In industries where corrosion control and surface protection are vital, inspections play a critical role in ensuring quality and compliance. What was once known as NACE inspection is now referred to as AMPP inspection, reflecting the global transition in certification and standards.
Whether you’re involved in infrastructure, mining, oil and gas, transport or marine projects, understanding the importance of coating inspections and certifications can significantly impact the longevity and safety of your assets.
What is NACE Inspection?
NACE inspection refers to the evaluation of coating systems used to protect surfaces from corrosion and environmental degradation. These inspections ensure that protective coatings are applied correctly, surface preparation is adequate, and the finished system meets the specified standards.
With the merger of NACE and SSPC into the Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP), this process is now generally known as AMPP inspection. However, the core purpose remains the same: to uphold industry benchmarks for surface preparation, coating application, and asset protection.
Why NACE Coating Inspections Are Crucial for Quality Control
For industrial projects, quality control in coating is not just about aesthetics,—it’s about performance and safety. NACE coating inspections help verify that coatings:
- Are applied at the correct thickness
- Adhere to the surface as intended
- Provide long-term protection against corrosion
This type of corrosion inspection ensures that coatings are not only compliant with specifications but also capable of withstanding harsh environmental and industrial conditions. Poorly applied coatings can lead to premature failure, safety hazards, and costly repairs.
The Process of NACE Inspections and Certification
During a NACE/AMPP inspection, certified professionals assess multiple factors including:
- Surface cleanliness and profile
- Environmental conditions during application
- Coating material compliance
- Dry film thickness (DFT) and proper curing
- Holiday (pinhole) testing
Coating inspector certification through AMPP ensures that individuals have undergone rigorous training in these areas. This process supports consistent standards across industrial coating inspections worldwide.
For businesses in need of professional coating assessments, Remedy Asset Protection offers independent inspection and verification services tailored to meet national and international compliance.
How NACE Inspections Help Prevent Corrosion and Improve Coatings
Corrosion inspection is essential for industries that operate in aggressive environments. Without effective coatings and regular inspections, assets can deteriorate quickly, especially in sectors like marine, oil and gas, and infrastructure. In the built environment corrosion inspection is essential for coastal structures or poolside structures.
AMPP-certified inspectors ensure that protective coatings are fit for purpose. By identifying flaws in surface preparation or coating application early on, they help improve coating performance, reduce downtime, and extend asset life.
How to Become a Certified NACE Inspector: What You Need to Know
Interested in a career in industrial coating inspection? Here’s how to get started:
- Training: Enrol in an AMPP/NACE training program that covers topics such as surface prep, coating technology, and inspection techniques.
- Exam: Pass the relevant certification exam.
- Experience: Gain hands-on experience in the field to progress to higher certification levels.
AMPP offers multiple certification pathways, and professionals with previous NACE certification can transition to AMPP credentials to stay current with updated standards.
All inspectors at RemedyAP are a minimum level 2 certified.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is NACE certification still valid?
Yes, existing NACE certifications remain valid. However, since NACE and SSPC merged in 2021 to form AMPP, certifications are now issued under the AMPP umbrella. It’s advisable to align with AMPP certification to stay updated with the latest best practices.
What is the difference between NACE and AMPP?
NACE (National Association of Corrosion Engineers) and AMPP (Association for Materials Protection and Performance) were separate organisations until their merger. AMPP now encompasses broader standards, including coatings, corrosion, and materials protection, providing a more unified approach.
Do I need a NACE or an AMPP inspector?
Today, NACE inspectors are recognised under AMPP. Hiring an AMPP-certified inspector ensures your projects meet global industry standards for coating application and performance.
An independent third-party inspector should be engaged to provide inspection of quality hold points and review the contractors’ submitted quality control for compliance. This particularly applies if meeting the requirements of AS/NZS 5131 coating quality level PC2.
What does a coating inspector do during a NACE inspection?
They verify coating systems through a comprehensive review of surface conditions, coating thickness, application methods, and curing processes—all to ensure compliance with technical standards.
What industries require NACE inspections?
Sectors such as oil and gas, infrastructure, marine, mining, and manufacturing frequently require NACE inspections to ensure coating reliability and asset protection.
Within the built environment NACE inspections are used to mitigate warranty risk associated with coating failure or corrosion in high rise building facades, poolside structures, coastal buildings, stadiums, and conference centres.
How do I become NACE certified?
Start by enrolling in an official training course, passing the certification exams, and building experience in the field. AMPP offers advanced courses for different inspection levels.
Staying Ahead with AMPP: The Future of Coating Inspection Standards
Understanding the evolution from NACE inspection to AMPP inspection is vital for maintaining compliance and ensuring optimal performance of industrial coatings. Whether you’re hiring an inspector or seeking certification, staying aligned with AMPP standards ensures that your practices are current, reliable, and globally recognised.
If you’re looking for expert, independent verification of your coating projects, get in touch with Remedy Asset Protection today.