Cut-off and grinding wheels improperly used are dangerous. The American National Standards Institute and the Occupational Safety & Health Administration have published standards concerning the proper use, handling and storage of abrasive wheels.
Machine
- Machines must be adequately guarded. Wheels can only be used on machines with safety guards that meet ANSI and OSHA specifications. Generally, a safety guard should enclose one-half the wheel.
- Machine must have proper flanges. Wheels can only be used on machines with safety guards that meet ANSI and OSHA specifications. Generally, flanges should be at least one-third the diameter of the wheel. Keep flanges in good repair and check them periodically for flatness, burrs or wear.
- Machine should be well maintained. Wheels can only be used on machines regularly maintained by qualified personnel including periodic checks of free running spindle speed.
Mounting
- Prior to mounting, all wheels must be inspected for damage and cracks. Wheels that show evidence of cracks or other damage must not be used.
- Check machine speed against maximum wheel speed. Do not use wheels where machine speed exceeds maximum speed stated on wheel.
Safe Usage
- Do not use wheels without machine guards in place.
- Do not use a wheel that has been dropped.
- Always wear impact resistant safety goggles.
- Do not exceed the maximum operating speed established for the wheel.
- Do not stand in front of wheel when machine is started.
- Allow newly mounted wheel to run for one minute with guards in place before cutting or grinding. Do not use wheels for purposes other than those for which they were designed.
