The section for certification applications is currently unavailable. We are currently preparing it.

PERSONNEL CERTIFICATION

Verification and official confirmation that individuals meet the requirements for knowledge and skills in their profession.

The introduction of personnel certification has strategic importance for both organizations and individuals, especially in fields where high demands are placed on quality, safety, and responsibility.

  • Ensures professional competence of workers
  • Increases the quality and safety of performed work
  • Meets legislative and normative requirements
  • Enhances the credibility and competitiveness of the company
  • Motivates and develops employees

Certification exams are conducted in accordance with:

  • EN ISO/IEC 17024:2013
  • ČSN EN 1591-4:2014 Flanges and flange connections – Part 4: Qualification of the professional competence of personnel for the assembly of bolted connections in pressure equipment in critical applications and related directives.


    • Link to the valid certification scheme: link will be provided here

    Conditions for obtaining certification:

    We provide personnel certification in the category of individuals:

    • Bolted Joint Mechanic
    • Responsible Bolted Joint Technician

    Assessment process:

    Registration for the exam:
    By submitting an application form and questionnaire along with the necessary documents declaring relevant education, experience, or training. After proper review, the exam date will be confirmed.

    Certification Schemes meet the conditions of openness:

    • is accessible to all potential applicants who meet the technical and organizational requirements
    • does not discriminate against any participant (e.g., based on membership in a specific association, size of the organization, geographical location, etc.)
    • has transparent rules, procedures, and criteria that are publicly known and predefined
    • allows continuous access to new applicants, not just a limited closed circle of companies
    • we allow the sharing of certification schemes through a contractual agreement with our collaborating partners

    Requirements for the exam:

