What safety precaution needs to be taken while performing thermite welding?

Restricting access to the area during thermite welding is essential for ensuring safety. This practice helps prevent any accidental injuries to bystanders or unauthorized personnel who may not be aware of the hazards involved with the process. Thermite welding involves high temperatures and can produce molten metal and intense light, both of which pose significant safety risks. By controlling access to the welding site, you mitigate the dangers associated with flying sparks, potential burns, and exposure to harmful fumes.

While wearing gloves is indeed a precaution to protect the handler's hands from burns, and using water can be a common firefighting measure, these precautions do not address the broader aspect of area safety and awareness. Similarly, finishing quickly could lead to hasty decisions and overlooking necessary safeguards, ultimately increasing the risk of accidents. Restricting access prioritizes safety by ensuring that only trained individuals are present, allowing for a focused and controlled environment during the welding operation.