TOOL BOX TALK

9. ABRASIVE WHEELS
o Only authorized and trained workers may change the abrasive disk of a
grinder or a chop saw.
o Inspect the grinder or chop saw before using it. Any damage to the
cables, trigger, guard or disk must be reported and the tool returned to
stores for repair. Never use a damaged wheel or one that has been
dropped.
o Always wear the correct goggles when using a tool with an abrasive
disk.
o The rotation speed of the disk must always be equal or less than the
rated rotation speed of the tool. The types of disk must also match the
material being cut.
o When using a grinder or chop saw make sure those workers who can
be reached by the sparks are protected from harm.
o Do not cut or grind near flammable materials. Always have a fire
extinguisher available.
o Keep fingers away from spinning wheels even after the trigger has been
released.
o When not in use always unplug the tool.
o Never apply heavy pressure to the wheel when cutting or grinding as
this may induce the wheel to break.
o Never use the side of a chop saw blade for grinding eg. Reinforcing
bars.
Questions:
• Who can change an abrasive wheel?
• What must be done to a grinder when not in use?
• What PPE is most important when using an abrasive wheel tool?

Do you have any questions?