Portable abrasive grinding, cutting, polishing, and wire buffing wheels create special safety problems because they may throw off flying fragments. Abrasive wheel tools must be equipped with guards.
Scope
OSHA’s requirements for portable abrasive wheels (grinders) applies to all employees who use the equipment, with a few exceptions for wheels made of certain materials or sizes, or that operate at certain speeds.
Key definitions
- Ring test: A test that OSHA requires employers to perform prior to mounting a wheel on grinding equipment to uncover any damage or cracks. The test is performed by tapping the wheel at various points with a non-metallic tool.
Summary of requirements
- Ensure all portable abrasive wheels are guarded.
- Make sure abrasive wheel speeds are rated for the grinder.
- Train all operators of abrasive wheels.
- Ensure all wheels are ring tested prior to mounting.
- Ensure workers wear proper eye protection and other PPE when operating grinders.