    Tab. 1 ČSN EN 1591-4:
    Category of MSS Personnel Requirement
    Educational Attainment Completed basic education
    Required Experience
    1. Experience in the field of bolted joints:
      • practical and theoretical training as part of an apprenticeship or similar craft training based on the curriculum of ČSN EN 1591-4 (submission of training documentation).
      • on-the-job practical instruction with experienced mechanics without formal theoretical training (submission of documentation proving 2 years of relevant professional experience).
    2. Without experience: Completion of training (with a practical scope of min. 8 hours of theoretical instruction and 8 hours of practical instruction according to ČSN EN 1591-4 (submission of documentation proving relevant training)).
    Practical Knowledge MSS must acquire the necessary skills in their employment, or they can obtain them:
    • Through practical and theoretical training as part of an apprenticeship, or similar craft training.
    • Through on-the-job practical instruction while working with experienced mechanics without formal theoretical training.
    Training Requirements MSS must undergo training covering at least all types of bolted joints in pressure-loaded, safety-relevant systems, across all relevant pressure classes, dimensions, and operating parameters. If MSS are expected to work at various worksites, the content of the demonstrative examples must be expanded accordingly.
    • MSS who have completed training designed for the needs of a specific company must submit proof of having completed the relevant training.
    • MSS who have obtained general education or similar professional knowledge without explicit adaptation to the needs of a specific company must undergo general training before their second employment to prove sufficient competence.
    • MSS who have acquired their skills without formal theoretical instruction must undergo training in general skills and pass a corresponding examination before their second employment. Completion of the training must be documented in writing by examination committees authorized by the training provider.
    To obtain a certificate for a higher qualification level, it is necessary to first submit a certificate for the basic qualification level.
    Tab. 3 and Tab. 4 ČSN EN 1591-4:
    Category of MSS Personnel Requirement
    Educational Attainment Completed basic education and holding a certificate of at least qualification level Tab. 1.
    Required Experience
    1. Experience in the field of bolted joints:
      • practical and theoretical training as part of an apprenticeship or similar craft training based on the curriculum of ČSN EN 1591-4 (submission of training documentation).
      • on-site experience as a supervisor of bolted joint mechanics (submission of documentation proving 2 years of relevant professional experience).
    2. Without experience: Completion of training (with a practical scope of min. 8 hours of theoretical instruction and 8 hours of practical instruction according to ČSN EN 1591-4 (submission of documentation proving relevant training)).
    Attainment of Qualification Level according to ČSN EN 1591-4 Tab. 1
    Practical Knowledge MSS must acquire the necessary skills in their employment, or they can obtain them:
    • Through practical and theoretical training as part of an apprenticeship, or similar craft training
    • Through on-the-job practical instruction while working with experienced mechanics without formal theoretical training
    Training Requirements The relevant curriculum must at least cover all types of bolted joints in pressure-loaded systems that MSS will encounter, across all classes, in all operating parameters, and the content of the demonstrative examples must be adequately expanded to cover the most frequent cases.
    • MSS who have completed training designed for the needs of a specific company and have acquired the necessary skills including sufficient practical training must submit proof of having completed the relevant training before their second employment.
    • MSS who have obtained general education or similar craft training must undergo training before their second employment to prove sufficient competence.
    • MSS who have acquired their skills without formal theoretical instruction must undergo training in general skills, pass a corresponding written examination to demonstrate competence before their second employment. Completion of the training must be documented in writing by examination committees authorized by the training provider.
    Certification Scheme: Category of persons: Responsible Bolted Connection Technician (RBCT)
    Scope of certification Qualification levels according to Table 11 of EN 1591-4.
    Job description and tasks The RBCT must be able to create work instructions for the BCM (Bolted Connection Mechanic) with an emphasis on the safety rules of the given workplace and take into account the health and safety risks of the proposed work procedure in a specific environment.
    Professional competence requirements The RBCT must hold the basic qualification level – Table 1 and all qualification levels for which they are responsible at the given workplace.
    Abilities The task of the RBCT is to plan, manage, and supervise the activities of the BCM.
    Necessary prerequisites Knowledge of the safety rules issues of all qualification levels for which they are responsible at the given workplace (min. Table 1 of EN 1591-4).
    Code of conduct Responsibility, knowledge, and requirement from the BCM of all safety rules and provisions relating to work in local conditions.
    Criteria for initial certification
    1. Completed basic education and be a certificate holder of at least the qualification level of Table 1.
    2. Experience in the field of bolted connections:
      • practical and theoretical training as part of apprenticeship education or similar craft training based on the EN 1591-4 syllabus (submission of proof of training).
      • on-site experience as a supervisor of bolted connection mechanics (submission of proof of 2 years of relevant professional practice).
    3. Without practice: Completion of training: Within the scope of practice min. 8 hours of theoretical teaching and 8 hours of practical teaching according to EN 1591-4 (submission of proof of relevant training (listed on the PCB list of training providers on the website).
    Criteria for recertification Submission of a valid certificate and fulfillment of the requirements for initial certification.

    In the event of failure in the exam during recertification, it is necessary to undergo full training.
    Assessment methods for initial certification
    • Successful passing of the theoretical exam.
    • Successful passing of the practical exam: During the practical part of the exam, demonstrate that the required knowledge, skills, and abilities were acquired during the actual performance of work on simulators and that the BCM knows how to use them in accordance with work procedures.
    Assessment methods for recertification
    • Successful passing of the theoretical exam.
    • Successful passing of the practical exam: During the practical part of the exam, demonstrate that the required knowledge, skills, and abilities were acquired during the actual performance of work on simulators and that the BCM knows how to use them in accordance with work procedures.
    Methods and criteria regarding surveillance
    1. Regular surveillance: The certificate holder shall provide information about their activities in the form of a written or electronic report (information on complaints about the worker's performance, interruption of work activity and other facts that could affect the certification process) (at a set frequency of once a year (i.e., 5 times during the validity of the certification).
    2. Extraordinary surveillance: Extraordinary surveillance is carried out on the basis of a notification of the holder's misconduct resulting from the conditions of the certification process or professional misconduct in the certified area (this involves an investigation of the facts).
    Criteria for suspension and withdrawal of certification
    • If the certificate holder has had a break in work with bolted connections longer than 6 months, the certificate must be withdrawn.
    • If there are special reasons to question abilities, skills, or knowledge when using bolted flange connections.
    • If a violation of certification requirements by the holder is proven, the certificate must be withdrawn.
    • The certificate holder is obliged to submit a report/notification once a year (by mail/electronically) about complaints or other facts related to performance within the scope of certification no later than 30 days from the discovery of this fact or a change in connection with the interruption of practice (i.e., min. 5 times during the validity of the certification).
    Criteria for changing the scope or level of certification When changing the scope or level of certification, the applicant must meet the established criteria for a higher level of qualification (Table 3, Table 4). However, they must always be a holder of the basic qualification level according to Table 1.
    Special needs The PCB may, to a limited extent, accommodate special needs in accordance with EN ISO/IEC 17024; no other specific requirements are defined.
    National regulations —
    Training requirements
    • Training is required if the applicant does not meet the criteria for initial certification, i.e., relevant education or practice.
    • Training must meet the requirements of EN 1591-4 according to the relevant tables, namely min. 8 hours of theoretical and 8 hours of practical training.
    • In the event of failure in the exam during recertification, training must be implemented.
    Current dates for training and certification exams: link will be here

