Final answer:
The statement refers to the procedure of preparing the welding surface by removing any contaminants including paint, extending 2 inches from the root of the weld, which is a standard practice in welding to ensure a high-quality weld joint.
Step-by-step explanation:
The phrase 'cleaned thoroughly of all foreign matter including paint for a distance of 2 inches from the root of the weld' references a standard practice in welding operations, particularly in the context of surface preparation for welding. Prior to the welding process, it is essential to remove any contaminating substances such as grease, oil, dirt, and especially paint from the base metal to ensure a strong and defect-free weld. The removal of such substances must be done in a way that prevents contamination of the weld area, often requiring a minimum clean area extending a specific distance from the root of the weld, in this case, 2 inches. This meticulous cleaning helps in achieving the necessary metal fusion during welding, and contributes to the overall integrity and strength of the welded joint.