Give the observation a location
A photograph of a weld without an identifier is hard to act on. Start with a drawing or weld map that connects each examined joint to the asset, member and side. Record whether the examination was before coating, after fabrication or on an in-service surface.
A scoped visual inspection can document visible weld profile, surface condition and selected dimensions. Define the criteria and the extent of examination before using terms such as acceptable or non-conforming. Visual examination does not establish internal weld soundness.
Record profile and measurements separately
Describe observed features such as undercut, overlap, visible surface openings, uneven profile or distortion using appropriate terminology. Identify where a gauge was used and which dimension was measured. A camera perspective can make a weld appear larger or smaller; do not infer precise dimensions from an unscaled image.
Compare measurements with the nominated weld requirement, where available. If the drawing is missing, record the observation without inventing a required size. A profile that appears smooth is not evidence of adequate penetration or fusion, and the relevant acceptance criteria may treat similar features differently for different weld categories.
Make photographs support the written record
Use an orientation view to show the connection and a detail view to show the finding. Include an appropriate scale where safe and useful, and retain the image reference in the findings register. Avoid obscuring the feature with arrows or labels; annotations can be added to a copy while the original remains available.
Lighting, viewing angle, cleanliness and coatings affect what can be seen. Glare may conceal a fine opening, while shadows can exaggerate a profile change. State whether a feature was confirmed visually at close range or observed from a restricted position.
Document the limits of access
Separate examined surfaces from concealed, obstructed or insufficiently prepared areas. The accessible face of a connection does not represent its hidden side. Remote viewing can add evidence, but image resolution and positioning may limit the details or measurements possible.
If the scope requires further NDT, identify the selected weld and purpose rather than requesting all methods without a reason. A surface indication might need a suitable surface technique, while an internal-flaw question may need ultrasonic examination if geometry permits. Keep those results linked to the visual record.
- Weld reference, examination date and fabrication or service stage.
- Observed feature and measured dimension, with units and location.
- Applicable drawing or criteria and any unresolved reference gap.
- Image references, inaccessible faces and follow-up questions.
Use the record through repair and handover
For a repair, retain the original observation, authorised repair detail and the subsequent examination record as separate entries. This makes it possible to see what changed and who reviewed it. Do not erase the original finding because the final surface looks different.
At handover, unresolved access limits and required follow-up should remain prominent. A visual weld report is one source of fabrication or condition evidence, not a substitute for all specified testing or an engineering capacity assessment. Clear records let the responsible reviewer distinguish what was observed from what remains unknown.