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grinder

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Toolbox Talk: Grinder Safety

Date: [DATE] Duration: [DURATION] minutes Presenter: [PRESENTER NAME] Location: [LOCATION]

Objective

The objective of this toolbox talk is to educate workers on the potential hazards associated with grinders and to provide them with the knowledge and skills necessary to operate grinders safely. By the end of this talk, participants should be able to identify grinder hazards, implement appropriate control measures, and follow safe work procedures to prevent injuries.

Introduction

Grinders are powerful tools commonly used for cutting, grinding, and polishing materials. However, they can also be dangerous if not used properly. This toolbox talk will cover the hazards associated with grinders and the steps you can take to protect yourself and your coworkers.

Presenter Note: Engage the audience by asking if anyone has personal experience related to grinder incidents or near-misses.

Key Points

  • Proper PPE is essential: Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including eye and face protection, and hand or arm protection [1].
  • Inspect equipment before use: Check abrasive wheels for flaws before installation and ensure all components are in safe operating condition [2].
  • Use the right wheel for the job: Ensure the abrasive wheel is designed for the intended grinding application [2].
  • Maintain safe operating speeds: Never operate an abrasive wheel at a speed exceeding the manufacturer's specifications [2],[3].
  • Guarding: Ensure grinders are equipped with appropriate guards [4].

Hazard Identification

Grinders can present several hazards if not used correctly:

  • Eye and face injuries: Flying debris, sparks, and dust can cause serious eye and face injuries. Always wear proper eye and face protection [1].
  • Hand and arm injuries: Contact with the rotating wheel can cause cuts, abrasions, and fractures. Use appropriate hand and arm protection [1].
  • Wheel breakage: Abrasive wheels can shatter or explode if damaged, improperly mounted, or operated at excessive speeds, potentially causing serious injuries [2].
  • Dust inhalation: Grinding operations can generate harmful dusts that can cause respiratory problems. Use proper ventilation and respiratory protection [5],[6].
  • Fire hazards: Sparks from grinding can ignite flammable materials in the work area. Ensure proper housekeeping and fire prevention measures are in place.

Presenter Note: Encourage participants to share any additional hazards they've encountered while using grinders.

Control Measures

Follow the hierarchy of controls to minimize grinder hazards:

  • Elimination: If possible, eliminate the need for grinding by using alternative methods.
  • Substitution: Use alternative tools or materials that reduce the risk of injury.
  • Engineering Controls:
    • Ensure grinders are equipped with proper guards to contain fragments of ruptured wheels [2],[4].
    • Install local exhaust ventilation systems to control dust exposure [5],[6].
  • Administrative Controls:
    • Provide training on the safe use of grinders, including hazard awareness and control measures [1].
    • Establish and enforce safe work procedures for grinder operation.
    • Regularly inspect and maintain grinders to ensure they are in safe working condition [1].
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
    • Provide and require the use of appropriate PPE, including industrial eye or face protectors and hand or arm protection [1].

Safe Work Procedures

  1. Inspect the grinder: Before each use, inspect the grinder for any damage or defects. Check the abrasive wheel for cracks or flaws [2].
  2. Verify wheel compatibility: Ensure the abrasive wheel is compatible with the grinder and rated for the grinder's maximum speed [3],[4].
  3. Mount the wheel properly: Mount the abrasive wheel according to the manufacturer's specifications, using blotters if required [2],[3].
  4. Adjust the tool rest: If using a bench grinder, adjust the tool rest so it is close to the wheel and supports the workpiece properly [2],[3].
  5. Start the grinder: Before grinding, run the wheel at full operating speed for at least one minute to check for any signs of imbalance or damage [2].
  6. Grind safely: Apply the workpiece gradually and avoid excessive pressure. Do not grind on the side of the wheel unless it is designed for that purpose [2],[3],[4].

Presenter Note: If possible, demonstrate the safe work procedure or use visual aids.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements

  • Eye and face protection: Always wear an industrial eye or face protector, such as safety glasses, goggles, or a face shield, to protect against flying debris and sparks [1].
  • Hand protection: Wear gloves or other appropriate hand protection to protect against cuts and abrasions [1].
  • Respiratory protection: If grinding operations generate dust, use a respirator to protect against inhalation of harmful particles [5],[6].

Emphasize the importance of proper PPE use and maintenance. Inspect PPE before each use and replace it if damaged.

Real-World Example or Case Study

[Provide a detailed description of a relevant real-world scenario or case study]

[Discuss what went wrong or right, and the lessons learned]

Presenter Note: Ask participants if they can relate this example to their own experiences.

Group Discussion

Discuss the following questions:

  1. What are some common mistakes people make when using grinders?
  2. How can we improve our grinder safety practices?
  3. What are the potential consequences of not following safe work procedures when using grinders?

Presenter Note: Encourage active participation and facilitate the discussion.

