The use of RQIs is a significant departure from normal practice in industrial radiology because it is not a standard design and is dependent on the application, material, and process and therefore cannot be a simple plaque or wire. The use of an RQI provides documented evidence that radiologic images have the level of quality necessary to reveal those nonconformances for which the parts are being examined by ensuring adequate spatial resolution and contrast sensitivity in the areas of interest.

Where conventional IQIs conforming to Practice E 747 or E 1025 can be used effectively, those practices should be followed.

1.1 This practice covers the radiological examination of unique materials or processes, or both, for which conventionally designed image quality indicators (IQIs), such as those described in Practices E 747 and E 1025, may be inadequate in controlling the quality and repeatability of the radiological image.

1.2 Where appropriate, representative image quality indicators (RQIs) may also represent criteria levels of the acceptance or rejection of images of discontinuities.

1.3 This practice is applicable to most radiological methods of examination.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.