    Review and decision on certification:

    To receive a positive certification decision, it is necessary to meet the percentage score requirements in both the theoretical and practical parts of the exams:

    Theoretical Part Evaluation Table
    Evaluation Percentage Range
    Passed 100 – 80 %
    Retake Examination On-Site 79 – 60 %
    Failed < 60 %
    Practical Part Evaluation Table
    Evaluation Percentage Range
    Passed 100 – 80 %
    Retake Examination On-Site 79 – 60 %
    Failed < 60 %

    Use of the certificate:

    The certificate holder is entitled to:

    • Refer to the certification/certificate in business and private dealings and all related correspondence.
    • Present the certificate during professional, business, and other negotiations.
    • Mention the certification in connection with their education and qualifications.

    The certificate holder must not:

    • Use or refer to the certification/certificate beyond the scope of the certification.
    • Refer to the certification if the certification statement has been revised/withdrawn (the client is required to return the original statement) and must use the new one in case of revision.
    • Use the certification reference on products, product-related documents, or packaging, especially not in a way that could mislead the customer into thinking it is a product certification.
    • Use the certification reference on test reports, calibration certificates, or inspection reports.

    The certificate holder is required to:

    • Notify AUDISO a.s. of all facts (complaints) related to activities within the scope of the certification using the record "P PQZ 80 Certificate Holder's Report" no later than 30 days after discovering the fact.
    • Respond to requests from AUDISO a.s. regarding the discovery of facts that could affect the certification decision (cooperate in complaint investigations).

    Definition of personnel certification

    Personnel certification is a process in which an independent certification authority verifies and officially confirms that an individual meets predefined requirements for knowledge, skills, and competencies in a specific profession or field of activity.


    The certification of a bolted joint mechanic is a process that verifies and confirms that a person performing assembly, disassembly, and tightening of bolted joints in industrial or energy operations has the appropriate knowledge, skills, and qualifications to carry out these activities safely, correctly, and in a controlled manner.


    The certification of a responsible bolted joint technician is intended for personnel who not only perform but also design, inspect, and document the bolted joint tightening process in accordance with technical and safety requirements. The certification of a technical specialist is typically a higher level than that of a mechanic and assumes industry experience and technical education.


    Personnel certification is carried out in accordance with EN ISO/IEC 17024:2013


    Conformity assessment – General requirements for bodies operating certification of persons, in connection with the requirements of EN 1591-4:2014 Flanges and their joints – Part 4: Qualification of personnel competency in the assembly of bolted joints on pressure equipment in critical applications and other related directives.

