CRI Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CRI facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which of the following best describes a key competency required for digital radiography systems in CRI practice? → Strong analytical skills combined with effective communication and ethical judgment
2. Which type of radiation has the greatest penetrating power? → Gamma rays
3. In radiographic interpretation, an elongated slag inclusion running parallel to the weld axis is best described as which type of discontinuity? → Wagon tracks
4. Which agency sets safety standards for welding operations in the U.S.? → OSHA.
5. Per API 1104, what is the maximum allowable aggregate length of inadequate penetration (IP) in any continuous 12-inch length of pipeline weld? → 1 inch
6. What is the function of a welding helmet? → To shield the welder from UV rays and sparks.
7. What is the primary biological effect of concern from low-level, chronic radiation exposure to workers? → Stochastic effects such as cancer induction
8. On which side of the test object should the IQI preferably be placed according to most radiographic codes? → Source side of the object being radiographed
9. What does a transport index (TI) of 1.0 on a radioactive package indicate? → The dose rate at 1 meter is 0.1 mSv/hr
10. According to AWS D1.1, what is the maximum allowable length of an individual porosity indication in a complete joint penetration groove weld? → 3/8 inch (9.5 mm)
11. Which radiographic image characteristic is used to verify that adequate film-to-source geometry was maintained during pipe weld examination? → The IQI (penetrameter) essential wire or hole is visible on the radiograph
12. Which of the following best describes a key competency required for advanced imaging techniques in CRI practice? → Strong analytical skills combined with effective communication and ethical judgment
13. Which of the following best describes a key competency required for report writing & documentation in CRI practice? → Strong analytical skills combined with effective communication and ethical judgment
14. Which document must accompany a sealed radioactive source during transport by a radiographer? → Shipping paper with proper UN number and description
15. In pipeline girth weld radiography, what is the purpose of the 'back-scatter' lead marker ('B') placed behind the film? → To detect radiation scattered from behind the film that could degrade image quality
16. How can welding defects be minimized? → Using correct technique and settings.
17. What is the inverse square law relationship between distance and radiation intensity? → Intensity decreases with the square of distance
18. Why is proper ventilation important in welding? → To remove hazardous fumes.
19. What does spatter refer to in welding? → Molten metal droplets scattered around the weld.
20. Which defect appears as a dark area on radiographic film? → Porosity.
21. What condition defines a 'High Radiation Area' under NRC regulations? → Dose rate exceeds 1 mSv/hr at 30 cm
22. What is the characteristic of a proper weld bead? → Uniform width with smooth edges and good penetration.
23. A radiograph of a socket weld fitting shows a dark ring image concentric with the pipe. What does this indicate? → A gap between the pipe end and the socket bottom (crevice or improper fit-up)
24. A radiographer is working with an Ir-192 source. What is the approximate half-life of Ir-192? → 74 days
25. What personal protective equipment (PPE) is MOST effective at reducing gamma radiation exposure to a radiographer? → Distance and time management
26. On a hole-type IQI, what is the diameter of the 2T hole relative to the IQI thickness? → Equal to twice the IQI thickness
27. Which interpretation technique uses density variations to identify weld defects? → Radiographic interpretation.
28. What is the recommended action if a radiographer's personal dosimetry reading for a quarter approaches the investigational level set by the licensee? → Notify the RSO and investigate the cause
29. What is the annual occupational dose limit for the lens of the eye according to NRC regulations? → 150 mSv
30. Per API 1104, what action is required when a crack is found in a pipeline girth weld during radiographic examination? → The weld must be rejected regardless of crack length