Arc welding and cutting equipment involves very high temperatures and very high currents. It is important to ensure proper operation of such equipment by qualified personnel. Proper care and experience in handling such equipment will ensure accident free operation. Here is a typical checklist to ensure no harm to operating person or machines.
| Sr | Check Item | Done |
| 1 | Have employees who are designated to operate arc welding equipment been properly instructed and qualified? | |
| 2 | Are open circuit (no load) voltages of arc welding and cutting machines as low as possible, consistent with satisfactory welding? | |
| 3 | When open circuit voltages must be higher, are means provided to prevent the operator from making accidental contact with the higher voltages? | |
| 4 | Is control apparatus enclosed on all types of arc welding machines? | |
| 5 | Are terminals for welding leads protected from accidental electrical contact by personnel or metal objects? | |
| 6 | Do you ensure that no connections for portable control devices, such as push buttons carried by the operator, are connected to an a.c. circuit of higher than 120 volts. | |
| 7 | Is the frame or case of the welding machine effectively grounded and the grounding checked? | |
| 8 | Is a separate disconnecting switch or controller provided at or near each welding machine? | |
| 9 | Are electrode holders placed so that they cannot make electrical contact with persons, conducting objects, fuel, or compressed gas tanks? | |
| 10 | Has the operator been instructed to report any equipment defect or safety hazard to his supervisor, and is use of the equipment discontinued until repaired by qualified personnel? | |
| 11 | Are work and electrode lead cables frequently inspected for wear and damage, and are cables with damaged insulation or exposed bare conductors replaced? |