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Hand-held angle grinders have long been used extensively in the metal fabrication and welding industries; however,
they also now are being used more frequently in the mechanical contracting, autobody, masonry, and stone-working
industries for grinding, cutting, and polishing. This expanded usage speaks to the versatility of angle grinders, which
can accommodate a range of accessories, such as resin-bonded grinding and cutting wheels; diamond wheels for
cutting and surface grinding; abrasive disks; flap disks; wire brushes; nonwoven abrasives; and even diamond coring
bits. Nonetheless, the most common applications involve grinding and cutting with resin-bonded wheels.
Practicing Grinding Safety
The old adage "accidents can happen" applies to grinding and cutting just as it does to most aspects of our daily
activities, whether it be walking down a flight of stairs or driving our cars. Safety practices that must be followed to
minimize accidents and maximize safety when using angle grinders and resin-bonded wheels apply to the wheels, the
grinder, and the operator.
The Wheel
The most common resin-bonded wheels are Type 27 (depressed center) for grinding and cutting and Type 1 (flat) for
cutting. Although these wheels are strong, they are not immune to breakage. Should a wheel break apart in use, pieces
of the wheel could strike and injure you or a co-worker. To help minimize this risk:
1. Never grind with a wheel that is designed exclusively for cutting. Such a wheel is not constructed to withstand the
side pressure exerted when grinding.
2. Always visually inspect the wheel for possible damage before mounting it on the grinder. If in doubt, don't use it.
3. Don't use a wheel if it has nicks, cracks, or if it hasBuyers'
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4. Allow newly mounted wheels to run at full no-load speed on the grinder (with guard in place) for at least oneFREEminute
1. Wear gloves and safety glasses or protective face shields. As appropriate, wear a dust mask, hearing protection, and
a workshop apron capable of stopping small abrasive or workpiece particles.
2. Do not wear loose-fitting clothing or jewelry, and keep hair away from moving parts.
3. Do not overreach. Maintain proper footing and balance at all times.
4. Position yourself to the side of the grinder opposite the wheel and wheel guard.
5. Ensure bystanders are a safe distance away from your work area.
6. Always maintain a firm grip on the tool, and position your body and arms to resist kickback forces should the wheel
jam.
7. Take care to work only with accessories designed for the grinder you are using.
8. Never run the grinder while carrying it at your side.
9. Do not expose the tool to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a power tool increases the risk of electric shock.
10. Do not abuse the power cord. Never use the cord for carrying, pulling, or unplugging the power tool.
These guidelines cover some of the more important aspects of grinding and cutting safety using resin-bonded wheels,
but this is not an exhaustive list. For further information, refer to the American National Standard titled "Safety
Requirements for the Use, Care and Protection of Abrasive Wheels," ANSI B7.1-2000. Copies are available form the
American National Standards Institute (www.ansi.org) and the Unified Abrasives Manufacturers' Association (UAMA).
Other useful publications on grinder and wheel safety are available from UAMA (www.uama.org).
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