Abrasive wheels Toolbox Talk
A wheel can burst at operating speed and project lethal fragments. Only trained, authorised people should select and mount wheels, using the machine’s guard and manufacturer instructions.
Key points
- Match wheel type, dimensions and maximum speed to the machine and material.
- Inspect the wheel and markings; reject damaged or suspect wheels.
- Mount using correct flanges, blotters and tightening method.
- Keep guards fitted and correctly adjusted.
- Run newly mounted wheels in a safe position before work.
- Keep others outside the fragment and spark zone.
- Store wheels dry, supported and protected from impact.
Do
- Wear specified eye and face protection.
- Let the wheel do the work.
- Use trained wheel mounters.
Don't
- Do not exceed wheel speed.
- Do not force or twist a cutting wheel.
- Do not use a dropped wheel.
Questions to ask the group
- Do wheel and spindle speeds match?
- Who is authorised to mount it?
- Where is the likely fragment zone?
References: Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998; HSE HSG17 Safety in the use of abrasive wheels