Risk Assessment for Abrasive Wheels Abrasive Wheels assessment method.

Detailed risk assessment for abrasive wheels guide

T - Task assessment

The Task element examines what the job involves - the material being cut or ground, the wheel and machine needed, and the duration of the work.

Questions to consider when assessing the Task:

• What material is being cut or ground, and which wheel suits it?
• Is this a quick cut or sustained grinding that raises vibration and dust?
• Does the work need a hand-held grinder, bench grinder, or cut-off saw?
• How frequently is the task repeated?
• Can sparks or dust reach people, stock, or flammable material?
• Is there adequate rest to limit vibration exposure?
• Can the task be done with a safer method or fixed machine?

I - Individual assessment

The Individual element considers the specific person who will perform the task. People vary in their physical capabilities, and what is safe for one person may be risky for another.

Questions to consider about the Individual:

• Has the person received appropriate Abrasive Wheels Training?
• Do they have any health conditions affecting their capability?
• Are they pregnant or returning from injury?
• Do they have adequate strength for the task?
• What is their experience with this type of work?
• Is special clothing or PPE required and available?
• Are they working alone or with assistance available?

W - Wheel and machine assessment

The Wheel and Machine element examines the abrasive wheel and the tool it is fitted to. The right wheel in good condition on a well-maintained, guarded machine is fundamental to safe use.

Questions to consider about the Wheel and Machine:

• Is the wheel the correct type and bond for the material?
• Is the wheel rated at or above the machine's maximum speed (RPM)?
• Is the wheel free of cracks and chips, and within its expiry date?
• Have vitrified wheels been ring-tested before mounting?
• Are the correct flanges and blotters fitted and tightened evenly?
• Is the guard in place and the work rest correctly set?
• Is the machine well maintained, with a sound spindle and bearings?

E - Environment assessment

The Environment element considers the workplace conditions where the task is performed. Even simple tasks become hazardous in poor conditions.

Questions to consider about the Environment:

• Is there enough space to work in a safe, stable position?
• Is the floor surface level, stable, and non-slip?
• Are there obstacles, trip hazards, or stairs?
• Is the lighting adequate to see clearly?
• What is the temperature? Hot or cold conditions?
• Is there adequate ventilation?
• Are there time pressures or distractions?

Remember: A risk assessment using the risk assessment for abrasive wheels is only useful if it leads to action. Once you identify risks, you must implement controls to reduce them to the lowest practicable level.

using the risk assessment for abrasive wheels results to reduce risk

After completing a risk assessment for abrasive wheels, use the findings to implement the hierarchy of controls:

1. Eliminate - Can you remove the Abrasive Wheels task entirely through automation or process redesign?
2. Substitute - Can you swap a hand-held angle grinder for a safer machine such as a bench-mounted cut-off saw, a pedestal grinder or a dedicated dressing station?
3. Engineering controls - Can you modify workstations, improve storage heights, or provide grinding equipment?
4. Administrative controls - Can you rotate workers, limit repetitions, or improve scheduling?
5. Training - Ensure all workers receive appropriate Abrasive Wheels Training in safe techniques.