Emergency Procedures

Outline the steps to take in case of an emergency related to grinders:

  1. Stop the grinder: Immediately turn off the grinder and disconnect it from the power source.
  2. Provide first aid: If someone is injured, provide first aid and call for medical assistance if necessary.
  3. Report the incident: Report all incidents, including near misses, to your supervisor immediately.
  4. Investigate the cause: Investigate the cause of the incident to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Questions and Answers

Encourage participants to ask questions.

Provide answers to common questions related to the topic.

  • Q: What should I do if I notice a crack in an abrasive wheel?

A: Immediately remove the wheel from service and replace it with a new one [2],[7].

  • Q: How often should I inspect my PPE?

A: Inspect your PPE before each use and replace it if damaged or worn.

  • Q: What should I do if the grinder guard is missing or damaged?

A: Do not use the grinder until the guard is replaced or repaired [4].

Summary

Recap the main points covered in the toolbox talk:

  • Grinders can be hazardous if not used properly.
  • Always wear appropriate PPE, including eye and face protection, and hand protection [1].
  • Inspect grinders and abrasive wheels before each use [2],[7].
  • Follow safe work procedures and never exceed the manufacturer's recommended speed [2],[3].
  • Report all incidents and near misses to your supervisor immediately.

Action Items

List specific actions participants should take following this toolbox talk:

  1. Review the grinder safety procedures.
  2. Inspect your PPE and replace any damaged items.
  3. Report any grinder hazards to your supervisor.

Remember: Safety is everyone's responsibility. Use grinders safely and protect yourself and your coworkers.

Report all hazards, near-misses, and incidents to your supervisor immediately.

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7 source record(s)

Sources used for this answer

[1] Occupational Safety General Regulations (N.S. Reg. 44/99)

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- (2) No person shall operate a grinder with an abrasive wheel unless the grinder is rated to provide a number of revolutions per minute equal to or less than the rating of the abrasive wheel. - (3) An employer shall ensure that, before the installation of an abrasive wheel, the abrasive wheel is inspected by a competent person for flaws, defects or cracks. Subsection 97(3) replaced: O.I.C. 2000-130, N.S. Reg. 52/2000; amended: O.I.C. 2013-65, N.S. Reg. 53/2013. - 98 (1) An employer shall ensure that a bench grinder is fitted with a protective hood and side shield of sufficient strength to contain fragments of a ruptured wheel. - (2 ) Where a bench or pedestal grinder is used, an employer shall ensure that - (a) a tool rest is mounted on the grinder not more than 3 mm from the abrasive wheel; and - (b) the grinder is secured to prevent unintended movement. - 99 Where a pneumatic grinder is used, an employer shall ensure that the governors are maintained by a competent person. - Section 99 amended: O.I.C. 2013-65, N.S. Reg. 53/2013. - 100 Unless the manufacturer's specifications otherwise specify, an employer shall ensure that no person - (a) grinds on the side of an abrasive wheel; or - (b) adjusts a tool rest while the abrasive wheel is in motion. ## Compressed air used for cleaning 101 - (1) In this Section, 'compressed air' means air at an absolute pressure greater than 275 kPa. - (2) Where compressed air is used to clean a surface or person, an employer shall ensure that the device that is used to deliver the air is - (a) commercially manufactured and approved in the manufacturer's specifications for the purpose of cleaning a surface or person with compressed air; or - (b) certified by an engineer as adequate for the purpose of cleaning a surface or person with compressed air. \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

[2] Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 2020 (Sask. Reg. 10/2020)

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## OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY, 2020 - (3) An employer or contractor shall ensure that a worker who operates an explosive actuated fastening tool: - (a) does not leave the tool or explosive charges unattended; - (b) stores the tool and explosive charges in a locked container when not in use; and - (c) uses an industrial eye or face protector that meets the requirements of Part 7. 31 Dec 2020 c S-15.1 Reg 10 s10-10. ## Airless spray units - 10-11 If a worker is required or permitted to use an airless spray unit that is capable of operating at a pressure greater than 7 megapascals, an employer or contractor shall ensure that: - (a) the gun, the reservoir and the pump are bonded to ground with a single continuous approved bonding conductor; and - (b) the gun is fitted with suitable tip and trigger guards. 31 Dec 2020 c S-15.1 Reg 10 s10-11. ## Grinding machines - 10-12 (1) An employer or contractor shall ensure that: - (a) no abrasive wheel is operated: - (i) unless it is equipped with blotters installed according to the manufacturer's recommendations and a safeguard; or - (ii) at a speed in excess of the manufacturer's recommendations; - (b) the maximum speed of each grinder shaft in revolutions per minute is permanently marked on the grinder; and - (c) the mounting flanges for an abrasive wheel have an equal and correct diameter for the wheel. - (2) If a tool rest is installed on a fixed grinder, an employer or contractor shall ensure that the tool rest is: - (a) installed in a manner that is compatible with the work process; - (b) securely attached to the grinder; and - (c) set not more than 3 millimetres from the face of the wheel or below the horizontal centre line of the wheel. - (3) An employer or contractor shall not require or permit a worker to use the sides of an abrasive wheel for grinding unless the abrasive wheel is designed for that use.

