TS 12634

TS 12634 is a vocational standard for the founder occupation, defining and classifying the profession at different levels and setting out the characteristics expected from people who perform it. Foundry work is based on turning molten metal into a shaped solid through casting, so the occupation combines materials knowledge, process control, and disciplined working practices.

What the standard covers

According to the scope, the standard addresses the definition and classification of founders, the minimum tools and equipment used in the occupation, and the characteristics required for each class, together with the criteria used to measure and evaluate those characteristics. This kind of structure separates roles and responsibilities within the same occupation. In general technical terms, foundry work includes stages such as mould preparation, melting, pouring, cooling, and finishing, and the required competence must match those stages.

Tools, equipment, and working conditions

The explicit reference to minimum tools and equipment shows that the occupation is not only knowledge-based but also strongly practical. In a foundry environment, core items typically include moulding and core-making tools, measurement and inspection instruments, personal protective equipment, and equipment suitable for work at high temperatures. Standards of this type provide a common occupational language and help make competence assessment more consistent.

• Definition and classification of the occupation
• Minimum tools and equipment
• Class-based characteristics and measurement criteria
• Evaluation of qualifications