Hydrogen Pipelines Welding Inspectors
As hydrogen (H₂) becomes a cornerstone of the global transition to a low-carbon economy, the safe construction and inspection of hydrogen pipelines is critical. To ensure the integrity, safety, and compliance of hydrogen infrastructure, Welding Greece Institute (WGI) has developed the Hydrogen Pipeline Welding Inspection Training Program under the INSPIRE Project.
This specialized training responds to the urgent need for qualified welding inspectors capable of addressing the unique challenges posed by hydrogen in pipeline systems.
Program Overview
The Hydrogen Pipeline Welding Inspection Training is designed as a modular specialization within the existing European Welding Inspector (EWI) framework. It equips certified welding inspectors with the hydrogen-specific knowledge, skills, and competencies required for modern energy infrastructure projects.
Key focus areas include:
- Materials behavior under hydrogen exposure
- Health, safety, and environmental (HSE) risks
- Protective coatings in hydrogen degradation
- Advanced non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques
- Hydrogen-specific welding documentation and defect assessment
Structure of the Training
The program consists of two independent Competence Units (CUs) that can be taken separately or as a combined specialization:
CUA – H₂ Material Integrity and Safety
Focus:
- Hydrogen embrittlement mechanisms and material compatibility
- HSE risks: flammability, jet explosions, leak detection
- Protective coatings and their role in hydrogen degradation
Learning outcomes:
- Understand hydrogen’s impact on pipeline materials
- Recognize hydrogen-related safety risks
- Apply protective measures and inspection practices
Duration: 3.5 teaching hours | 7 workload hours
CUB – Inspection and Testing for Hydrogen Pipelines
Focus:
- NDT methods adapted for hydrogen service (e.g., helium leak, pressure decay tests)
- Hydrogen-specific welding documentation (WPS, PQR, WPQ)
- Defect assessment and acceptance criteria (ASME B31.12, ISO, API standards)
Learning outcomes:
- Perform and interpret NDT techniques for hydrogen pipelines
- Review welding and inspection documentation for compliance
- Assess defects according to ASME B31.12 and related standards
Duration: 3.5 teaching hours | 7 workload hours
Access Conditions
To ensure quality learning outcomes and safe application of knowledge, participants must hold at least one of the following:
- ISO 9712 Level 2 (NDT) or equivalent
- Certification under an ISO 17024-compliant welding inspection scheme
- Minimum EWF/IIW European/International Welding Inspector (EWI/IWI) – Basic Level
- Minimum EWF/IIW International/European Welding Specialist (IWS/EWS)
Why Choose This Training?
✔ Future-oriented specialization for hydrogen energy projects
✔ Blended training with AR-supported inspection simulations
✔ Industry-recognized certification aligned with ISO, ASME, IIW, and EWF standards
✔ Practical skills and safety knowledge for immediate application in hydrogen pipeline inspection The first pilot program will be implemented on April 2026, as part of the INSPIRE project , Co funded by the European Union.
