JC Auditors (JCA) is thrilled to announce the addition of Herman Potgieter to its team as ISO 3834 Lead Auditor. Herman, recognised as a National Expert in welding, joins JCA with over 44 years of extensive experience in welding technology across Southern Africa. His industry expertise and technical proficiency will allow JCA to provide the welding sector with unparalleled levels of insight, professionalism and support.

Herman’s exceptional career in welding began in response to a shortage of expertise in handling exotic materials and equipment in South Africa’s mining and fabrication sectors. Early on, he seized the opportunity to expand his knowledge as part of the Research and Development team at South Africa’s largest steel producer, gaining invaluable insights into the applications and challenges of welding diverse materials. With a background in Metallurgical Engineering (HND Met Eng) and a certification from the International Institute of Welding (IIW), Herman belongs to a select group of elite Welding Engineers and Technologists qualified to serve as welding authorities. His product and technical knowledge, refined over four decades, will bring significant value to JCA and the clients they serve in the welding sector.

As a well-respected figure in the welding community, Herman’s expertise spans quality assurance processes, including quality planning, document control, method statements, client liaison and sub-contractor management. His experience in audits, procedure generation and approvals, failure analysis and metallurgical consultations makes him a powerful addition to the JCA team. Known within the industry as a top-tier welding expert, having previously served as CEO of SAIW Certification, his technical skills will greatly enhance JCA’s service offering for clients needing guidance and assurance in welding quality and standards.

With Herman on board, JC Auditors can now offer an integrated audit approach that combines ISO 3834 with other standards, such as ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001. This approach allows welding industry clients to streamline their certification processes, achieving compliance with multiple standards in a single audit. This integration not only saves time but also supports clients in aligning their operations with international best practices across quality, environmental and occupational health and safety standards.

“We are absolutely excited to welcome Herman to the JC Auditors family,” says Oliver Naidoo, JCA Managing Director. “His unparalleled technical knowledge and deep commitment to quality make him an invaluable asset to the South African welding sector, which will now benefit from his insight and the JCA integrated audit approach.”

Herman Potgieter’s addition marks a new chapter for JC Auditors in serving the welding industry. His recognised expertise and dedication to excellence are perfectly aligned with JCA’s commitment to providing best-in-class auditing services. Together, JC Auditors and Herman Potgieter are set to elevate standards and support the growth and innovation of the welding sector in South Africa.