The following basic rules shall be observed when using abrasive
wheel grinding machines:
Operation of a grinder is considered a hot work, thus appropriate
work permit must be obtained before it is used in a restricted area.
Proper personal protective equipment shall be worn during grinding work, such
as safety spectacles and face shields.
Do not wear gloves when using bench grinders as they can be caught
between grinder and stopper.
Do not use any type of grinding machines unless you are familiar
with the equipment.
A grinding machine shall not be operated without a protective
guard. Check the position of the guard and ensure it is tightly secured.
Do not operate the abrasive wheel in excess of its rated maximum
speed. Check that the abrasive wheel/disc speed is equal or in excess of
the machine speed before operating.
SAFE OPERATION
Do not apply excessive pressure on the grinders when grinding
When using a portable grinder ensure that sparks are not directed
towards other employees or combustibles. Fire blankets shall be used to
contain sparks.
Care shall be taken to avoid sudden impact or knocking of the
wheel, as one of the great hazards with the abrasive wheels, is the
disintegration of the wheel in service.
The side of the wheel must not be used for grinding unless the
wheel is designed for the purpose and excessive pressure must not be applied.
Soft material for which the wheel is not intended will clog
a wheel, cause imbalance, hinder heat dissipation and may cause the wheel to
disintegrate.
For bench grinders, the work rest must be secured and adjusted to
a distance of not more than 1/8 of an inch.
Ensure that the power supply of the grinder is completely shut off
before replacing the wheel or disc. Flexing the hose to shut off the
pneumatic grinders is an unsafe practice therefore not allowed.
• Remove - flammables.
• Secure - the work piece - never use your foot.
• Keep - work at waist height - adopt comfortable stance.
• Keep - both hands on the grinder.
• Run - the grinder “up to speed”.
• Apply - minimal pressure on the wheel.
• Avoid - using excessive force.
• Fully - position the guard.
• Position - the grinding wheel 15 to 30 degrees.
• Take - frequent breaks.
• Never - put down an operating grinder.
• Never- remove handle
• Don’t - drop grinders onto the ground.