Introduction

The BGAS-CSWIP Site Coatings Inspector certification is internationally recognized and crucial for professionals involved in surface preparation and protective coatings inspection in construction, oil & gas, and infrastructure sectors. This comprehensive 12-day training program—designed by Global Horizon Training Center—prepares participants for the BGAS-CSWIP examination by providing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in coatings inspection, surface preparation, environmental monitoring, safety, and reporting procedures.

The course structure follows BGAS-CSWIP Grade 2 requirements with progression toward Grade 1 knowledge areas, aligning with TWI standards for site coating inspectors.

Objectives

By the end of this training program, participants will be able to:

• Understand the principles of surface preparation and coatings application.

• Identify coating systems and defects on various substrates.

• Conduct inspections according to international standards and specifications.

• Use relevant inspection instruments and tools accurately.

• Record inspection results and generate professional reports.

• Prepare for and successfully pass the BGAS-CSWIP Site Coatings Inspector exam.

Organizational Impact

• Improved quality assurance in coating projects

• Compliance with international coating and inspection standards

• Reduced failures and maintenance costs due to coating defects

• Increased safety and environmental adherence in coating operations

• Competency-building for coating QA/QC departments

Target Audience

• Painting and Coating Inspectors

• QA/QC Technicians in Surface Protection

• Engineers and Supervisors in Oil & Gas, Marine, and Construction

• NACE/BGAS/CSWIP certification candidates

• Coating manufacturers and applicator company personnel

Training Program Outline

Day 1: Introduction to Protective Coatings and BGAS-CSWIP Requirements

• Purpose of protective coatings

• Corrosion basics and coating roles

• BGAS-CSWIP certification overview (Grades 2 & 1)

• Relevant international standards (ISO, SSPC, NACE, etc.)

Day 2: Surface Preparation Methods and Standards

• Abrasive blasting (dry, wet, vacuum), hand and power tools

• ISO 8501 and SSPC standards

• Surface cleanliness grades and visual comparators

• Anchor profile measurement (Replicas, TQC, Testex, etc.)

Day 3: Environmental Conditions and Monitoring

• Dew point, humidity, and temperature control

• Instruments: hygrometers, thermometers, dew point meters

• Environmental limitations for coating applications

• Recording and interpreting environmental data

Day 4: Coating Types, Systems, and Materials

• Epoxy, polyurethane, alkyds, zinc-rich primers

• Paint datasheets and technical specifications

• Coating system selection for different environments

• Mixing, thinning, pot life, and application limits

Day 5: Application Methods and Safety Procedures

• Brush, roller, airless spray, conventional spray

• Equipment handling and calibration

• PPE and safety procedures in coating works

• Common coating application defects and causes

Day 6: Wet and Dry Film Thickness (WFT/DFT) Measurement

• Standards: ISO 2808, SSPC-PA2

• Tools: WFT combs, magnetic DFT gauges, digital DFT meters

• Frequency and location of measurements

• Reading interpretation and compliance verification

Day 7: Holiday Detection and Adhesion Testing

• Low and high-voltage holiday detectors

• Spark testing on pipeline and tank linings

• Cross-hatch and pull-off adhesion testing

• Acceptable results based on specification

Day 8: Visual Inspection and Defect Identification

• Common coating defects (sags, pinholes, cratering, blistering)

• Visual standards and inspection records

• Coating failure case studies

• Inspection during each stage of surface and coating

Day 9: Specifications, Method Statements, and Inspection Plans

• Understanding project specifications

• Inspection Test Plans (ITP) and quality documentation

• Writing NCRs, punch lists, and acceptance criteria

• Method statements and checklists

Day 10: Reporting and Documentation

• Daily reports and inspection logbooks

• Photographic records and inspection sketches

• Coating condition assessments

• Final coating inspection report preparation

Day 11: Advanced Coating Standards and Field Inspection Practices

• Overview of International Standards and Codes

• Specialized Coating Systems and Inspection Challenges

• Third-Party Inspection, Audits, and Documentation

• Common Field Non-Conformities and Resolution Strategies

Day 12: Exam & Preparation

• Review of BGAS-CSWIP exam format and topics

• Sample theory questions and discussion

• Mock practical and theory exam under timed conditions

• Final Q&A, exam preparation checklist, and guidance for application process