===== TIG Welder Clearance=====
Members who are already proficient in the subject matter may apply to receive a clearance by demonstrating a 
core set of skills and knowledge that allow them to safely and effectively use the equipment.

> Most tools in the shop require clearance before solo use. Each tool is different and most are expensive and/or delicate. 

During a Proficiency Based Clearance Instructors will provide Protohaven specific customs and rules for the 
equipment but will not provide technical instruction on the operation of the hardware, or software.

If a member needs to gain additional knowledge or skill they should take a Basic Skills Class to learn the 
required skills.

The items that will need to be demonstrated to gain the Proficiency Based Clearance are:


===== General Shop Rules  =====

==== Be safe ====

  * Understands safety clearances are required as bare minimum.
  * Understands equipment must never be left unattended.
  * Understands why equipment must be reset after use.

==== Take care of the tools ====

  * Will not alter or use equipment beyond limits.
  * Will notify when maintenance is needed.

==== Keep the shop clean ====

  * Understands importance of cleaning up after oneself.
  * Will return borrowed tools to original location.
  * Understands anything left outside of your paid monthly or overnight storage may be removed and disposed.

===== Personal Protective Equipment =====

  * Knows whether long sleeves can be worn beyond elbows during operation of equipment.
  * Knows whether loose clothing & hair may be worn down.
  * Knows whether open-toed shoes may be worn.
  * Knows whether safety glasses and hearing protection are required during operation.
  * Knows whether safety glasses are required when near someone else operating equipment in the workshop.

===== Point out the following tool features =====

  * Maintenance Tag
  * E-Stop
  * more

===== Identify & mitigate common hazards =====

  * Hood in improper mode
  * Hot metals in shop
  * Electrocution
  * Oxygen displacement
  * Welding on containers that have held flammable contents
  * Toxic fumes

===== Allowable Materials =====

  * Mild steel
  * Aluminum
  * Stainless Steel
  * NOT zinc or galvanized steel
  * NOT magnesium
  * NOT painted workpieces
===== Safe Setup/Operation/Cleanup =====
 
  * Demonstrates proper PPE
  * Demonstrates proper isolation of welding area to prevent flashing members in the workshop
  * Demonstrates how to properly prepare weld area (no paint, no rust)
  * Demonstrates how to properly ground work
  * Demonstrates how to safely open gas cylinder
  * Demonstrates proper operating gas flow
  * Demonstrates safe grinding of a tungsten electrode
  * Demonstrated how to assemble TIG torch
  * Demonstrates how to properly select the current type, amps, etc.
  * Demonstrates how to properly use the fume extractor
  * Demonstrated how to initiate an arc
  * Demonstrated how to form and move a weld puddle
  * Demonstrated how to add filler rod
  * Demonstrated how to safely close gas cylinder and purge regulator


===== Knowledge and Technique =====
 
  * Knows when the different polarity settings should be used
  * Explain what AC balance adjustment control is for
  * Explain what post-flow is