Guidelines for Interpretation of Published Data on Probability of Detection for Nondestructive Testing

This report provides general guidelines for the interpretation of published data on probability of detection (POD) for nondestructive testing. An overview is provided of the different types of probability of detection data, methods for statistical analysis and the assumptions that may be embedded in these analyses. Four key issues have been identified which need to be addressed when assessing the applicability of published probability of detection trial data to a new nondestructive testing application. Specific consideration should be given to the system boundary, which defines those elements of the inspection process and other factors potentially affecting inspection reliability that are considered to be under examination in the POD trial and those that are considered to be outside the scope of the trial.