When equipment fails, it doesn’t just stall production—it sends shockwaves through your entire operation. In the oil, gas, food, ethanol, and manufacturing industries, even a few hours of downtime can mean tens of thousands in lost output.
Whether it’s a cracked tank, busted support, or a leaking weld, CM Metalworks & Welding knows that the clock starts ticking the moment something breaks. That’s why being ready—before you make the emergency call—is one of the smartest things you can do.
Here’s how to prep like a pro so our AWS-certified crew can get your operation back online faster—and safer.
1. Know Who’s in Charge, and Where
In a crisis, clarity saves time. Assign a primary on-site contact (and a backup if there’s a shift change), and make sure we have the exact job-site address, GPS pin, and gate/dock codes. If access instructions are buried in someone’s inbox, it delays the whole repair.
2. Identify the Problem with Precision
Before we arrive, jot down a few critical details:
- What machine or structure failed?
- What’s the material? Mild steel, stainless, aluminum, cast?
- How thick is it? What pipe schedule?
- When did it fail—and were there any previous repair attempts?
These details help us roll in with the right gear the first time.
3. Safety Isn’t Optional
We work fast—but we also work safe. Before we strike an arc, make sure:
- Hot-work permits are arranged, and a fire watch is assigned if required.
- The work area is cleared of debris, fluids, and combustibles.
- Overhead hazards are secured.
- LOTO (Lock-Out/Tag-Out) has been performed, and the power shut-off point is marked.
- Ventilation is ready—or request our portable fume hood.
4. Support Makes the Difference
Time matters. Having a 120V outlet, compressed air, or forklift for positioning can shave serious minutes off the repair. Make sure drawings, specs, and inspection criteria (especially if food-grade or AWS D1.1 standards apply) are ready and visible.
5. Photos Save a Thousand Questions
Before we arrive, take:
- A wide shot of the damaged component
- Two close-ups of the crack or break
- A few key measurements with a ruler or tape visible in the shot
It sounds simple—but these photos often determine whether we can bring the exact part or material needed without delay.
6. Know the Downtime Window
What’s the real deadline for completion? Is there a safe window—like a shift change or scheduled production pause—for welding to happen? Are other trades affected? Lining this up ahead of time helps us schedule efficiently and keeps everyone safe.
7. Wrap It Up Right
After the fix, your team should:
- Visually inspect the weld and sign off
- Schedule any needed NDT or pressure tests
- Remove LOTO and reinstall guards
- Log the resumption of production
A clean finish is part of the job.
📞 One Call, No Excuses
Even with perfect prep, emergencies still happen. When they do, CM Metalworks & Welding is ready 24/7 across Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota, and South Dakota. We’ll get to your site fast—equipped, certified, and focused on getting your line moving again.
Keep this checklist handy, and you’ll be ahead of the game when minutes matter most.
Need help now? Call our emergency welding hotline: 952-206-8383
Or visit cmmetalworksandwelding.com
