The Importance of Third-Party Radiographic Film Interpretation & Auditing
- Don Speake
- Sep 16
- 2 min read
Radiographic testing (RT) is one of the most powerful tools in the NDT industry. But simply taking the film isn’t enough, proper interpretation and auditing are critical to ensure safety, quality, and compliance with industry standards.
At EchoTech NDT Solutions, we provide independent, third-party radiographic film interpretation and auditing to help our clients maintain confidence in their inspection programs.
Why Third-Party Interpretation Matters
When film interpretation and acceptance decisions are handled internally, there’s always the risk of:
Bias: Production schedules or internal pressure may influence decision-making.
Missed indications: A second set of expert eyes can catch what the first pass missed.
Audit failures: Inconsistent documentation can lead to rework or lost contracts.
By using a third-party Level III–led team, you add an extra layer of objectivity, compliance, and peace of mind.
Compliance is More Than Just a Checkbox
Standards like ASME, AWS, and API require proper documentation, procedure compliance, and interpretation by qualified personnel. If a regulatory body or client audits your program, they’ll expect to see:
Certified personnel per ASNT SNT-TC-1A or NAS 410
Approved and controlled RT procedures
Documented evidence of film interpretation and acceptance criteria
Traceable records of audits and reviews
A third-party audit ensures your entire process aligns with the requirements — before someone else points out a problem.
Benefits of Partnering with EchoTech
Unbiased interpretation – We work for quality, not production quotas
Expert Level III oversight – ASNT-certified personnel guiding every decision
Audit-ready documentation – So you pass reviews with confidence
Reduced liability – Independent validation helps protect your company
Cost savings – Catching issues early prevents costly repairs or rejected welds
Serving Aviation, Industrial, and Utility Clients
We provide RT film interpretation and auditing services for:
Aerospace & MRO facilities (NAS 410 programs)
Oil & gas pipeline construction (ASME B31.3 compliance)
Structural fabrication & power generation
Municipal infrastructure projects
Bottom line: Independent review isn’t just “nice to have”—it’s the key to compliance, quality, and integrity in your inspection program.



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