What type of certification typically follows visual inspection?

Visual certification is the appropriate type of certification that typically follows visual inspection. This process verifies that the visual inspection has been conducted in accordance with the relevant codes, standards, and specifications, confirming that the inspected welds meet the necessary quality and safety requirements.

Visual certification serves as an official record of the inspection results, demonstrating that the welds have been assessed and are acceptable. This certification is crucial in various industries, as it helps ensure structural integrity and compliance with regulatory standards. It is a key component in the overall quality control process, often necessary before proceeding with further testing or approval of welded constructions.

The other options refer to different aspects of the welding process and certification. Weld procedure specifications outline the methods for making welds and are important but come before visual certification. Weld performance qualification tests the welder's ability to produce acceptable welds, which is also conducted prior to visual certification. Weld joint design focuses on the engineering aspect of how welds are formed and joined but is unrelated to the certification process after visual inspection. Thus, visual certification stands out as the most fitting certification that follows the visual inspection stage.