What should you do before welding?

• A. Wear proper PPE and remove flammable materials
• B. Start welding immediately
• C. Keep flammable materials nearby
• D. Use only a fire extinguisher

Answer: (A)

Before welding, protect yourself and the work area. Put on the proper PPE—includ­ing a welding helmet or safety glasses with the right shade, flame-resistant clothing, gloves, and any needed respiratory or hearing protection—and remove all flammable materials from the vicinity. Sparks and heat can ignite vapors or nearby fuels in an instant, so eliminating ignition sources is the most effective safeguard. Jumping into welding without this preparation raises the risk of burns and fires. Leaving flammable materials nearby or trying to compensate with a fire extinguisher alone aren’t safe practices; you need both proper protection and a clean, safe workspace, with firefighting equipment available as a precaution.