When you hire a welder or fabrication shop for a structural project, one of the first questions you should ask is about their certifications. In Canada, the Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB) is the gold standard for welding quality assurance. Understanding what CWB certification means helps you make an informed decision about who works on your project.
What is CWB Certification?
The Canadian Welding Bureau certifies both individual welders and fabrication companies. For welders, certification means they have passed practical welding tests in specific positions, processes, and materials — demonstrating they can produce welds that meet structural codes. For companies, CWB certification means the shop has a documented quality management system, uses approved welding procedures, employs certified welders, and undergoes regular audits.
Why CWB Matters for Your Project
CWB certification is not just a piece of paper — it has real implications for your project. For structural work, most building codes in British Columbia require that structural steel welding be performed by CWB-certified welders using approved procedures. Insurance companies may require proof of certified welding for claims on structural failures. If you ever sell your property or equipment, certified welding adds value and provides documentation of quality.
What About Non-Structural Work?
Not every welding job requires CWB certification. Decorative metalwork, light-duty brackets, furniture, and non-structural repairs can be done by experienced welders without formal certification. However, even for non-structural work, hiring a certified welder means you are getting someone who has proven their skills under testing conditions. At T & C Fabrication, we apply the same quality standards to every job, whether it is a certified structural repair or a custom fire pit.
Questions to Ask Your Welder
Before hiring any welding or fabrication service, ask these questions: What certifications do you hold? What welding processes can you perform (MIG, TIG, stick, flux-core)? Do you have approved welding procedures for the material and thickness involved? Can you provide documentation of the completed welds? What is your warranty on welding work? A professional shop will answer these questions readily.
T & C Fabrication provides certified welding and fabrication services across Vancouver Island. Call Ted at 250-202-1643 to discuss your project requirements.
