Candidate Information

Practice and Policies

It is important that candidates have a combination of education, training, and experience so that they understand the principles and procedures of machinery vibration monitoring and diagnostics. Recommendations covered in ISO 18436:2 are briefly reviewed below.

Education

It is recommended, but not mandatory, that candidates for Category I and Category II have a secondary school education. Candidates for Category III and Category IV are expected to be able to manipulate simple algebraic equations, use a basic scientific calculator, and be computer literate. Completion of two or more years of study in mechanical technology or mechanical engineering is also recommended at these levels.

Training Hours

To be eligible for the certification examination candidates shall provide evidence of the successful completion of formal training (provided by a training body that conforms to the requirements of ISO 18436-3), which has been based on the Body of Knowledge for each category. Training should take the form of formal lectures, demonstrations, trainer specified practical exercises, and/or distance controlled self-study.  Any distance self-study by the candidate will be assessed by the trainer for evidence of adequate knowledge acquisition before other forms or form of training commence.  Practical exercises shall follow practical skills and knowledge training and be assessed by the trainer. 

Training time shall meet the minimum requirements in Table 1 below:

Table 1 – Minimum Training Hours

Sources of technological information are listed in the Certification Handbook.

Experience

To be eligible for the certification examination candidates shall provide evidence of experience in the field of machinery condition monitoring and diagnostics and electrical and mechanical technologies. The minimum recommended experience requirements can be found in Table 2 below:

Table 2 – Minimum Recommended Experience in Months

Examinations

Candidates are required to answer a number of multiple choice questions based on the topics in ISO 18436:2, Annex A and job analyses conducted by the Institute’s Certification Committee. The topics are summarized for each category in the Body of Knowledge. Questions selected from databases are of a practical nature and cover the concepts, principles and applications necessary to conduct machinery vibration measurements. Mathematical calculations are required as is a capability to interpret tables, plots, and charts as given in the sample questions found in the Certification Handbook.

Table 3 – Exam Details by Category

Pertinent equations are supplied for the closed-book examinations and reference materials are not permitted in the examination room. All calculations must be completed on the examination. Pens, pencils and a scientific calculator must be brought for examinations in all categories. For detailed instructions, contact the Institute at (630) 654-2254 or review the information on the Institute’s Web site.