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Safe Operating Procedure: Angle Grinder

Safe Operating Procedure: Angle Grinder

  • Safe Operating Procedure:
    Angle Grinder

    1. SPECIFIC SAFETY – RISK CONTROL MEASURES

    Angle grinders are a dangerous power tool. More accidents are recorded against this tool than all others. Kickbacks can result in severe cuts and discs can shatter or disintegrate producing fragments which may become lodged in the operator’s eyes or other parts of the body.

    2. MOST FREQUENT ACCIDENTS WITH ANGLE GRINDERS

    2.1. 9” /LARGE GRINDER

    The removal of the Manufacturer’s guard to insert a saw blade and using it to cut branches or timber. This is a Deadly High Risk Activity. Your insurance company may not pay up on this activity!

    2.2. 4” / 100 MM GRINDER

    Plumbers removing the guard so that they can trim the inside of a Poly Pipe floor penetration below the floor level. Other tools will do this more safely. The compounding problem is that the guard doesn’t get put back onto the grinder for other tasks. Workplace Inspectors are checking toolboxes on work sites!

    1. NEVER USE A CUT-OFF WHEEL FOR GRINDING OR A GRINDING DISC FOR CUTTING.

    1. Try to use a grinder that has an automatic cut-off or “dead man” switch as part of the hand-grip. This is designed to cut off power as soon as finger pressure is released. Automatic cut-off switches may not be available on smaller models and may not be practicable for certain tasks.
    2. Never use a grinder between the legs while sitting on the floor. The QLD Ambulance Service says this is a common practice.

    2. BEFORE USING AN ANGLE GRINDER, CHECK TO ENSURE THAT:

    1. The guard and handles (as specified by the Manufacturer) are secure.
    2. The correct flange and locking nut is in place for the type of disc being used, otherwise the disc can shatter at high speed.
    3. There are no defects or damage to the disc. A disc which has been dropped may have developed cracks and should not be used.

    3. GENERAL OPERATIONAL PRECAUTIONS

    1. Use only in designated grinding areas – erect screens if necessary
    2. With the power off, ensure that the grinding disc, guard and attachments (including handle) are secure and correctly fitted. Inspect grinding disk for damage including centre arbor for fit.
    3. Do not lift or drag angle grinders by the cord
    4. Do not wear loose clothing, or jewellery. Long hair is to be tied back.
    5. Do not overreach. Keep a proper footing and balance.
    6. Stay alert. Watch what you are doing. Do not operate machine when you are tired.
    7. Do not use the machine if under the influence of alcohol, medication or drugs.

    4. OPERATION

    1. Secure and support the work piece using clamps, bench vices but not your work boots.
    2. Use the screw-in handle on the grinder and grasp with left hand: Hopefully will reduce cuts to left hand and also give improved control when the grinder jumps after jamming. Not IF but WHEN!
    3. Keep fingers and hands & power cords clear of the grinding disk.
    4. Using the grinder above head height increases risk significantly. Use Full Face protection when grinding above Head Height.
    5. Never make adjustments while the angle grinder is running.
    6. Do not switch off the angle grinder when it is under load, except in an emergency.
    7. Allow angle grinder to reach operating speed before applying to work piece & increase load gradually.
    8. Be aware of flying sparks. Hold grinder so that sparks fly away from you, other people and flammable materials.
    9. Do not leave the angle grinder running & only use the grinder when hand held.
    10. Clean bench and work area & place all waste material in bin.
    11. Return angle grinder & rolled up extension leads to storage area

    5. PPE: PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT.

    In specific work locations all available types of PPE may be required to be used at the same time.

    1. Hazard of Noise.

    The need to wear a combination of ear plugs and ear muffs. (The wearing of ear plugs will double the effectiveness of earmuffs by 3 db.)

    2. Hazard of metal- sparks:

    Wide vision goggles, safety glasses are essential.

    3. Hazard of disk disintegration.

    Use a Polycarbonate Visor of 1 mm high impact:

    Polycarbonate Visor

    6. SAFETY BOOTS WITH STEEL TOECAPS

    7. OVERALLS OR OTHER FITTED CLOTHING

    8. WELL-FITTED GLOVES THAT ALLOW A GOOD GRIP OF THE TOOL.

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