Grinder Safety Procedures

Grinders are used for a variety of purposes in many industries. Tasks such as simple sharpening of knives or tools, removing imperfections on surfaces and working with concrete call for grinders. OSHA, The Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration, has set regulations for using grinders. Also in this category are the safe use of power tools. Workers should be trained in the safe use of grinders and other power tools before attempting to use these tools.

Types and Purpose of Grinders

• Grinding tools operate with the use of abrasive wheels, which operate at a high rate of speed. The flying debris, sparks and other hazards cause concern for the safety of the operator. There are three main types of grinders.

  Bench or pedestal grinders are types of grinding tools that use two wheels instead of one. Used for sharpening or forming tools, as well as smoothing rough surfaces, they are essential in any type of finishing or roughing process.

  Belt grinders are used in processes that involve metals with coated abrasives. The belt grinder operates much like a belt sander used for wood instead of metal.

  Hand grinders are portable tools that have a moving grinding wheel. These are used for cutting, smoothing and shaping materials. Surface, cylindrical and jig grinders are considered portable grinding tools.

Bench Grinder Safety

• Workers should inspect grinders and safety guards before using the machines. Crack and chips can cause the grinder wheel to disintegrate during use. Machine guards are required.

  Workers are warned not to adjust a workpiece or any devices while the machine is running. In addition, a worker should never walk away from an operating grinder. A tool rest is used to stabilize the workpiece.

  Safety precautions also include specifications as to the placement of the workpiece, warnings about gaps between the wheel and tool rest and how to safely hold the grinder.

Hand Grinder Safety

• Regulations for abrasive tools, another name for grinders, are listed in the hand and power tool safety section of OSHA Standards 1926.303. Since the hand grinder, also called a portable grinder, is not fastened to a bench or pedestal, it is considered a hand/power tool.

  Workers are warned to use the correct tool for the job at hand, and only use tools in good condition. Some of the hazards of hand grinders include flying particles of metal or other fragments, burns from coming into contact with the grinding wheel, electric shock when used in an improper setting and tripping over power cords. A worker should always inspect a portable grinder before use, checking for damage, proper wheel guards and secure handles..

Personal Protective Equipment

• Workers using grinders should wear the proper PPE. Safety goggles or a clear face shield protect the eyes and face. Leather welding gloves will protect hands. Hearing protection is always needed, whether a worker wears ear plugs or ear muffs.

  Also required in most cases are a leather safety jacket, long pants and leather top safety boots.