Fabricator certification demonstrates that your facility meets recognized standards for welding quality, safety and oversight. Several programs are available depending on project scope and jurisdiction. This overview compares the most common options.

LADBS Approved Fabricator Program

• Authority: Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS).
• Scope: Authorizes fabricators to perform structural steel fabrication on projects within jurisdictions that recognize the program, often waiving special inspection requirements.
• Key Requirements: Written quality control manual; qualified WPS, PQR and welder certifications; material traceability and MTR logs; welder identity logs; in‑house inspection reports and weld maps; regular third‑party audits.
• Strengths: Widely accepted by southern California building departments and engineers; helps streamline project approvals.

AWS Certified Welding Fabricator (CWF)

• Authority: American Welding Society under AWS QC17.
• Scope: Applicable to fabrication of pressure vessels, structural members, machinery and other welded products where AWS standards are referenced.
• Key Requirements: Documented welding quality system; qualified WPS, PQR and WPQ for relevant processes; evidence of welder training; calibrated equipment; system for NDT when required; periodic surveillance audits.
• Strengths: Recognized across industries and regions; not limited to a specific jurisdiction; demonstrates commitment to AWS best practices.

AISC Certified Fabricator

• Authority: American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC).
• Scope: Covers fabrication of structural steel for buildings and bridges under categories such as BU (Building), ABR (Bridge), SBR (Simple Bridge) and MBR (Major Bridge).
• Key Requirements: Comprehensive quality management system meeting AISC 207; documented procedures for contract review, design connections, material control, welding, bolting and inspection; periodic on‑site audits.
• Strengths: Highly respected by owners, engineers and general contractors; demonstrates the highest level of quality management for structural steel fabrication.

Choosing the Right Program

The best certification depends on your markets and project types. Local fabricators working primarily on southern California building projects may benefit most from LADBS approval. Firms serving diverse markets or seeking nationwide recognition may pursue AWS CWF or AISC certification. Whichever program you choose, certification requires commitment to documented procedures, qualified personnel and regular audits.

How We Can Help

The California Welding Institute can assist with developing WPS and qualification records, writing quality manuals, training personnel and preparing for certification audits. Contact us to discuss the path that fits your fabrication business.