Before cutting or welding containers, what must you check for?

Before cutting or welding containers, it is crucial to verify if they contain any explosive, hazardous, or flammable materials. This is essential for ensuring safety during the cutting or welding process. Containers that house such materials pose significant risks, including fire, explosion, and toxic fume release, which could result in serious injuries or fatalities.

By identifying the presence of these potentially dangerous substances beforehand, workers can take appropriate precautions, such as venting the container, purging it with an inert gas, or implementing other safety measures to mitigate risks. The focus on hazardous materials underscores the importance of adhering to safety regulations and protocols in welding and cutting operations.

Factors such as the material composition of the container or whether it is rusty or corroded are secondary to the primary concern of safety and risk management. While it may also be important to check if a container is empty, the clear priority is to ensure that no dangerous substances are present before engaging in any cutting or welding activities.