If possible, work to be welded should be placed on a firebrick surface at a comfortable height. Welding should never be done directly on a concrete floor. Heat from the arc can cause steam to build-up in the floor which could cause an explosion. The welder cables should be positioned so that sparks and molten metal will not fall on them. They should also be kept free of grease and oil and located where they will not be driven over.
Electric welders can kill by electric shock.
If the welding operation must be done on steel or other conductive material an insulating mat must be used under the operator. It is easier and safer to establish an arc on a clean surface than a dirty or rusty one. Therefore, metal should always be thoroughly cleaned by wire brushing or other method prior to welding. When chipping slag or wire brushing the finished bead the operator should always be sure to protect his eyes and body from flying slag and chips. Unused electrodes and electrode stubs should not be left on the floor as they create a slipping hazard.