Before cutting out a rail section on a container, what is the primary action to take?

Before cutting out a rail section on a container, supporting the container to prevent distortion is crucial. When a significant portion of the structural member, such as a rail, is removed, the remaining parts of the container can experience shifts or warping due to the loss of structural integrity. This distortion can lead to misalignment and affect the container's overall performance and safety. By providing adequate support, you ensure that the container maintains its original shape, thereby safeguarding against any potential complications during and after the cutting process.

While preparing a welding machine, measuring dimensions, and marking the area are all important steps in the cutting process, they follow the critical action of ensuring structural support. Without proper support, even the most precise measurements and preparations could result in an unsafe working condition, ultimately impacting the container's usability and integrity.