Cutting and grinding Toolbox Talk
Cutting and grinding create high-energy fragments, sparks, dust, noise and vibration. Match the machine, guard, disc and controls to the material before starting.
Key points
- Confirm the material and check for hidden services, coatings and hazardous dust.
- Select the correct machine, wheel or blade and speed rating.
- Inspect guards, handles, discs and cables before use.
- Use extraction or water suppression suitable for the material and tool.
- Secure the work and direct sparks away from people, combustibles and cylinders.
- Establish an exclusion zone and wear specified eye, face, hearing and respiratory protection.
- Let the tool stop before setting it down.
Do
- Use two hands where designed.
- Allow abrasive wheels to reach speed safely.
- Replace damaged consumables.
Don't
- Do not remove guards.
- Do not side-grind with a cutting disc.
- Do not cut unknown tanks, pipes or coated materials.
Questions to ask the group
- Is the disc correct and within date where marked?
- What dust or fume will be generated?
- Where will sparks travel?
References: Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998; Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002; HSE HSG17 Safety in the use of abrasive wheels