How To Avoid Angle Grinder Accidents (7 Different Types)

An example of an abrasive wheel is an angle grinder. They are a type of portable power tool used for cutting, grinding, and polishing that is frequently seen on construction sites. Safety when using an angle grinder is essential. Serious accidents can occur when a tool is misused or when the incorrect wheel is used for operation.

With an angle grinder, you can quickly and efficiently cut and polish a wide range of surfaces and materials. However, they can also be harmful. An example of an abrasive wheel is an angle grinder. They can easily cut through rigid materials since they are solid and sharp.

According to accident statistics, operator mistakes or an unsafe work environment are to blame for over half of all incidents utilizing abrasive wheels.

To prevent injuries, you must operate an angle grinder properly. Angle grinder safety involves more than just changing the wheels; it also involves using the machine properly, choosing the appropriate attachments, and setting up essential safeguards. You could be harmed in a number of ways by selecting the incorrect tool or wheel for the job, including:

• Slashes in the skin.
• Removal of fingers.
• Eye wounds.
• Head injuries.
• Foot wounds.
• Additional impact wounds.

Numerous of these injuries can be brought on by contact with the tool itself, flying metallic and abrasive particles, and expelled debris. Angle grinder accidents can take many different forms.

TYPES OF ANGLE GRINDER ACCIDENTS

1. GETTING IN TOUCH WITH THE WHEEL

Angle grinders can easily cut through human skin and bones because they can do the same with stone, concrete, metal, and other hard materials. Deep wounds and even amputations might result from contact with the wheel while it is moving.

Inadequate guarding increases the risk of this kind of harm, so make sure it's in place before using. When using an angle grinder, constantly stay attentive and maintain attention. Wear appropriate gloves to maintain a firm grip.

2. WHEEL FAILURE

Every abrasive wheel has the potential to shatter. Angle grinders must be used carefully, with proper mounting and disc inspection, to reduce this risk.

By being aware of the restrictions of the disc you are using, you can prevent or lower the danger of a burst disc. Use only discs that are in good condition, within their shelf life and their speed restrictions. Each wheel has a maximum speed and an expiration date; never go above these limits.

Many accidents occur as a result of wheels being mounted improperly, improvised, or on equipment not intended for that type of disc. If you are qualified and equipped to do so, only put abrasive wheels on a corresponding angle grinder for the wheel.

3. GETTING HIT BY PROJECTILES

Projectiles are materials and particles that fly. They can also occur when the material is being cut or ground, which is addressed in point 2 above.

Projectiles cannot always be avoided, but the danger can be reduced by selecting the proper wheel with quality abrasives, tool, and material settings.

You must use personal protective equipment (PPE), notably eye and head protection, as an angle grinder safety measure to prevent harm because the risk of projectiles can only be decreased and not eliminated.

4. KICKBACK

Accidents resulting from kickbacks can be severe and even lethal. Kickback occurs when the angle grinder grabs or becomes stuck while cutting material. Kickback can make the user lose control of the instrument, and if it hits the user or falls, it could injure their feet and legs.

If you are running at improper speed or with the wrong wheel, kickback is more likely to occur. By utilizing the appropriate wheel for the material and speeding up your tool, you can lessen the chance of kickback.

Kickback accidents are also more likely to occur when the wheels are dull and incorrectly positioned. Make sure you receive training in wheel mounting so you can replace your wheels as they wear out. Always put on personal protective equipment (PPE), including eye, head, foot, and hand protection, as well as appropriate clothes, when using angle grinders.

5. ENTANGLEMENT

Wearing the appropriate clothing and safety gear can help protect you. However, incorrect attire can potentially result in an angle grinder accident. There is a chance of entanglement, just like with any rotating disc.

Long, baggy sleeves and loose-fitting ties might become caught between the wheel and the workpiece. Long hair can tangle in the tool's moving components and drag your head in the direction of the blade.

Avoid displaying jewelry or loose clothing, and pull back long hair. Rags and rubbish should also be taken out of the working area and placed away from the wheel because they can entangle as well.

6. FIRE

An angle grinder will likely generate a lot of sparks. Make sure you are using an angle grinder in a safe area because you might be unable to stop it. For instance, using an angle grinder adjacent to a petrol station or where combustible or explosive materials are stored or used increases the chance of a fire and explosion.

The flying sparks could cause any flammable materials near the work area to catch fire. Before using an angle grinder, always inspect the work area and remove or secure any flammable or combustible objects.

7. ELECTRIC SHOCK

Since many angle grinders are electric, you should also take portable electrical equipment accidents into account. Check the tool visually before using it, test portable appliances on a regular basis, and run cables away from the wheel to prevent contact.

CONCLUSION

Angle grinder safety concerns and various sorts of angle grinder accidents were the main topics of this article. However, it is also essential to keep in mind that there are certain additional dangers to managing. Although these dangers may not result in accidents, they might harm your health if used frequently.

Users of angle grinders are subject to vibration. With continued exposure, health issues like hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) may develop.

Check the amount of vibration you are exposed to. You can use our free HAVS calculator to determine when to take action or stop using it to determine whether you need to reduce exposure.

Additionally, you must be mindful of dust exposures, particularly those caused by silica, wood, and other dangerous materials. Put on a dust mask to protect your lungs and dampen the cause of the problem. Likewise, guard your hearing. Check the noise exposure for persons using the tool and others close by since angle grinders can be noisy tools.