Most abrasive wheels, discs, belts, etc. rotate at high speeds in order to perform their function effectively. Accidental contact with one of these products during rotation may result in an injury ranging from minor (cut/abrasion) to severe (loss of a body part). When using an abrasive product always consider the following:

 

• Pay attention! Never make contact with a rotating object.

• Contain long hair and do not wear loose clothing, or dangling objects such as ID badges, ties, jewelry, or anything that may catch on the rotating object.

• If gloves are worn, they must be tight fitting.

• Prevent accidental start-up of the machine during abrasive product changes or during equipment repair/maintenance by disconnecting machines from their power source.

• Most (there are some exceptions) abrasive products require a guard. Guards have many functions such as; protecting the operator from a breakage, deflecting sparks, collecting dust/swarf and aiding in keeping body parts from coming into contact with rotating abrasive product. Always use a properly adjusted guard.

 

    Avoid contact with rotating abrasive products! A cut-off wheel will cut, a grinding wheel will grind, and a coated abrasive product will abrade. These products cannot tell the difference between a work piece (like steel) and you! So remember, as always, play it safe at the wheel and avoid bodily contact with any rotating objects!