Safe usage of Abrasive Wheels and hazards related to abrasive wheels at Work Place

ABRASIVE WHEELS

Hazards Associated:

There are many risks associated with using abrasive wheels of which you need to be aware of:

1.      Collapse, fragmentation or explosion of discs.

2.      Particles flying from materials being cut.

3.      Dust, avoid dry cutting, if not possible use respiratory protection.

4.      Sparks  which can lead to setting yourself or materials around  you on fire if you're  not  wearing the correct PPE, flame  retardant  clothing  or the area  is not clear of combustible  material.

5.      Noise levels when using disc normally exceeds 90dB (A), hearing protection must be worn.

6.      Vibrations, check exposure limitation on HAVS tags, do not exceed these.

7.      Contact with disc; ensure the guard is adjusted as required.

Health and Safety Topics:

1.      Do not operate the machine or mount abrasive wheels unless competent and trained to do so.

2.      Read any manufacture/s instructions before operating it and follow them.

3.      Check the machine is in good working order and that all guards are secure.

4.      Use the correct size and type of abrasive wheel for the material being cut.

5.      Ensure the machine maximum operating speed does not exceed the maximum speed allowed for the disc, this information can be found on the disc label.

6.      Ensure you have a Hot Work Permit.

7.      Wear the correct PPE at all times and keep people out of the cutting area.

8.      Position the cut-off machine in such a way that your body is to the side and away from the line of cut.

9.      Hold the machine firmly with both hands and maintain good balance and footing at all times.

10.  Do not over reach and do not cut above shoulder height.

11.  Check before starting that the material to be cut is secure/ clamped.

12.  Do not cut multiple stacked or bundled materials, cut items individually.

13.  Be especially alert to ‘kick backs’ and do not force the abrasive wheel when cutting.

14.  Be alert to any movement of the work piece or anything that could cause the cut to close and pinch the wheel.

15.  Use extreme caution when re-entering a cut, do not turn the wheel at an angle or force the wheel into the cut as the wheel may be pinched.

16.  Do not grind on the side of the abrasive wheel.

DISCUSSION POINT

Think about the last time you used an abrasive wheel, were you using it correctly and safely?

2.  Has anyone experienced an accident injury or near miss with abrasive wheels?

Categories: Construction Safety, Hot Work, Rotating equipment safety, Safety at Work place, ToolboxTalk