CWB certification explained (for people hiring a welder)
If you're hiring a welder for structural or industrial work in Canada, you'll probably hear about the CWB. Here's what it means in plain language.
What is the CWB?
The Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB Group) is the organization that certifies welding companies and qualifies welders to Canadian Standards Association (CSA) standards.
The standards you'll hear about
- CSA W47.1: certification of companies that fusion-weld steel.
- CSA W47.2: the same, for aluminum.
- CSA W59: the welded steel construction code that sets out how structural welds are designed and made.
Company certification and welder tickets
A company certified under W47.1 has its welding procedures approved and a qualified welding supervisor or engineer, and its welders hold CWB tickets for specific processes and positions. A welder having a ticket isn't the same as the company being certified.
When to ask for it
- Structural steel, beams, columns, stairs and guards on commercial buildings, often required by the engineer or permit
- Industrial and mining sites, which often require it in contractor prequalification
- Many government and institutional contracts
For most farm, trailer and general repairs, certification may not be required. Ask anyway if you want reassurance about quality. You can ask a provider for their certificate and check it with the CWB.
This is general information, not engineering or legal advice. Check the requirements for your specific project with your engineer, building department or site owner.