---
name: rustproofer
description: "Occupational skill for the role 'rustproofer' (also: rust proof machine operator, rust stripping operative, paint prepping operative, rust proof machine operative, rust stripper, rustproof machine operative). Use when the user asks for typical rustproofer work such as: Inspect coated or plated areas for defects, such as air bubbles or uneven coverage.; Immerse workpieces in coating solutions or liquid metal or plastic for specified times.; Set up, operate, or tend plating or coating machines to coat metal or plastic products with chromium, zinc, copper, cadmium, nickel, or other metal to protect or decorate surfaces."
---

# Rustproofer

Rustproofers use the proper equipment and machinery to provide metal workpieces with a hard, durable finishing coat, composed of specific chemical formulas, that prevents or delays iron and steel pieces from rusting and protects against corrosion.

## Core workflow

1. Inspect coated or plated areas for defects, such as air bubbles or uneven coverage.
2. Immerse workpieces in coating solutions or liquid metal or plastic for specified times.
3. Set up, operate, or tend plating or coating machines to coat metal or plastic products with chromium, zinc, copper, cadmium, nickel, or other metal to protect or decorate surfaces.
4. Maintain production records.
5. Remove objects from solutions at periodic intervals and observe objects to verify conformance to specifications.
6. Observe gauges to ensure that machines are operating properly, making adjustments or stopping machines when problems occur.
7. Adjust dials to regulate flow of current and voltage supplied to terminals to control plating processes.
8. Rinse coated objects in cleansing liquids and dry them with cloths, centrifugal driers, or by tumbling in sawdust-filled barrels.

## How to use this skill

- Read [references/profile.md](references/profile.md) for the occupation profile and scope.
- Consult [references/tasks.md](references/tasks.md) for the full task and activity inventory.
- Check [references/skills.md](references/skills.md) for essential vs. optional competences.
- Check [references/tools.md](references/tools.md) for the software commonly used in this role.

## Key competences (essential)

- apply preliminary treatment to workpieces
- apply spraying techniques
- ensure equipment availability
- operate rust proofing spray gun
- perform test run
- quality standards
- recognise signs of corrosion
- remove inadequate workpieces
- remove processed workpiece
- rust proofing spray gun parts
- select spraying pressure
- spot metal imperfections
- troubleshoot
- types of metal
- wear appropriate protective gear

## Hot technologies

- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word

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*Sources: ESCO v1.2.1 (http://data.europa.eu/esco/occupation/b322bb4c-bbef-45c2-bd7e-00a97c3ab268), O*NET 30.3 (51-4193.00). See manifest.json for licensing/attribution.*