Choosing a metal fabrication shop for any industry or business can be a daunting task. Companies large or small want exceptional quality at competitive prices. Getting price quotes from several sources is always wise, but it’s good to note before making a decision that any price discrepancies may reflect the use of higher quality metals or a greater degree of precision cutting tools and the like. Meaning higher costs up front may translate into better products and fewer costly mistakes over the long term.

Pricing aside, because metal fabrication companies vary in what services they provide, companies seeking out those services should be aware that not all fabrication companies are built the same. Some companies may offer a variety of services while others specialize in only a handful.

​Custom metal fabrication is as much a service as it is an art. With that in mind, below are several options to consider before selecting a metal fabrication shop for your company’s needs.

Q: I am in charge of our company’s safety talks. Which welding safety topics should I cover?
A: When the proper safety measures and training are in place, welding and cutting are safe occupations. When these measures are unknown or ignored, you can find yourself in some very hazardous, even deadly situations.

In this industry, the most common avoidable accidents are burns, cuts, and eye injuries. The Standards New Zealand (NZS) 4781:1973 Code of practice for safety in welding and cutting is the industry standard for safety, and every company that welds or cuts should have a copy of this document on hand. It is available from several sources as a free download if you search it on Google. You can take individual topics outlined in this standard and discuss them during your safety meetings.