The QP 2 certification is a nationally recognized program that evaluates the capabilities of industrial paint contractors for their ability to safely remove and properly manage hazardous coating material in the field. These standards are considered to be the MINIMUM level of service and quality.

QP 2 builds on the standards and guidelines of QP 1 to further qualify the industrial contracting company in hazardous paint removal operations. Since QP 1 certification is a prerequisite for QP 2, certification for both can be completed at the same time. (AND is a good way to save $!)

QP 2 Certification requires demonstrated competence in four key areas:

• Management of Hazardous Paint Removal Projects

• Technical Capabilities Related to Hazardous Paint Removal

• Personnel Qualifications and Training

• Safety and Environmental Compliance Programs.

The Evaluation Process

The QP 2 evaluation process is the same as QP 1, except that the active job site MUST be a hazardous paint removal project with all of the protective measures in place and functioning.

Similar to QP 1, the QP 2 program guidelines are first evaluated through the required submittals that describe the contractor's procedures, practices and programs. Then an SSPC auditor performs an impartial active job site audit to verify the use of the submitted practices and programs.

The on-site audit criteria can be found in both the QP 2 Application and the Self-evaluation Checklist. Both can be found on the Lists, Forms & Applications web page.

SSPC suggests that the contractor perform a self-evaluation prior to submitting an application or scheduling the audit.

QP 2 Background

QP 2 was developed by consensus to meet the industry's need for better management and control on projects involving the removal of hazardous paint from structural steel in the field.

The QP 2 standard and certification were designed to build on the guidelines established in QP1, and provide facility owners with a means to evaluate the primary capability of industrial paint contractors specific to the needs of hazardous paint removal projects. This expansion program was first released in 1993.

SSPC QP 1, QP 2 and QP 3 are a part of SSPC Qualification Procedure Standards developed through the SSPC consensus process. Visit our Standards Store to purchase a copy.