What action should be taken when an arc welder stops work or leaves their station?

When an arc welder stops work or leaves their station, the appropriate action is to open the power supply switch. This ensures that the equipment is completely powered off, which is critical for safety. Arc welding involves high voltage and can create extreme hazards if left unattended. By disconnecting the power supply, you minimize the risk of accidental starts, electrical shocks, or even fires that could result from residual power on the equipment. This practice aligns with standard safety protocols in welding operations, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that all equipment is de-energized when not in use to protect both the operator and the surrounding environment.

While other actions could be beneficial in certain contexts, such as notifying a supervisor or activating an alarm, they do not directly address the immediate safety concern of ensuring that the equipment is not live and potentially dangerous when the welder is no longer present.