Abrasive Wheels - Use of Portable Grinders

• An operator must be fully trained and instructed in the safe use, care, and protection from the grinder before use.
• Guards must be provided and adjusted properly as per the manufacturer's manual. Replace damaged guards because if an abrasive wheel breaks while rotating, it can cause a serious injury.
• Before use, check the manufacturer's stated running speeds or markings on the grinder, and grinder wheel for the maximum speed that it can be used.
• Follow the manufacturer's manual for the safe use of grinder wheel guards.
• Clean and service grinders according to manufacturers' recommendations. Record all maintenance for grinders.
• Make sure that a machine will not operate when unattended by checking the dead-man (constant pressure) switch.
• Wear safety glasses or goggles, or a face shield (with safety glasses or goggles) to protect against flying particles. Gloves, aprons, metatarsal safety boots, hearing protection, and respiratory protection may be required, depending on the work.
• Ensure the floor around the work area is clean.
• Do not use wheels that are cracked or those that excessively vibrate.
• Use both hands when holding the grinder.
• Keep the power cord away from the grinding wheel and the material being ground.
• When required, have a hot work permit before use.
• Make sure the work area is clear of flammable products and that combustible dust is not allowed to accumulate. 
   

• The maximum speed in revolutions per minute (RPM) is marked on every wheel. Never exceed this speed.
• Check that the wheel speed marked on the wheel is equal to or greater than the maximum speed of the grinder.
• Measure the speed of any new machine. Take several readings.
• Measure the speed of governor-controlled air-driven grinders after twenty hours of use or every week, whichever comes first. Measure the speed after any repairs.
• Measure the speed of electrically driven grinders monthly and after repairs.

• Check that grinders do not vibrate or operate roughly.
• Hold grinders as follows:
  • Horizontal grinder - the full grinding face width of the wheel is in contact with the grinding surface.
  • Right-angle grinder - the grinding face of the wheel or disc is at an angle of between 5 and 15 degrees from the grinding surface.
  • Vertical grinder - the grinding wheel face is in contact with the surface.
• Use racks or hooks to store portable grinders.
• Stand away from the wheel when starting grinders. Warn co-workers to do the same.
• Inspect all wheels for cracks and defects before mounting.
• Perform a “ring test” to check if the wheel is damaged. Ring tests do not apply to small wheels that are 10 cm (4 in.) in diameter or smaller.
• Ensure that the mounting flange surfaces are clean and flat.
• Ensure the wheel guard is in place while operating the grinder.
• Use the mounting blotters supplied.
• Run newly mounted wheels at operating speed for 1 minute before grinding.
• Wear appropriate eye, ear and face protection. Use other personal protective equipment or clothing, as required under the circumstances.
• Use an appropriate ventilation exhaust system to reduce inhalation of dusts, debris, and coolant mists. Exhaust systems must be designed and maintained appropriately.

Refer to Abrasive Wheels for further information.

• Do not use grinders near flammable materials.
• Do not clamp portable grinders in a vise for grinding hand-held work.
• Do not use any liquid coolants with portable grinders.
• Do not operate the grinder on wet floors.
• Do not force wheels onto a grinder that is the wrong size or change mounting hole sizes.
• Do not tighten the mounting nut excessively.
• Do not put the grinder on the floor or working surface until the wheel has stopped turning.
• Do not use a wheel with a maximum RPM that is lower than the RPM rating of the grinder.
• Do not keep any materials close to the grinding wheel when it is not in use.
• Do not wear loose clothing or dangling jewellery as they may get caught in the moving parts of the grinder. If you have long hair, keep it tied back.