    Eight principles of personnel certification

    1) Impartiality

    2) Competence

    3) Transparency

    4) Standardization

    5) Traceability and Documentation

    6) Validity Period and Recertification

    7) Professional Conduct

    8) Continuous Improvement and Updates

    Why implement personnel certification

    The introduction of personnel certification has strategic importance for both organizations and individuals, especially in fields where high demands are placed on quality, safety, and responsibility. Introducing personnel certification is an investment in the quality, safety, reputation of the company, and the professional growth of the people who are responsible for the work results.


    1) Ensuring Professional Competence of Workers

    • Certification confirms that the employee has verified knowledge and skills necessary for the given activity.
    • It helps eliminate the risk that work is performed by incompetent or inexperienced personnel.

    2) Increasing the Quality and Safety of Performed Work

    • A certified worker adheres to technological and safety procedures, which reduces the risk of failures, accidents, or breakdowns.
    • Especially important in fields such as:
      • energy sector (e.g., nuclear)
      • petrochemicals
      • work with pressure systems and pipe joints

    3) Fulfilling Legislative and Normative Requirements

    • Some standards (e.g., EN 1591-4) or customers require personnel certification as a condition for accessing a workplace or performing specific activities.
    • It helps the company meet the requirements of audits, inspections, and state controls.

    4) Increasing the Credibility and Competitiveness of the Company

    • A company with certified personnel is more trustworthy to customers and partners.
    • It allows the company to bid for contracts that explicitly require certification (e.g., in tenders).

    5) Standardization and Transparency of Skills

    • Certification introduces a unified system for evaluating knowledge and practice, which facilitates human resource management.
    • It enables the monitoring and documentation of individual qualifications within the team.

    6) Motivation and Development of Employees

    • The introduction of certification is part of the professional growth system.
    • Employees are more motivated to improve their abilities when their expertise is officially recognized.

    Find out more from IAF publications in Czech and English version:

    Who is personnel certification intended for?

    Personnel certification for screw joint mechanics and responsible screw joint technicians is intended for workers involved in the assembly, inspection, maintenance, and responsibility for the safe execution of screw joints, especially in industrial sectors with high demands on safety, quality, and reliability.

    1) Screw joint mechanic

    •  Assembly workers and maintenance personnel who physically perform:
      • assembly and disassembly of screw joints
      • tightening using manual or hydraulic tools
      • preparation of gaskets, flanges, and other joint components

       

    • Workers from external assembly and service companies operating in:

      • energy sector (e.g. nuclear, thermal, hydro power plants)
      • petrochemical industry
      • production and maintenance of pressure equipment
      • mechanical engineering and heavy industr
     2) Responsible screw joint technician
    • Engineers, foremen, technical supervisors, quality inspectors, and other technical personnel who:
      • design or approve assembly procedures
      • supervise the work of mechanics
      • check tightening torques or forces
      • evaluate the quality and safety of joints
      • manage documentation and ensure compliance with standards

    Benefits of personnel certification

    1) For employees (certified individuals):

    • Official confirmation of qualification – proof that the person meets standardized professional requirements according to EN 1591-4.
    • Increased professional value – better position in the job market, higher competitiveness.
    • Career growth opportunities – certification is often a necessary condition for higher or specialized positions.
    • Mobility – recognized certification (especially according to international standards) allows work abroad or for foreign companies.
    • Greater responsibility and prestige – especially in the case of a responsible technician position.

    2) For employers:

    • Proof of workers' professional competence – easy demonstration of qualifications during audits, contracts, or inspections (e.g. in energy or petrochemistry).
    • Ensuring quality and safety – reducing the risk of errors and accidents caused by unprofessional assembly.
    • Meeting legislative and contractual requirements – some contracts or operations require certified personnel.
    • Greater credibility with customers – a certified team enhances the company's reputation.
    • Lower costs for repairs and downtime – thanks to properly performed work the first time.

    3) For customers, investors, and government authorities:

    • Guarantee of professional work execution – confidence that the work was carried out by qualified personnel according to applicable standards.
    • Higher level of safety – especially for pressure equipment, piping, technological units, etc.
    • Transparency and traceability – clear documentation of who performed the intervention and how qualified they were.

    Training Providers:

    TKU s.r.o.