5 Factors to Consider When Choosing an NDT Provider in Canada
Fast, accurate and cost-effective, non-destructive testing (NDT) allows for internal and external inspection of components, materials and structures — without altering or damaging the item. NDT plays a crucial role in many Canadian industries, including aerospace, oil and gas, manufacturing, mining and construction.
Conventional NDT methods include radiographic testing (RT), ultrasonic testing (UT), magnetic particle testing (MT), penetrant testing (PT) and visual testing (VT). In addition, a multitude of advanced NDT options are available when more detailed information is needed about a defect, flaw or discrepancy.
When evaluating NDT inspection companies, it’s important to find a provider with the technical know-how and customer service to meet your needs and expectations — a company like Industrial Inspection & Analysis (IIA).
IIA in Canada
IIA is one of North America’s most trusted inspection providers, and our roots run deep in Canada. We began offering premier inspection and engineering solutions in Canada following the 2017 acquisition of Ontario-based Domson Engineering & Inspection. In 2024, IIA Canada broadened its service portfolio and geographic presence through the acquisition of Quebec-based Tribologik Laboratories and the addition of Kova Engineering. With Kova’s 15 locations across Canada, IIA has strengthened its national footprint and enhanced its ability to serve clients from coast to coast.
Choosing an NDT Provider
As one of North America’s most respected inspection companies, IIA offers these five key considerations when choosing an NDT provider in Canada.
- Credentials
It’s vital to have confidence in your NDT provider’s ability to select the proper method(s) and deliver accurate results. Look for a respected, reputable company that is recognized by standards organizations like the Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB), the Canadian General Standards Board (CGSB), and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
In Canada, the CGSB establishes and oversees Recommended Practices for the application of NDT methods. Specifically, Canadian NDT providers should adhere to the CAN/CGSB-48.9712 standard. The Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB) provides certification, registration, and training services related to visual inspection work. It is the primary body in Canada that administers and enforces visual inspection standards, particularly those outlined in the CSA W47.1, W47.2, and W186 codes.
Another key accreditation is ISO 9001, which attests that the provider has effective quality assurance processes and training to consistently deliver high-quality, accurate services.
Beyond organizational accreditations, make sure that the technicians assigned to your project are CGSB certified in the specific NDT methods, as well as CSA/CWB for visual inspectors.
- Tip: Ask about company accreditations and staff certifications to ensure a high level of competence and consistency.
2. Capabilities
Many different tools, techniques and technologies are used in industrial NDT inspections; and the field is always evolving. Position your project for success by partnering with an inspection provider that combines superior technical expertise with practical solutions, ensuring techniques are applied correctly the first time.
A full-service provider skilled in many methods can help you identify the method, or methods, that will best meet your needs.
- Tip: In addition to conventional NDT, ask about a firm’s ability to provide advanced NDT techniques, as well as assistance with corrective action, laboratory testing, training, and engineering solutions.
3. Compliance Expertise & Industry Experience
Every industry has its own standards, regulations, safety protocols, and challenges. It’s important that an NDT partner be familiar with the nuances and needs of your industry.
While every project is unique, industry-specific experience will help minimize or eliminate the inspection team’s learning curve and streamline the time it takes to complete your project. Technicians who have worked in your industry will be more familiar with common faults and flaws affecting your systems and equipment.
In addition, different testing standards apply to different types of industrial equipment. It’s important that potential providers have an in-depth understanding of all applicable codes, standards and regulations affecting your equipment.
Ensure the provider adheres to industry standards set by organizations like the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). In addition to industry-specific standards, you will want to make sure the provider follows general safety standards, such as CSA standards and OHSA workplace safety regulations.
- Tip: Ask about a potential provider’s safety record and experience in your specific industry. You may wish to request a list of current and former clients and a portfolio of previous projects. The depth of that information, and the willingness to provide it, may be an indicator of a company’s expertise in a given area (or lack thereof).
4. Cost
Cost is a major factor when choosing an inspection provider, but it is far from the only consideration. Beyond dollars and cents, it’s important to evaluate the value you will receive for the price you pay. Will the provider respond promptly to your questions and requests? Do they have experts who can provide assistance if testing reveals something unexpected or you need guidance on corrective action?
In the long run, the lowest-cost option may prove more expensive, particularly if a provider is not responsive or misses critical flaws that could escalate into costly repairs or safety issues down the road.
Tip: Ask for a detailed quote and consider whether the firm’s pricing reflects the level of technology, expertise and post-inspection support you need and expect.
5. Customer Service
Though customer service is difficult to quantify, it’s vital to understand how an NDT provider communicates inspection results and the level of support you will receive (both during and after the inspection). Top-notch providers will deliver comprehensive, easy-to-read reports that will help you prioritize and plan maintenance and repairs. The best providers are always willing to answer follow-up questions even after the job is done.
To ensure that your project’s goals and timelines are achieved, ask potential providers how quickly they can turn your project around. If your preferred provider cannot accommodate your request within your desired timeframe, you may have to widen your search for potential partners.
Whether it’s a unique service offering or superior customer care, it helps to know what sets a firm apart from its competitors. Experienced consultants know exactly what their company does best. Understanding each firm’s differentiators can help you decide if that firm is a good match for you in terms of technical expertise, customer service philosophy and other factors.
- Tip: Ask about the company’s customer service philosophy, and be clear about your expectations. You may also wish to request sample reports and references who can provide insight into a provider’s customer service.
Canada’s NDE Experts
For decades, IIA’s Canadian Services team has been a leading provider to many of the nation’s largest plants, mills, and manufacturing facilities, as well as the lift, construction, power generation, oil and gas, chemical, and steel fabrication industries.
We specialize in conventional and advanced NDT. Our field technicians hold a variety of certifications for multiple applications, such as CGSB for NDT; CWB for welding inspection; API for storage tanks, pressure vessels, and piping; and NACE/AMPP for coating inspection. Our inspectors have in-depth knowledge of all applicable codes and standards to properly perform non-destructive evaluations in your industry and accurately interpret the results.
The IIA team includes professional engineers who work closely with our inspection teams to help you maximize the life of your equipment. Our engineers are licensed to consult in almost all provinces and Territories across Canada.
Our large and growing footprint in Canada means that we can be at your site, usually within hours. As you consider potential NDT partners, we hope your journey leads you back to Industrial Inspection & Analysis.
