What is a requirement for fire extinguishers in welding areas?

In welding areas, the requirement is that fire extinguishers must be suitable for the types of fires that may occur, properly maintained, and located within 30 feet of the operation. This is crucial because welding operations involve the use of high heat and open flames, which can ignite flammable materials. Therefore, having a fire extinguisher that is quickly accessible—within a 30-foot radius—ensures that operators can respond rapidly to a fire situation. The need for these extinguishers to be suitable ensures that they are effective against potential fire hazards present in the welding environment, such as electrical fires or fires fueled by combustible materials.

While maintenance is also critical in ensuring that extinguishers function properly when needed, the specific distance of 30 feet is a key firefighting safety guideline that helps minimize the risk of fire spreading before it can be controlled.