FAQs
For right-angle grinders, the grinding face of the wheel or disc should be held at an angle between 5 and 15 degrees from the grinding surface. OSHA standards prohibit the use of accessories that are not specifically designed or recommended by the manufacturer for use with that equipment.
What are the safety rules for angle grinders? ›
Follow these suggested safe practices when an angle grinder is in use:
- use two hands to operate the grinder. ...
- allow the grinder to 'run up' to operating speed before applying it to the job.
- hold the grinder against the work piece with minimum pressure, so the disc does not 'grab' and cause it to kickback.
What are the hazards of grinder tools? ›
Hazards to watch for:
Most angle grinder injuries are from metal particles lodging in the operator's eye. Kickback, where the disc is thrust away from the object it is grinding, can result in severe cuts to hands, arms, head, torso, and legs. Discs can shatter or explode, sending pieces flying across the work area.
What are 5 safety practice when using the grinding machine? ›
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.
What PPE is needed for an angle grinder? ›
ESSENTIAL PPE
The first step in using an angle grinder safely is to follow basic safety procedures. This includes wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as hearing protection, safety glasses, a face shield, gloves and flame-resistant clothing.
Why are 9 inch angle grinders banned? ›
The ban is due to the high proportion of serious injuries that result from the use of these tools.
What is the most common injury from an angle grinder? ›
The most common sites injured are the head and face. The high speed disc of angle grinders does not respect anatomical boundaries or structures and thus the injuries produced can be disfiguring, permanently disabling or even fatal.
What not to do with an angle grinder? ›
While they may sound simple enough, however, angle grinders require some safety precautions.
- Do Use the Right Type of Disc. You should use the right type of disc. ...
- Do Inspect for Damage Before Use. ...
- Do Wear PPE. ...
- Don't Hold With One Hand. ...
- Don't Use on Unsecured Workpieces. ...
- Don't Leave Running.
Do you need a respirator for angle grinder? ›
If you're grinding is more than once in a blue moon, or you're grinding anything that may contain dangerous chemicals, it's recommended you invest in at least a half or full face respirator with the correct filters fitted.
What are 3 things you should do to use a grinder safely? ›
Angle Grinder Safety Tips
- Always Wear Proper PPE. ...
- Use the Proper Wheel Size. ...
- Match the RPMs with your Wheel's Allowance. ...
- Use the Safety Guards as Designed. ...
- Don't Tinker with the Machine. ...
- Inspect the Abrasives. ...
- Warm Up & Inspect the Grinder. ...
- Avoid Fire Hazards.
Pay particular attention to the vents; these should be clear of debris and dust, etc. Test the switch of the grinder making sure it works as the manufacturer intended. The grinder's side handle should be properly attached, and again, examine this for any damage. Next, look at the guard.
What gloves to wear with an angle grinder? ›
- Aurelia Gloves Ignite Orange - Nitrile - Powder Free. ...
- Black Nitrile Gloves - Powder Free. ...
- Aurelia Gloves PU Flex Palm Coated Handling Gloves. ...
- Pawa Latex Coated High Dexterity Grip Gloves. ...
- Pawa Latex Coated Water Resistant Thermal Gloves. ...
- Pawa Latex Coated Water Resistant Grip Gloves.
What are the OSHA requirements for angle grinders? ›
Angle Grinder Use
When required obtain a hot work permit before use. Keep work area clear of debris and flammable materials. Do NOT use in areas where there is grain dust or other combustible dust accumulation. speed, and the work to be performed.
Where should angle grinders not be used? ›
If there are flammable materials in the work area, they may catch fire from the flying sparks. Always check the work area before using an angle grinder, and remove or protect any combustible or flammable materials.
What is a deadman switch on a grinder? ›
These switches are usually used as a form of fail-safe where they stop a machine with no operator from a potentially dangerous action or incapacitate a device as a result of accident, malfunction, or misuse.
Do you need a certificate to use an angle grinder? ›
You do not necessarily need an abrasive wheel certificate to USE a tool upon which an abrasive wheel is mounted. You do need a certificate to change the wheel of that tool. You also need (under PUWER) training for any tool you use.
What does OSHA legally require facilities to use during grinding operations? ›
Grinding machines shall be equipped with safety guards in conformance with the requirements of American National Standards Institute, B7. 1-1970, Safety Code for the Use, Care and Protection of Abrasive Wheels, and paragraph (d) of this section.
What are the rules for grinders? ›
Grinder Safety Rules
- Abrasive wheel machinery shall not be operated without the appropriate guards in place.
- Toolrests on bench or pedestal grinders shall be set no more than 1/16 inch from the wheel.
- Never use a wheel that has been dropped or received a heavy blow, even though there may be no apparent damage.
What are the requirements for grinder guards? ›
Note: All Machine Guards Must be in Place and/or Properly Adjusted Before Use. * Side guards must cover the spindle, nut, and flange and 75% of the wheel diameter. **The work rest must be kept adjusted to within 1/8-inch of the wheel. ***Adjustable tongue guards must be kept to within 1/4-inch of the wheel.