What is the difference between repair and rework?

• A. Repair and rework are the same.
• B. Repair fixes a defect; rework fixes the weld with new filler.
• C. Repair is only cosmetic; rework is the entire weld replaced.
• D. A repair fixes a defect; rework redoes the weld; both require authorization per QA.

Answer: (D)

The key idea here is how you handle a defect in a weld and who must approve the action. A repair is fixing the defect in the existing weld without removing the whole weld or changing the joint layout—it's about correcting the problem within the allowable methods and limits. Rework, on the other hand, means you must remove the faulty weld and redo it from scratch according to the approved welding procedure. Because both paths involve nonconforming work, they must be authorized by QA to ensure the method, materials, and scope meet the project requirements. After either action, the weld typically goes through inspection or testing to verify it now meets the specifications.