Angle Grinder Toolbox Talk | Environment, Health and Safety (2024)

FAQs

What are the OSHA rules for angle grinders? ›

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.

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.

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.

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.

The ban is due to the high proportion of serious injuries that result from the use of these tools.

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.

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 safety checks are there on a grinder? ›

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.