What is the required qualification for welders according to AWS D1.1?

The requirement for welders according to AWS D1.1 specifies that welders must be qualified to perform the welding processes described in the code. This qualification is achieved through the certified welder program, which ensures that welders have demonstrated their ability to produce welds that meet the accepted standards of quality and integrity. The certification process typically involves passing practical tests that assess their skill in various welding techniques and ensures they understand the requirements of the code.

A high school diploma is not a standardized requirement for welder qualification according to AWS D1.1; while education can be beneficial, the focus is primarily on the welding skills and proficiencies verified through certification. Industry experience alone does not guarantee that the welder can meet the specific qualifications outlined in the AWS D1.1 code, as it is the welder's proven skill in executing the required welding processes that is crucial. The notion that there is no specific qualification for welders contradicts the need for trained and certified individuals to maintain the quality and safety standards essential in structural welding applications. Thus, the correct answer underscores the necessity of a certified welder certification as a means of ensuring compliance with industry standards.