Angle Grinder Safety

BE PREPARED

Always wear safety glasses, a face shield, protective gloves, suitable clothing, steel toe boots, and hearing protection. Use a dust mask if necessary.  Keep other people away while using the tool and ensure that clothes, jewelry, and long hair do not get in the way of your work.

CONCENTRATE

It is important to be alert and watch what you’re doing, when using an angle grinder. Do not use the tool if you are tired or under the influence of medication or alcohol. A moment of inattention can result in serious personal injury.

BEFORE YOU START

Inspect the tool before each use, to make sure the cutting edge is sharp, the on/off switch works, the clamp nut is secure, ventilation openings are clear, and it is not vibrating. Turn the wheel guard so that the closed area is towards you, to guard against broken disc fragments.

DISC JOCKEY

Make sure the angle grinder is unplugged, before changing discs. Never use a cutting disc for grinding or vice versa: use the correct disc for the job. Never use damaged, dropped, or damp discs.

A SOLID FOOTING

Switch the angle grinder on, before you present it to the work area. Always ensure that you have a solid footing and never over-reach; good balance gives you better control in unexpected situations. Always use the side handle, and hold the tool firmly with two hands. Never force the tool; always use the correct tool for your application. 

STEADY ON

It is equally important that the object you are cutting or grinding is still and steady: depending on the size and shape of the object you may need to use clamps, a vice, or another person to hold the object steady.

SPARKS FLY

Ensure that the sparks produced during grinding cannot set fire to anything close by. Protect flammable materials by covering them with flame-resistant covers, and have a fire extinguisher at hand. Be aware that the angle grinder runs for approximately five seconds after switch-off.