Abrasive Wheels
67% of accidents involving abrasive wheels are due to the wrong wheel being fitted.
Why: Only a competent, trained, and authorised person should use and fit abrasive wheels.
Outline: This talk will cover: Hazards and the safe use of portable and bench mounted abrasive wheels.
Hazards
- Over-speeding: The speed of the wheel should not exceed the maximum permissible speed of the wheel. (Over-speeding causes 33% of accidents).
- Do not exert heavy pressure on the wheel.
- Never use the side of the wheel.
- Keep your fingers away from the cutting edge of the wheel.
- Exploding wheel caused by; out of date or wheel contaminated by fluids such as lubricants.
- Consider other hazards, such as noise.
- Eye protection MUST worn at ALL times.
Safe Use of Portable Wheels
- Do not mount an abrasive wheel unless suitably trained and authorised to do so.
- Only reinforced discs are to be used on handheld machines.
- Check that the maximum wheel speed is greater than the maximum spindle speed before fitting.
- Ensure the correct wheel is fitted for the task (Cutting/Grinding etc).
- Consider the hazards presented when wearing loose clothing.
- Be aware of other workers in your area; do not put them at risk by your actions/work processes.
Q: What type of discs should be fitted to portable machines?
Q: Who should mount and adjust abrasive wheels?
Using Bench Mounted Abrasive Wheels
- Adjust the tool rest as close to the wheel as possible.
- The safety vision panel is to remain in position at all times.
- Safety vision panels should be clean and serviceable, if not replace them.
- Keep your fingers below the tool rest level.
- Use the correct grade of wheel for the task in hand.
- Keep the face of the wheel evenly dressed.
- Run any replacement wheel for a full minute before attempting to use it. Stand clear during the test.
- Stop the wheel when not in use.
Q. How long should a replacement wheel be run before using it?
Q. Name two safety considerations regarding fixed machines.
Abrasive wheels should only be fitted and dressed by a Trained and Competent person. |