corrosion is sponsoring a ‘Reuse, Repair, Replace’ Conference on 1st July 2024 for the Parliamentary and Scientific Committee Event at Westminster.

Let’s Make World Corrosion Day Count

Understanding and preventing corrosion is crucial to safeguarding our health, safety, and financial wellbeing. It’s a collective responsibility, requiring awareness and action from us all. By joining forces, we can help reduce the risks and costs associated with this pervasive yet overlooked phenomenon, with the goal of ensuring a safer, more sustainable world for future generations.

Join ICorr in its mission to help reduce the impact of corrosion in our daily lives – it’s free to follow us on LinkedIn.

Kickstart Your Career with Level 1 Coating Inspector Training

Kickstart Your Career with Level 1 Coating Inspector Training

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Embarking on a career as a Coating Inspector can be a transformative journey for professionals in the industrial coating and inspection industry. If you’re considering this career route, your first step is industry qualification through coating inspector training.

The Institute of Corrosion (ICorr) Protective Coatings Inspector Level 1 course is designed to provide you with the perfect foundation, and is ideal for all those with as little as one year’s experience in the industry. When you take an ICorr accredited Coating Inspector training, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and skills to succeed, from high-quality training that is relevant to the role.

Here’s all you need to know before you decide which training route is best for you.

Why Do I Need Coating Inspector Training?

Coating Inspector Training is not just about understanding the application of protective coatings; it’s about ensuring the longevity and efficacy of coatings used in various industries to prevent corrosion.

When you consider that corrosion costs the global economy upwards of around £2 trillion each year, you’ll begin to understand just how vital coating inspection training is – completely crucial for maintaining the integrity of infrastructure and equipment, and thereby safeguarding investments and ensuring safety standards.

The ICorr Level 1 Coating Inspector certification is an indispensable asset for anyone looking to secure a role in this field, marking a minimum requirement for those aspiring to become Coating Inspectors.

What Does Coating Inspector Training Level 1 Cover?

Coating Inspector Level 1 training courses that have been accredited by ICorr provide a thorough grounding in all aspects of protective coating application and inspection. Including a practical workshop/assessment (now mandatory), attending the course will enhance your hands-on experience and ensure you are proficient and qualified to:

  • Set up and calibrate specific inspection or test equipment
  • Conduct tests and perform inspections against written criteria
  • Record and classify the results of tests and inspections
  • Report results accurately and effectively

What Can I Expect to Learn on a Level 1 Coating Inspector Training Course?

The course content spans a wide range of topics crucial for Coating Inspectors, including:

·       Protective Coating Application and Spray Painting

Detailed insights into coating types and application techniques ensure inspectors can oversee projects with confidence.

·       Abrasive Blast Cleaning

Understanding the importance of surface preparation and the methods used to achieve the ideal substrate for coating application.

·       Coating Inspection and Inspection Equipment

Training on the tools and methodologies for inspecting coatings to ensure they meet the required standards.

·       Marine Coatings

Specialised knowledge on coatings used in marine environments, where corrosion poses a significant threat.

Additionally, the course delves into QA, QC, and the basics of inspection, providing a comprehensive understanding of normative documents, corrosion of iron and steel, surface preparation for ferrous materials, and much more.

From learning about the main paint constituents and the drying and curing processes, to grasping the basics of corrosion protection methods and understanding environmental considerations, the course prepares you for all the challenges of the role.

How Does Assessment and Certification Work?

Achieving certification involves passing four multiple-choice tests and a practical assessment. This rigorous evaluation ensures that you have a robust understanding of the course material and can apply your knowledge effectively in real-world scenarios.

Why Does ICorr Accreditation Matter?

ICorr’s accreditation of a Protective Coatings Inspector Level 1 course signifies that the course adheres to the highest standards of quality and relevance to the industry.

When you take and qualify from an ICorr accredited course, it demonstrates that you have gained the knowledge and skills which are applied in the latest industry practices and standards. In short, it’s an accepted and valuable credential to kickstart your career as a coating inspector.

Train as a Coatings Inspector Your Way

We all have different learning styles, and different abilities to undertake training. Which is one reason we have partnered with two training providers to deliver the ICorr Coating Inspection Level 1 courses.

IMechE Argyl Ruane delivers classroom learning of the highest quality. This is a five-day course with one day of examination. You’ll be able to take the course at either IMechE Argyll Ruane’s state-of-the-art training facility in Sheffield or Dunfermline. Each of these locations has multiple classrooms with the latest equipment, as well as breakout and refreshment areas.

If you prefer online courses to learn at your own pace and in the comfort of your own home, the Corrodere Academy will suit you perfectly. You’ll get 12 months’ access to 40 hours of interactive online course content, with an online practical workshop and final exams.

Coating Inspector Level 1: The Final Assessment

If you are looking to kickstart a career as a Coating Inspector, the ICorr Protective Coatings Inspector Level 1 certification is the gateway to a rewarding profession. Whether online classes or classroom learning, the comprehensive training that you receive covers everything from the basics of corrosion and coating application to specialised inspection techniques and standards, meaning you can be rest assured that you’ll be well-equipped to take on the challenges of this industry-critical role.

ICorr accreditation is a testament to the quality and depth of training provided, and ensures that certified inspectors are recognised and valued across industries for their expertise in coating inspection.

Want to know more? Contact our admin team by email today to have all your questions answered.