Code: MECH 100.

RISK ASSESSMENT – GRINDING

Prior to work commencing

1. Must have appropriate PPE – gloves, goggles, safety boots, overalls.
2. Must have appropriate tools and equipment for task.
3. Consider risks and hazards in work area and refer any concerns to supervisor. Are
relevant permits in place?
4. Check whether isolation of services is necessary. Refer to supervisor if in doubt.

Hazards
1. Bursting of grinding wheels or discs.
2. Flying debris and sparks from grinding wheel and/or workpiece.
3. Cuts or burns from workpiece.
4. Risk of fire in surrounding area due to sparks from grinding wheel.
5. Contact with hot fluids and pipework, contaminated waste, sharp items, sewage,
radioactive waste, hazardous substances (including asbestos).
6. Damaged pipework, metal, ceramic and glass components.
7. Exposure to hazardous gases and vapours.
8. Compressed gases.
9. Flammable gases, explosion, fire (eg hot work).
10. Working at height (see separate Risk Assessment GEN 7.0 Working at Heights).
11. Working in confined spaces (see separate Risk Assessments GEN 8.0.1 and GEN 8.0.2).

Harm
1. Minor cuts and abrasions to fatalities.
2. Burns from hot work.
3. Respiratory problems due to dust.

Persons at risk
1. Estates mechanical maintenance staff.
2. Other workers and persons in the vicinity of work.

Control measures

1. PPE and equipment for job in hand. Safety goggles or visor must be worn, arms must be
covered, long hair must be tied back, leather gloves with cuffs, safety boots, overalls.
2. Correct tools and equipment.
3. Ensure work area suitably cleared and appropriate warning signs posted.
4. Ensure appropriate access equipment is properly erected and inspected (see separate Risk
Assessment sheet).
5. Isolate services as appropriate before commencing work.
6. Grinding wheels must only be changed by authorised personnel.
7. Only ferrous metals should be ground.
8. The grinding of non-ferrous metals (eg brass, copper and aluminium) or of wood or
plastic will cause clogging of the grindstone/disc which may lead to the grindstone
bursting.

CONT’D …

MECH 100.0 Grinding 1 23/02/2004

9. When using grindstones ensure that all toolrests are positioned as close as possible to the
grindstone and that the face of the stone is not allowed to become excessively grooved.
10. Hand held grinding machines (angle grinders, still saws etc) must not be used without
their wheel guards being fitted and correctly positioned.
11. If hot work is necessary or if there is a risk of fire ensure a fire extinguisher is to hand.
(available from stores).
12. Safety spectacles are NOT adequate protection for grinding operations. If spectacles are
needed goggles must be worn over them.
13. Up-to-date immunisation for Hepatitis B.
14. If work is in confined space (see separate Risk Assessment Code 8.0.1 and 8.0.2) and/or
hazardous gases/vapours may be encountered. Check with Gas Monitor before entry (see
Confined Spaces Protocol for Gas Testing).
15. Drain off system and control spillages as far as possible. In public areas ensure slip
hazard warning signs are posted and clear spillages as soon as possible.
16. Re-instate services and test.
17. Replace panels, ceiling tiles etc. Inform supervisor if access panels damaged or remedial
work required.

On completion
1. Tidy up, clear away debris and dispose to appropriate site.
2. Report completion to supervisor with details of any consequential damage or remedial
work required.
3. Sign off any relevant permits.

MECH 100.0 Grinding 2 23/02/2004