Welding Qualifications Explained – What You Need for Bodyshop Work

Welding Qualifications Explained – What You Need for Bodyshop Work

If you’re working in a vehicle bodyshop, welding isn’t just a skill — it’s a safety-critical part of modern vehicle repair. But what qualifications do you actually need to do the job legally and professionally?


At BWS Ltd, we help technicians and workshops across the UK understand and achieve the right welding certifications. Here’s a quick guide:


BS 4872 – Commonly used for MIG/MAG and TIG welding in light fabrication and repair. Ideal for bodyshop welders working on mild steel and non-structural components.


BS EN ISO 9606-1 – A higher-level coding test for structural welding, often required by insurers or for OEM-approved repairs. Some manufacturers use this coding for aluminium repairs.  BS EN ISO 9606-1 is often referred to as "coding" in welding circles. Its the highesdt form of welder qualification you can obtain, requiring Test House Macros, Bend and fracture tests for each of your samples welds. This incurs increased costings compared to BS 4872

Manufacturer Approval – Brands like VW, Tesla, or Jaguar Land Rover may require welders to complete their own training or use certified equipment.

BS 1140 – Commonly used for Resistance (spot ) welding it involve the production of a 5mm and 8mm spot weld by the technician observing the nugget diameter and burn ring diameters.

Welding Logbooks – Often requested as proof of regular practice to maintain certification. Although in a bodyshop this can be easily located due to the vehicle repair data naturally obtained in your job.


We offer training and guidance to help technicians pass these qualifications and stay compliant with PAS 125 and BS 10125 standards.


📞 Call 0161 223 1843 & 🌐 book online at www.basicwelding.co.uk to speak to our team about welding training and certification.

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