Welding equipment suppliers are devising a code of practice that will give their bodyshop customers clear pricing and better information.

The first meeting of the Automotive Welding Advisory Group (AWAG) agreed a framework for the code. The code will be mandatory to all members of AWAG, which currently includes Stanners Equipment, Wielander & Schill UK, Wilkinson Star, Celette UK, Global Jig, Automotive Equipment and Spanesi Automotive.

It covers issues such as clear price marking and discount structure details, keeping customers informed of product recalls and specification changes, informing them of any delays in supply, and implementing a robust complaints procedure.

AWAG chairman Gerry Braddock said: “It has become apparent that welding equipment is being inspected and repaired by companies that do not have OEM trained engineers, and who use non-OEM parts. This is causing equipment failures and loss of specification that could jeopardise the integrity of body repairs.

“Attendees agreed that they would only service and repair their own equipment, and that if any other company decides to repair these machines they must first be OEM trained, and use OEM parts.

“PAS125 indicates the requirement for calibration or verification of all measuring equipment. Inverter type resistance spot welders are calibrated at manufacture with all parameters installed during production.”