Uncover the Challenges Faced in Abrasive Wheels Operations

Many professionals face risks due to inadequate training in safe handling of abrasive wheels. Common issues include improper wheel installation, maintenance mistakes, and safety breaches.

Introduction  

Pragmatic Consulting Ltd is as an EUSR Approved training provider offers a comprehensive solution, designed to equip you and your teams with critical skills and knowledge for handling and using abrasive wheels effectively and safety.

We have seen recently an increase in eLearning for Abrasive Wheels which we personally disagree with, our team has investigated many abrasive wheels incidents over the years and the purpose of this blog is to highlight the benefits of practical training over eLearning.  

The HSE highlights that abrasive wheels and especially angle grinders are a significant cause of workplace injury, with nearly half of all of these accidents attributed to unsafe work systems or operator error, and around 5,000 injuries are recorded annually in the UK.

The Limitations of eLearning in Abrasive Wheels Training  

• Lack of hands-on experience  
• Struggles to replicate practical skills of mounting, balancing and physically using
• abrasive wheels
• Limited engagement and retention of information  
• No practical assessment of delegates
• Delegates may not fully understand the safety measures which can lead to increased accidents on site.

The Advantages of Practical Abrasive Wheels Training  

Real-world application of training under supervision with various practical activities such as mounting, balancing and physically using different types of abrasive wheels effectively and safety to polish, cut and grind a variety of materials.

The EUSR Approved courses covers theory and practical application of the below

• Understanding abrasive wheel markings
• Understanding the different type of abrasive wheels
• Choosing the right wheel and tools for the job
• Understanding equipment handling  
• Recognising hazards in a practical setting  
• Correct storage & handling
• Safety Inspections and selection of the appropriate PPE
• Mounting, balancing, polishing and cutting with a 4 inch angle grinder  
• Mounting, balancing, polishing and cutting with a 9 inch angle grinder
• Mounting, balancing, polishing and cutting with a stihl saw
• We can also cover Electrical and or Battery Bench Grinder training
• Immediate feedback and skill assessment of delegates 

Legal Requirements

• The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998, which replaced the Abrasive Wheels Regulations 1970, is the main legislation for work equipment, including abrasive wheels.
• PUWER requires that employers supply suitable and safe work equipment, including abrasive wheels, and ensure they are maintained and inspected.
• All operators must have sufficient training in the use of abrasive wheels and be supplied with adequate protective clothing.
• The workplace must have adequate health and safety measures, including guarding, emergency stop mechanisms, warning devices, visible markings, and means of isolation from energy sources.

Conclusion  

• Practical training for abrasive wheels significantly enhances workplace safety and operator competency by providing hands-on experience in handling, mounting, and physically using these tools, ultimately reducing accidents and improving efficiency.
• Training is essential for anyone working with abrasive wheels, covering all aspects of their use, handling, and storage. 
• Training should cover how to handle and store abrasive wheels correctly, as incorrect handling and poor storage can damage the wheels and increase the risk of injury. 

Find out more about our EUSR Approved Abrasive Wheels - Mounting and Practical Use of Equipment training course.

Read more about Abrasive Wheels in The Consutruction Industry - Safe Usage & Common Risks.

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