More and more specifications call for a qualified, independent coating inspector. If you are a fabricator or applicator, that can feel like someone looking over your shoulder. In practice, a good inspector protects you as much as the client.
What the inspector checks
A third-party inspector works through the same stages as the coating itself:
- Before work starts: the specification, data sheets and inspection and test plan are reviewed, and hold points agreed.
- Surface preparation: preparation grade, profile, dust and soluble salts.
- Application: climate against the dew point, wet film thickness and overcoating times.
- Finished coating: dry film thickness, cure, adhesion where specified, and appearance.
- Records: everything measured, photographed and signed off.
What you receive
The value is in the records: climate logs, film thickness data, test results, photographs and non-conformance reports showing what was found and how it was put right. They show the work met the specification at the time it was done.
Why clients ask for it
- Evidence: once a coating is finished, the steps that decide its life cannot be checked. Inspection records are the only proof.
- Independence: results come from someone with no stake in the programme or the price.
- Fewer disputes: problems are raised and fixed at the hold point, not argued over at handover.
Why it helps applicators
A clear inspection record protects the applicator when a problem appears years later for reasons that have nothing to do with the application. It also catches small issues while they are cheap to fix, rather than after the scaffold has gone.
Qualifications
Look for recognised inspector certification such as ICorr or AMPP (formerly NACE), at the level the specification requires. Our lead inspector holds ICorr Level 2 and AMPP (formerly NACE) Level 2. ICorr Level 3 and AMPP-certified inspectors are available in the company where a project needs senior sign-off.