About the Scheme
In order to gain certification, a candidate must pass the APCS examination.
Painters who pass the examination receive an International Certificate in Aircraft Painter Competence.
The individual will also be entered onto the APCS register of certificated painters and be bound by a code of ethics.
Due to the ever-changing nature of the business it is a requirement that certificated personnel re-validate their qualification every three years. This keeps the painter updated on developments within the business. This process will be conducted online meaning there is no need for the individual to travel to the nearest APCS venue.
The scheme operates in line with ISO EN 17024:2012 Conformity assessment - General requirements for bodies operating certification of persons.
Our courses also meet the criteria of SEMAER 233, 234, 235, 236 & 237
Routes to certification
There are 3 routes to certification.
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1 Study at one of a number of college providers. This is for individuals who are new to the industry and have no prior painting experience.
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2 Short training course and examination. This is for candidates who have an ability to paint but may not be familiar with the processes and dangers in painting aircraft.
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3 Examination attempt. This is for experienced aircraft painters. Please note this route is only allowed if the candidate meets the prerequisites as laid down in the rules of the scheme.
Examination
The APCS examination is a rigorous test designed by experts in aircraft painting and approved by examiners from international personnel certification schemes.
The examination consists of theoretical and practical assessments relating to aircraft and aircraft component preparation and painting.​
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Health and Safety
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Paint shop safety
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Aircraft safety
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Masking and Paint removal
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Masking and Surface Preparation
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Environmental Condition checks
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Paint defects
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Repairs
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Preparation of composite materials
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Paint storage
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Paint mixing
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Paint application
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Paint equipment maintenance
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Quality control
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Records
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Viscosity checks
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Defect identification
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Spray gun maintenance and use
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Masking
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Surface preparation
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Sample Identification
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Quality control checks