CSWIP Underwater Inspection – Career Map

Underwater inspection training and certification was introduced in the early 1980s. The CSWIP certification scheme is recognised worldwide for competence and assurance in this field. There are four categories available depending on the career path that you select for yourself; you can view the career map here.

The two main routes originate from being a diver route and a non-diver route. Divers are qualified personnel that go into the water while non-divers tend to know more about visual inspection procedures or other non-diving specialties such as engineering, etc. Both of these categories have a set of entry requirements. These routes can be followed in a straight line but, as they are also intertwined, you can take different routes as the levels progress and you are promoted and certified - let us explain how!

The diver route requires for you to have an approved commercial diving qualification and an in-date, HSE approved full commercial diver medical certificate to become a 3.1U NDT inspection diver. If you keep this certification for a minimum of 3 years, with a minimum of 100 logged hours of underwater inspection work, or have a current or previously approved 3.1U or 3.2U, you can become 3.3U NDT ROV inspector. This can further lead you to the level of a 3.4U underwater inspection controller. If taking the diver route, from the 3.1U NDT inspection diver, you would be required to have a 3.1U certificate, and fulfil a few more requirements. This would help you become 3.2U NDT inspection diver, once a few other eligibility criteria are met.

In order to reach the higher certifications through the non-diver route, you have multiple options and can choose one whichever fits your own criteria and training. Manoeuvring through this route, there are multiple overlaps and you can easily transfer from the diver route to the non-diver route with a few requirements and eligibility criteria being met (you can refer to the map for exact details). Plus, you can also approach more training, such as ACFM Level 1 or ACFM Level 2.

We can assist you in whichever steps you require. TWI provides you with multiple routes and options to pursue a particular step towards your desired certification.

There are refresher training courses offered as well, for every 5 to 10 years. For more information, you can check our website or contact us here.