What should be done with flammable materials near the welding area?

It is essential to remove or secure flammable materials near the welding area to ensure a safe working environment. Welding operations generate high temperatures and sparks, which can easily ignite combustible substances. By removing these materials, you effectively eliminate a significant fire hazard. If removal is not feasible due to the nature of the work or the absence of space, then securing them properly in a manner that minimizes risk—such as shielding them with fire-resistant barriers or relocating them to a safe distance—is crucial to preventing accidents.

Using coverings like tarps or employing flammable materials as shields is inappropriate because they do not provide adequate fire protection and can exacerbate the risk of fire. Leaving hazardous materials unattended poses an obvious danger, as a single spark can lead to a catastrophic fire, making the removal or securing of flammable items paramount in welding safety practices.