Safety in Grinding and Cutting-Off Operations
Surface grinding and cutting-off operations often involve incidental contact with grinding wheels, cut-off wheels, and other revolving action tools and in the operation of radial arm grinding machines. Such operations create a hazard of fragments being thrown from the work as well as the hazard of grinding-wheel breakage and impacts from the cutting action.
In order to ensure that workers are provided with safe working conditions in such operations, the employer shall:
- Provide guards, shields, and/or other suitable eye protection equipment in the vicinity of all such operations.
- Establish and enforce a written safety program which leads to the operation of any grinding or cutting-off tools, (radial arbors or other tools).
- Ensure that grinding and cutting-off operations are performed in a safe and comfortable location and that sufficient lighting, ventilation and a clean working environment exists.
- Establish and enforce a written safe operating instruction which states the maximum permissible speed that a grinding or cutting-off wheel can be operated at.
- Before any grinding or cutting-off operation is begun, the employer should ensure that the operator is familiar with and understands the limitations associated with this type of equipment.
- Employers must ensure all grinding and cutting-off operations are performed in accordance with the following instructions:
- Always use the correct speed when operating a cutting or grinding wheel. Excessive speed increase the risk of fragments being thrown from the work and of flying fragments caused by a grinding-wheel breakage.
- Always use the correct type of shield, guard, or eye protection device recommended for the specific operation being performed.
- Never exceed the maximum speed as specified by the manufacturer for the particular grinding or cutting-off wheel being used.
- Always be sure that the grinding or cutting-off wheel is in good condition and appears suitable for the task being undertaken.
- Never force the work on the wheel and always ensure that it runs freely.
- Never perform grinding or cutting-off operations in a standing or kneeling position.
- Never rest objects such as parts, tools, or hands, on the spinning grinding or cutting-off wheel.
- Do not use the grinding or cutting-off wheel if it appears to have been damaged in any way.
- Inspect the grinding or cut-off wheel prior to use to check for any missing or broken segments, warping, cracking or other signs of wear.
- In a work situation, always wear safety glasses, a face shield, and a dust mask in order to protect the eyes, face, and respiratory system.
- Be sure the cutting or grinding wheel is properly secured in the machine guards and is of sufficient size and correct aluminum oxide or silicon carbide composition to prevent the workpiece from wedging in the wheel or seizing on the wheel wall.
- Do not attempt to use damaged or potentially unsafe grinding or cutting-off wheels.
- Do not drop or bump grinding or cutting-off wheels as this can cause them to become damaged or misbalanced which can lead to serious injury.
- Always use proper grinding or cutting-off wheel guards for the type of operation being performed.
- Always disconnect the grinding machine from the electricity before performing any maintenance.
- Use the grinding or cutting-off wheel according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
- Do not use a cutting or grinding wheel in a manner other than it was originally intended.
- Never grind or cut-off material while wearing jewelry or other items that may get caught in the tools.
- Always store grinding and cutting-off tools in a safe, secure location when not in use.
- Be alert and aware of the hazards associated with grinding and cutting-off operations and always use caution.
- Never operate grinding or cut-off equipment while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
By following the above safety guidelines, you can significantly reduce the risk of injury or death due to grinding and cutting-off operations. Be sure to take the time to fully understand the safety precautions associated with these operations and observe proper safety measures at all times. Grinding and cutting-off operations can be dangerous if done incorrectly, so always take the extra steps to ensure your safety.
