Which of the following statements is true regarding fire safety equipment in welding areas?

• A. A portable fire extinguisher is required at each welding location.
• B. Fire extinguishers are optional.
• C. Only large operations require extinguishers.
• D. Extinguishers must be kept away from welding area.

Answer: (A)

Welding areas carry a real fire risk because sparks and heat can ignite surrounding materials. Having a portable fire extinguisher at each welding location ensures a quick, first-line response to any flare-up before it can grow, helping to protect workers and minimize damage. This availability is a practical safety measure and is typically required by safety regulations for welding tasks in mines and other industrial settings.

Extinguishers being optional is not correct because that would leave a potential fire unaddressed at the exact moment it starts. Requiring them at every welding spot ensures immediate access.

The idea that only large operations need extinguishers is also incorrect; even small welding tasks can spark a fire, so safeguards should be in place at every location where welding occurs.

Keeping extinguishers away from the welding area defeats the purpose of having them handy when a fire starts, so accessibility and proximity to the welding work are essential.