Nine Common Challenges in Industrial Radiography and How to Overcome Them
Industrial radiography is a crucial service that ensures the integrity and safety of welds and structures. However, businesses that outsource this service sometimes encounter challenges that impact efficiency, accuracy, and satisfaction. At IIA Field Services, we understand these pain points and are committed to providing solutions that enhance your experience. What follows is a list of nine common problems, with answers for each of them.
1. Scheduling Conflicts
The most common frustration is the unavailability of radiography crews when needed. Delays in weld inspections can stall entire projects, leading to increased costs and missed deadlines. A reliable service provider must have flexible scheduling, a responsive dispatch team, and the capacity to handle last-minute requests.
2. Switching Radiography Technicians Mid-Job
Consistency is key in industrial radiography. When technicians are swapped out mid-job, customers face inefficiencies, including wasted time bringing new personnel up to speed, additional paperwork for certification verification, and trust issues with new techs’ judgment. Service providers must prioritize workforce stability and ensure seamless transitions if changes are unavoidable.
3. Incomplete or Inaccurate Reporting
Customers sometimes encounter incomplete examination reports, improperly filled-out technique sheets, and illegible writing. Poor documentation can lead to compliance issues and rework. A streamlined reporting process, including digital documentation and thorough technician training, can eliminate these errors.
4. Communication Breakdowns
Effective communication is essential for scheduling, staffing, invoicing, and reporting changes in real time. Miscommunications can lead to delays and misunderstandings. Service providers should implement clear communication protocols, utilizing mobile and digital reporting platforms to keep all stakeholders informed.
5. Film Quality and Correct “Calls”
Poor film quality and incorrect weld assessments can be another source of complaints. Inconsistent interpretations of radiographs create delays and disputes. Ensuring that only highly trained technicians perform assessments and that Level 3 experts are available for verification can greatly improve confidence in results.
6. Low Weld Production Rates
Some customers report inefficiencies, such as weak radiation sources leading to long exposure times, inexperienced technicians requiring additional training, and overall slow work performance. Providers must invest in high-quality sources, rigorous technician training, and productivity monitoring to enhance efficiency.
7. Radiography Crew Transfers Between Jobs
A customer employing a service provider might sometimes experience frustration when a hired crew is pulled mid-shift for another job, leaving work unfinished. This disrupts workflow and extends project timelines. Service providers must ensure adequate job planning and resource allocation to prevent these disruptions.
8. Invoicing Issues
Customers occasionally encounter late invoices, unexpected charges, incorrect job numbers, and over- or under-billing. The solution here is transparent pricing, accurate documentation, and timely invoicing. These practices build trust and streamline financial operations.
9. Safety and Compliance Concerns
Adhering to safety standards and industry regulations is non-negotiable. Some customers report concerns about improper safety protocols, inadequate personal protective equipment (PPE), or non-compliance with regulations. Service providers must enforce strict adherence to safety standards and ongoing training to mitigate risks.
Conclusion
Industrial radiography plays a vital role in ensuring structural integrity and safety, but common challenges can hinder its effectiveness. By addressing scheduling issues, maintaining consistent crews, improving reporting, enhancing communication, ensuring film quality, boosting productivity, preventing job disruptions, refining invoicing processes, and upholding safety standards, service providers can greatly enhance customer satisfaction. At IIA Field Services, we are committed to delivering top-tier radiography solutions with reliability, accuracy, and efficiency. Contact us today to learn how we can support your next project!