[3] Rules for the Administration of the Oregon Safe Employment Act (General Occupational Safety and Health, Division 2, OSHA Oregon)

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## VENTILATION <!-- image --> (xi) Horizontal double-spindle disc grinder. A grinding machine carrying two power-driven, rotatable, coaxial, horizontal spindles upon the inside ends of which are mounted abrasive disc wheels used for grinding two surfaces simultaneously. (xii) Horizontal single-spindle disc grinder. A grinding machine carrying an abrasive disc wheel upon one or both ends of a power-driven, rotatable single horizontal spindle. (xiii) Polishing and buffing wheels. All power-driven rotatable wheels composed all or in part of textile fabrics, wood, felt, leather, paper, and may be coated with abrasives on the periphery of the wheel for purposes of polishing, buffing, and light grinding. (xiv) Portable grinder. Any power-driven rotatable grinding, polishing, or buffing wheel mounted in such manner that it may be manually manipulated. (xv) Scratch brush wheels. All power-driven rotatable wheels made from wire or bristles, and used for scratch cleaning and brushing purposes. (xvi) Swing-frame grinder. Any power-driven rotatable grinding, polishing, or buffing wheel mounted in such a manner that the wheel with its supporting framework can be manipulated over stationary objects. (xvii) Velocity pressure (vp). The kinetic pressure in the direction of flow necessary to cause a fluid at rest to flow at a given velocity. It is usually expressed in inches of water gauge. (xviii) Vertical spindle disc grinder. A grinding machine having a vertical, rotatable power-driven spindle carrying a horizontal abrasive disc wheel. - (2) Application. Wherever dry grinding, dry polishing or buffing is performed, and employee exposure, without regard to the use of respirators, exceeds the permissible exposure limits prescribed in §1910.1000 or other sections of this part, a local exhaust ventilation system shall be provided and used to maintain employee exposures within the prescribed limits. ## (3) Hood and branch pipe requirements. - (i) Hoods connected to exhaust…

[4] Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 2020 (Sask. Reg. 10/2020)

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Source excerpt

## OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY, 2020 S-15.1 REG 10 - (4) An employer or contractor shall ensure that a worker who operates a grinder: - (a) is provided with and uses the following personal protective equipment that meets the requirements of Part 7: - (i) an industrial eye or face protector; - (ii) hand or arm protection; and - (b) is instructed in the potential hazards and safe use of the grinder. 31 Dec 2020 c S-15.1 Reg 10 s10-12. ## Chain saws - 10-13 (1) An employer, contractor or supplier shall ensure that a chain saw is: - (a) equipped with an effective chain brake or a chain and bar that is designed to minimize the possibility of a kickback; and - (b) designed and constructed so that the chain stops when the engine is at idle. - (2) If a chain saw is to be used by a worker operating from an elevated cage or basket, the width of which is less than twice the length of the chain saw, an employer or contractor shall ensure that a secondary platform is installed outside the cage or basket and is used to store the chain saw and to start the chain saw engine. - (3) An employer or contractor shall ensure that a worker who operates a chain saw: - (a) stops the chain while the worker is walking with the saw; - (b) does not operate the saw at a height that is higher than the worker's shoulder level; - (c) holds the saw firmly in both hands while operating the saw; and - (d) maintains the chain saw, cutting chain and safeguards in safe operating condition. - (4) A worker who operates a chain saw: - (a) shall stop the chain while the worker is walking with the saw; - (b) shall not operate the saw at a height that is higher than the worker's shoulder level; - (c) shall hold the saw firmly in both hands while operating the saw; - (d) shall maintain the chain saw, cutting chain and safeguards in safe operating condition; and - (e) shall maintain the chain saw so that the chain stops when the engine is at idle. 31 Dec 2020 c S-15.1 Reg 10 s10-13.

