Small Aircraft
Air Traffic Control Fully Certified
Air Traffic Control Time Certified In Pos 1 (yrs) 6
Situational Awareness; Training / Qualification
ATC Issue All Types; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Clearance; Inflight Event / Encounter CFTT / CFIT
Human Factors
I was training a developmental in all the radar positions combined. We had 4-5 aircraft being vectored to final for RWY 15 at CHS. Another IFR aircraft was on course to an IAF for an instrument approach at JZI. When Aircraft X called VFR looking for his IFR flight plan; he was potentially a direct conflict for the aircraft approaching JZI. I told the trainee to have him head westbound to avoid the other aircraft; but he was still VFR. Aircraft X was approaching an area with an MVA of 020 and he was at 015. While also focusing on keeping the aircraft separated and sequenced to CHS; I told the trainee to clear Aircraft X. I missed it if he was directly in toward an obstacle. Also; I interpreted the .65 that it was still up to the pilot to obtain their own obstruction/terrain clearance. Aircraft X was cleared on his IFR flight plan; but no other turn or direction was given. Aircraft X climbed and proceeded on course with no incident.The needs to be definitive guidance on when it is ATC or the pilot's responsibility to maintain obstruction/terrain clearance when transitioning between VFR to IFR. If I interpreted the .65 incorrectly; I would like to be clear so I do not make the mistake again.
TRACON Instructor reported being unclear of the party responsible to maintain obstruction clearance while transitioning from a VFR to IFR clearance.