Reports indicate users in the abrasive wheel industry break approximately one abrasive wheel per day. Most of these breakages are caused by human error, and generally go unreported. Our trainers often report that up to 90% of machines examined need urgent repair or modification to make them safe for use. In some instances minor cost is involved in improving the safety of the machine. However ignoring repairs and regular servicing can easily lead to premature damage to a wheel that may involve part or all of the wheel leaving the machine at up to 180 m.p.h. with disastrous consequences.
Our trainers have also noted the link between inefficiency of the abrasive process and safety on the one hand and poorly maintained machinery and inefficient wheels on the other. Simply stated the most efficient abrasive wheel, in the main, will be the safest. Therefore the most inefficient will be the unsafest.
The following are safety procedures often ignored by users:
- Not checking either the maximum speed of the machine and wheel
- Modifying or removing guards on portable or fixed grinders
- Using the wrong wheel for the material to be cut or ground
- Failure to inspect, examine and test wheels prior to mounting the wheel on the machine
- Incorrectly mounting the wheel on the machine
- Allowing a wheel to reduce in diameter ignoring the consequence of reduced surface speed
- Incorrect or damaged flanges
- Not checking use by dates
- Poor maintenance of machine
- Insecure pedestal and bench grinders
- Using damaged, incorrect or faulty wheels
- Poor or incorrect personal protective equipment
- Improper use of the machine or wheel
More information on the dangers! |
