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Follow CCOHS on:

Guards must be provided and adjusted to protect you. Replace damaged guards because if an abrasive wheel breaks while rotating, it can cause a serious injury.
Clean and service grinders according to manufacturers' recommendations. Record all maintenance for grinders.
Ensure that a machine will not operate when unattended by checking the dead-man (constant pressure) switch.
Wear safety glasses, goggles, and face protection to protect against flying particles. Gloves, aprons, metatarsal safety boots, and respiratory protection may be required, depending on the work.
Ensure the floor around the work area is clean.
Do not use wheels that are cracked or those that excessively vibrate.
Do not operate grinder on wet floors.
Use both hands when holding the grinder.
Keep the power cord away from the grinding wheel and the material being ground.

The maximum speed in revolutions per minute (rpm) is marked on every wheel. Never exceed this speed.
Check that the wheel speed marked on the wheel is equal to or greater than the maximum speed of the grinder.
Measure the speed of any new machine. Take several readings.
Measure the speed of governor-controlled air-driven grinders after twenty hours of use or every week, whichever comes first. Measure the speed after any repairs.
Measure the speed of electrically driven grinders monthly and after repairs.

Check that grinders do not vibrate or operate roughly.
Use racks or hooks to store portable grinders.
Stand away from the wheel when starting grinders. Warn co-workers to do the same.
Inspect all wheels for cracks and defects before mounting.
Ensure that the mounting flange surfaces are clean and flat.
Ensure the wheel guard is in place while operating the grinder.
Use the mounting blotters supplied.
Run newly mounted wheels at operating speed for 1 minute before grinding.
Wear appropriate eye, ear and face protection. Use other personal protective equipment or clothing, as required under the circumstances.

Avoid using grinders near flammable materials.
Do not clamp portable grinders in a vise for grinding hand-held work.
Do not use any liquid coolants with portable grinders.
Do not force wheels onto a grinder that is the wrong size or change mounting hole sizes.
Do not tighten the mounting nut excessively.
Do not put the grinder on the floor or working surface until the wheel has stopped turning.
Do not keep any materials close to the grinding wheel when it is not in use.

Document last updated on March 1, 2009