GRINDER SAFETY

An angle grinder is also called a disc or side grinder. It is a

portable power tool used for cutting and grinding activities.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO CONSIDER GRINDER SAFETY ?
Using an angle grinder can be extremely dangerous. If used
incorrectly, the grinder disc can break, and projectiles fly
through the air and strike the operator and others in the
surroundings.
Occupational Safety and Hazards Administration (OSHA)
statistics show a 20% fatality rate for injuries resulting from
grinder or saw kickbacks.
COMMON CAUSES OF GRINDER INCIDENT
Fatigue
Rushing to finish a job
Lack of knowledge of potential risks
Using the wrong tools or accessories
Removal or bypassing the safety devices.

HAZARDS TO WATCH
Most grinder injuries are from metal particles of the material
lodging in the operator’s eye.
Kickback, where the disc is thrust away from the object, can
result in severe cuts to hands, arms, head, torso, and legs.
Discs can shatter or explode, and flying pieces across the
work area could injure the operator or other workers.
Electric shock in case of damaged electric cable, plug,
receptacles and the body of the appliance.
A fire can be caused by sparks flying on combustible
material placed nearby or by an electrical short circuit.

GRINDER SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Make sure the floor around the work area is clean. Remove all
combustible materials, including paper, cardboard, liquids etc.
Obtain Hot Work Permit prior to start the job.
Secure or remove your loose cloths, jewelry before start of the job.
Inform your supervisor in case of fatigue.
Guards must be provided and adjusted properly as per the
manufacturers recommendation.
Replace the damaged guard.
Never Alter a Tool by bypassing any safety device/ Guard.
Check that the wheel speed (RPM) marked on the wheel should be
equal to or greater than the maximum speed of the grinder.
Before using the grinder, warm it up and check the integrity of the
grinder by running it for at least one full minute.
Do not use wheels that are cracked or vibrate excessively.
Tighten Discs Properly by using special pin wrench.
Never operate power tools in wet environments.
Keep the power cord away from the wheel and the material.
Always use a side handle with both hands on the grinder.
Always start grinder with the wheel facing away from the body and
other workers.
Ensure that a machine will not operate when unattended by
checking the dead-man switch. Unplug the machine after use.
AMMAR TOUSEEF Wear Face shield (With Goggles or glasses), Gloves, apron, hearing
AMMAR.TOUSEEF@GMAIL.COM protection, respiratory protection (If needed).