What should be done with combustible barriers when using flame during operations?

When using flame during operations, the ideal practice for managing combustible barriers is to cover them with a damp cloth. This approach helps mitigate the risk of ignition and reduces the possibility of a fire spreading to those barriers. The damp cloth acts as a protective layer, minimizing the heat exposure to the combustibles and helping to cool any areas that might start to catch fire if left exposed.

Covering combustible barriers with a damp cloth is a proactive safety measure that supports a controlled environment during torch operations. It is crucial to remember that even if a flame is carefully directed, any nearby combustibles must be adequately protected to prevent accidental ignition.

While other methods of managing combustibles might sound plausible, they either don't provide the same level of protection or may not be practical. For example, maintaining distance could work but might not fully protect all surfaces that could be affected by radiated heat. Removing combustible materials completely may not always be feasible in an operational context, particularly if such items are integral to the work area. Lastly, simply using combustibles as needed does not prioritize safety, as it could lead to dangerous outcomes if the materials interact with the flame. Thus, using damp cloths is the most effective and safe option during flame operations.