When cutting out a damaged rail section, what should the cut extend beyond?

The correct choice is to have the cut extend beyond the damaged area. This approach is essential because simply cutting at the edges of the damage might leave some compromised material intact, which could lead to further issues in that section of the rail. By extending the cut beyond the damaged area, you ensure that all structural integrity concerns caused by the damage are addressed. Additionally, this practice helps prevent future failures in the rail, contributing to the overall safety and reliability of the container after repairs.

A choice that focuses only on the edges of the rail would not adequately ensure that all compromised material is removed, which could leave behind potential weaknesses. Similarly, cutting to the opposite side of the container or to the center of the rail may not specifically address the extent of the damage. It's crucial to systematically ensure that any repairs made address the entire affected area rather than leaving any potential risks behind, which is why extending the cut beyond the damage is the best practice in this scenario.