Level 3 Certification

All new candidates for the examination must register online. All forms must be received by the BSSM office at least 5 weeks before the date of the examination.

Registrations for examination are confirmed after a review by the Chairman of the Certification Committee. Each registered candidate is then provided with a sample practical examination paper, a sample written paper, and the bank of questions for the written examination.

Most candidates chose to attend the course, pre-exam seminar and examination as a complete package.

Stress Analysis and Load Measurement Course (3 day)

The Stress Analysis and Load Measurement course provides instruction on the siting of strain gauges and the choice of gauge systems; it covers strain measurement, the correction of measured data, the determination of stress and yield load, the use of full-bridge circuits, the principal features of common load cells and the refinement of the bridge circuit.

The course uses lectures and hands-on experience to provide participants with a deeper understanding of strain measurement, in order to improve the accuracy of data they use in the determination of stress levels and critical loads in structural components, and to appreciate design features incorporated in devices used to measure load. Previous experience with strain gauges is essential.

• A basic section, containing questions based on general knowledge related to
  (a) component behaviour and
  (b) methods of strain/stress analysis
• A section containing questions based on the use of strain gauges

• Education and training
• Experience in the analysis of strain and stress
• Understanding and breadth of knowledge of strain measurement and stress analysis methods
• Responsibility for gauge installations and test programmes
• Supervisory experience

The candidate is expected to submit a summary of relevant work done over a period of around two years. At the interview candidates normally use additional supporting material such as photographs, drawings, graphs, models, samples and components.

The award is valid for 5 years. 

At the end of each 5 year period, certification can be renewed by either completing a practical test and submitting a review of recent strain measurement and related experience, or using the Credit Scheme, which is described in the Certification document. The practical test will include design of tests and gauge installations, inspection of gauge installations, measurements, calculations, and the consideration of alternative methods. Candidates will normally do the tasks at their workplace, under the supervision of a senior colleague, who will be required to confirm the candidate’s experience and that the renewal tasks were done by the candidate. There is not be a limit on the time taken to do the tasks.

Candidates applying to renew their certification and those making use of the credit scheme should also complete the registration form.