[5] Occupational Health and Safety Code

Page 203

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Source excerpt

- (b) runs in a trough strong enough to carry the weight of a broken chain, rope, belt or other material that falls from the conveyor. - 372 (2) A worker must use a walkway to cross over a conveyor belt if - (a) the conveyor belt is moving, or - (b) the conveyor belt is motionless but has not been locked out in accordance with Part 15. - 372 (3) A worker must not cross under a moving conveyor belt except at a walkway. ## Crossing conveyor belts 373 (1) A worker must cross over a conveyor belt using a bridge that is at least 1 metre wide and has adequate guardrails. 373 (2) Despite subsection (1), a worker may cross over a conveyor belt at a location other than a bridge if the belt is locked out. 373 (3) A worker must cross under a moving conveyor belt at a designated place where the worker is protected from moving parts of the conveyor and from material falling from the belt. ## Actuated fastening tools 374 A worker must not permit the trigger of an actuated fastening tool to be mechanically held in the 'ON' position unless the manufacturer's specifications permit the tool to be used that way. ## Grinders - 375 (1) An employer must ensure that - (a) a grinder is operated in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications and, subject to subsection (2), equipped with a grinder guard, - (b) the maximum safe operating speed of the grinder accessory in revolutions per minute is equal to or greater than the maximum speed of the grinder shaft in revolutions per minute, and - (c) if a hand held grinder is used, the object being ground cannot move. - 375 (2) An employer must ensure that the guard of a hand held grinder covers the area of the grinder accessory contained within an arc of at least 120 degrees of the accessory's circumference. 375 (3) An employer must ensure that if a tool rest is installed on a fixed grinder, the manufacturer's specifications are followed if they exist, or the tool rest is - (a) installed in a manner compatible with the work proces…

[6] Rules for the Administration of the Oregon Safe Employment Act (Construction, Division 3, OSHA Oregon)

Page 122

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Source excerpt

Division 3 AO 3-2019 Oregon Administrative Rules Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division - (xvi) Swing-frame grinder . Any power-driven rotatable grinding, polishing, or buffing wheel mounted in such a manner that the wheel with its supporting framework can be manipulated over stationary objects. - (xvii) Velocity pressure (vp). The kinetic pressure in the direction of flow necessary to cause a fluid at rest to flow at a given velocity. It is usually expressed in inches of water gauge. - (xviii) Vertical spindle disc grinder . A grinding machine having a vertical, rotatable power-driven spindle carrying a horizontal abrasive disc wheel. - (2) Application. Wherever dry grinding, dry polishing or buffing is performed, and employee exposure, without regard to the use of respirators, exceeds the permissible exposure limits prescribed in 1926.55 or other pertinent sections of this part, a local exhaust ventilation system shall be provided and used to maintain employee exposures within the prescribed limits. - (3) Hood and branch pipe requirements. - (i) Hoods connected to exhaust systems shall be used, and such hoods shall be designed, located, and placed so that the dust or dirt particles shall fall or be projected into the hoods in the direction of the air flow. No wheels, discs, straps, or belts shall be operated in such manner and in such direction as to cause the dust and dirt particles to be thrown into the operator's breathing zone. - (ii) Grinding wheels on floor stands, pedestals, benches, and special-purpose grinding machines and abrasive cutting-off wheels shall have not less than the minimum exhaust volumes shown in Table D-57.1 with a recommended minimum duct velocity of 4,500 feet per minute in the branch and 3,500 feet per minute in the main. The entry losses from all hoods except the vertical-spindle disc grinder hood, shall equal 0.65 velocity pressure for a straight takeoff and 0.45 velocity pressure for a tapered takeoff. The entry loss for …

[7] General Regulation (N.B. Reg. 91-191)

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Source excerpt

- (b) of a grinder output shaft is identified on the grinder. - 244 (2) An employer shall ensure that an abrasive wheel is - (a) checked for flaws before installation, - (b) fitted with a protective hood of sufficient strength to contain fragments of ruptured wheels, and - (c) mounted in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications. - 244 (3) An employer shall ensure that a tool rest is mounted on a bench grinder as close as is safely possible to the abrasive wheel. - 244 (4) Before applying any work to an abrasive wheel, an employee shall run the wheel at full operating speed in accordance with the manufacturer's specifica -tions. ## 244 (5) An employee shall not - (a) operate an abrasive wheel at a speed in excess of the speed set out in the manufacturer's specifications, - (b) do grinding on the side of an abrasive wheel un -less the wheel has been designed for that purpose, or - (c) adjust a tool rest while the abrasive wheel is in motion. ## Cutting or Shaping Machines ## Cutting or shaping machines ## 245 (1) In this section 'push block' means a block of wood with a handle similar to that of a hand plane and with a shoulder at the rear, that is used to feed material into a machine and is of sufficient length to protect an employee from coming into contact with the machine; ( bloc poussoir ) 'push stick' means a narrow strip of wood or other soft material with a notch cut into one end that is used to feed material into a machine and is of sufficient length to protect an employee from coming into contact with the machine. ( poussoir ) - b) de l'arbre secondaire d'une meule est identifié sur la meule. - 244 (2) L'employeur doit s'assurer qu'une roue abrasi -ve est - a) vérifiée avant son installation pour découvrir toute défectuosité, - b) montée avec un capuchon protecteur d'une résis -tance suffisante pour contenir tout fragment de roues brisées, et - c) installée conformément aux spécif…

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