THE SAFE USE OF ANGLE GRINDERS, ABRASIVE WHEELS …

1 THE SAFE USE OF ANGLE GRINDERS, ABRASIVE WHEELS AND diamond DISCS February 2016 Rev. 1 Note to the person undertaking the toolbox talk. This first page constitutes notes which form the basis of the talk. Print off two or more of the second page, laminate them if necessary and pass them round as the talk is being conducted. The numbers refer to the pictures on page 2 This talk should only be used as a refresher. ANGLE grinder users should always undergo formal training. ANGLE grinders are very useful but you must use them properly. Many accidents even fatalities - have happened because ANGLE grinders have not been used correctly. Remember, a disc goes round at 180mph (300 Km/h) Before you start Make sure the grinder and cable is in good condition. Check the guard is secure, correct for the machine and does not snag the wheel .

2 Check your disc carefully. The edge should be even. They must not be chipped, broken or have a hole in. diamond discs must not be bent or dented and there should be no segments missing. PPE - Wear goggles or eye protection at all times, ear defenders, gloves, safety footwear and a mask if there is dust. Do not wear loose fitting clothing, especially sleeves. Remove jewellery. Be aware of others in the work area. Ensure there is no fuel or flammable material in the work area, especially where the sparks may go. If you discover any problems carrying out these checks, see your foreman and do not start work. Changing the disc Never use a grinder with no guard or remove the guard to put on a bigger disc. Unplug the grinder or remove the battery. Use the spanner or key to carefully undo the old disc.

3 Do not use any other tool. Check the new disc for damage and only fit the disc if it is ok. Before use, point the grinder away from persons and run it under no load to ensure it works ok. Using the grinder If you are cutting into ground - or even a wall - make sure there are no buried pipes, cables or services. Many grinders start up with a real kick, especially large ones. Hold it firmly when you turn it on. Power up the grinder , then offer it to the work surface, not the other way round. Do not use excessive or any sideways pressure as this is dangerous and does not work. This includes applying pressure to the disc to stop it revolving. When switching off, hold the grinder firmly until it stops by itself. Remember disc edges get very hot when in use. If the disc gets damaged in use, fit a new one.

4 Never use a damaged disc. Do not hold the item you are cutting. Anchor it. Always hold the grinder with two hands, using the handle. Never sharpen, smooth or grind anything with a cutting disc. If you do not use a grinder correctly you may be asked to leave site. Do you have any questions? Issued by: Foresight Safety Ltd P O Box 917 Woking Surrey GU21 8YA Tel: 01483 824262 E-mail: info@foresight The safe use of ANGLE grinders, ABRASIVE WHEELS & diamond discs