The rapidly growing range of Trade Professional Angle Grinders offers a variety of grinders at different power ratings, suitable for any job at hand.
As an all-round tool, angle grinders can be used to cut, grind, strip or finish surfaces. However, an angle grinder can also cause more injuries than other power tools. To be safe while using a powerful Trade Professional Angle Grinder, it is important to always follow the general rules of thumb:
1. Follow the safety procedures in the product manual.
The safety procedures in the product manual focuses on the specific angle grinder in use. By following the recommended safety instructions and procedures, it will help prevent injuries.
2. Use the correct guard supplied by the manufacturer.
It is important to not remove the safety guard. If a safety guard has been removed, the user’s hand will be closer to the unprotected blade and there is nothing to prevent the user from being hit with broken pieces. Removing the guard increases the risk of the blade being damaged when the angle grinder is put down and the weight of the grinder is resting directly on the disc. Always use both hands to keep the angle grinder steady while in use. It is advised to not change direction while cutting as angle grinders are designed to cut in a straight line.
3. Use the right disc for the intended application.
Angle grinder discs are designed for use on specific materials, for example cutting discs are used for cutting and grinding discs are used for grinding. The material being ground determines the grain, grade, structure, and bond of wheel to be selected. Do not mix the discs as it can result in the disc weakening which will cause an injury.
4. Do not use any discs with defects or discs that have reached its expiry date.
Discs that have been dropped, has defects or has reached its expiry date should not be used as cracked or weakened discs can shatter. Inspect the angle grinder for any bodily or electrical damage before using.
5. Fasten the grinding wheel nut correctly.
Be sure to fasten the grinding wheel nut correctly before using an angle grinder. Certain discs will require the nut to have the raised side down to fit the disc hole while others will require the nut to have the recessed side down.
6. Ensure that the disc fits the spindle on the angle grinder.
Ensure that the central disc hole size is not too large for the spindle on the angle grinder. If the disc hole is too big for the spindle, the disc can become unbalanced, vibrate excessively and lead to it shattering.
7. The work piece must be held secure while cutting or grinding.
An unstable work piece will influence the accuracy of the angle grinder. Keep the work piece secure to prevent the angle grinder from producing an irregular surface. It is recommended to place a strip of softening material under the mounting flanges to assist with absorbing the vibration.
8. Allow the angle grinder to get up to speed before using it.
Allow the grinder to reach full speed before using it. This allows you an opportunity to ensure that the disc is not defective, maintains the motor mechanism of the tool and prevents kickbacks that could cause serious injuries.
9. Be sure to protect your eyes, face, and ears while using an angle grinder.
Protect yourself from debris that flies around by wearing ear protectors, safety gloves, and goggles. Ensure that other people in the immediate working area of the angle grinder wear safety gear too.
10. Do not use an angle grinder near highly flammable substances.
Do not grind in a flammable area as grinding causes sparks. Keep a fire extinguisher and a well-stocked First Aid Kit close by.