Abrasive Wheels Training Certificate Guarding Requirements 2

Question 1

What standard covers the design and testing of guards for portable grinding machines in the UK?

Accepted Answer

BS EN 60745 (for handheld motor-operated tools) and BS EN 12413 (for abrasive wheels)

Answer

BS EN 60745 is the harmonised standard for handheld motor-operated tools including angle grinders, specifying guard design, dimensions, and testing. BS EN 12413 covers the abrasive product itself. Both are relevant to angle grinder safety — the machine and wheel must each comply with their respective standards.

Question 2

What does a 'dead man's switch' (hold-to-run control) provide on angle grinders?

Accepted Answer

The grinder stops immediately when the operator releases the trigger, preventing continued rotation if the tool is dropped or control is lost

Answer

A hold-to-run (dead man's switch) trigger ensures the angle grinder stops immediately when the operator releases grip, for example if they trip, lose control, or are injured. This prevents a dropped spinning grinder from continuing to rotate uncontrolled, reducing contact injury risk. PUWER requires controls that are safe in foreseeable fault conditions.

Question 3

What additional guarding is required when angle grinding near pedestrians or other workers?

Accepted Answer

A spark containment screen or fire blanket placed between the grinding area and other workers, plus warning signs and exclusion zone

Answer

Grinding sparks can travel 3–10 metres. Workers in the vicinity must be protected by spark containment screens or fire blankets. An exclusion zone must be established around grinding operations and marked with warning signs. Only authorised workers wearing appropriate PPE should be within the exclusion zone.

Question 4

What is the purpose of the supplementary side handle on an angle grinder?

Accepted Answer

To provide a two-handed grip, improving control and reducing the risk of the tool being pulled out of control by reaction torque or snatch

Answer

The supplementary handle allows the operator to control the angle grinder with both hands, providing better control against reaction torque, kickback, and tool snatch. Two-handed operation also keeps the operator's body in a more controlled, balanced position. Using an angle grinder with one hand increases the risk of losing control.

Question 5

What must be inspected on angle grinder guards before each use?

Accepted Answer

Check for cracks, bending, or deformation (which would indicate previous disc burst), check all fixing points are secure, and confirm the guard is correctly positioned and adjusted

Answer

Guards must be inspected before each use: cracks, bends, or deformation indicate the guard has already been stressed by a disc burst and may not provide adequate protection in a further incident. Loose fixings could allow the guard to shift during use. A damaged or deformed guard must be replaced before the machine is used.

Abrasive Wheels Practice Test

Abrasive Wheels Practice Test

Abrasive Wheels Training Certificate Guarding Requirements 2