Abrasive Wheels Safety Hazards and Controls

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SAFETY TALK

Abrasive Wheels Safety Hazards & Controls 

Abrasive wheels can kill if incorrectly fitted or used in correctly.

General hazards related to abrasive wheels :-  

• Burst Wheels
• Flying particles entering eyes
• Disc incorrectly fitted
• Injuries to limbs
• Inadequate access to workplace
• Unauthorised use of equipment

Safety Controls & Points 

• Concrete saws and angle grinders will be considered to be abrasive wheels.
• Any person who uses such a tool or who changes a wheel or disc on such a tool must be trained.The names of these people are recorded in the site inspection register.
• Wheels should never be operated without guards in place. Operators should wear suitable personal protection, especially for the eyes.
• The operator should carry out a visual check on the machine or tool prior to use. He should also check for loose plug connections or damage to the cable sheath and report any faults to his supervisor.
• Do not exert heavy pressure on the wheel.
• Reinforced wheels must always be used on hand held machines.
• Check that the maximum speed of the wheel is greater than the maximum spindle speed before fitting.
• Keep your fingers away frombelow the tool rest level & the cutting edge of the wheel.
• Eye & ear protection MUST always be worn when using an abrasive wheel. Keep any glass screen in the safety position.When cutting concrete products, wear a dust mask.
• When mounting wheels or discs, ensure that the maximum operating speed marked on the wheel is not exceeded.
• The wheel guard must be secured in position and properly adjusted before the wheel is run.
• Grinding on the side of straight sided wheels, used for offhand grinding, is dangerous particularly when they are appreciably worn or when sudden pressure is applied. Never use the side of the wheel
• Make sure that other personnel are clear of the area in which you are working.
• Adjust the tool rest as close as possible to the face of the wheel
• Take care work does not slip off the rest.
• Loose clothing must not be worn by the operator.
• Use the correct grade of wheel for the work in hand. Check that the speed (rpm) of the machine does not exceed the speed marked on the wheel.
• Keep the face of the wheel evenly dressed. Check that the wheel is not damaged before use. If it is, replace the wheel. Never over tighten the wheel, use the correct spanner for wheel fitting.
• Run a replacement wheel after fitting to ensure it is stable and does not vibrate before attempting to use it.
• Stand clear during the test.
• Stop the wheel when not in use.
• After re-fueling, ensure that the fuel container lid is replaced and is stored away from the cutting area.
• Always store the wheels in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.  

RAINING IS REQUIRED TO USE ABRASIVE WHEELS! 

PROTECT YOUR EYES FROM FLYING FRAGMENTS

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