Angle Grinder Safety Toolbox Talk
The angle grinder is one of the most dangerous hand tools on site. Discs shatter, the tool kicks back, and sparks start fires. Most grinder injuries are to the face, hands and legs, and many come from removing the guard or using the wrong disc.
Takes about 5 minutes.
Key points to read out
- Use the right disc for the material and the job. Never grind with a cutting disc.
- Check the disc speed rating matches or exceeds the grinder speed, and check the disc is not past its expiry date.
- Never fit a bigger disc than the grinder is designed for.
- Keep the guard on and adjusted between you and the disc. Use the side handle and both hands.
- Unplug or remove the battery before changing discs.
- Clamp the work. Do not hold small pieces in your hand.
- Stand to the side when starting and let the disc reach full speed before cutting.
- Wear a face shield over safety glasses, hearing protection and close fitting gloves. Keep loose clothing away.
- Grinding concrete and stone makes silica dust and sparks start fires. Use dust controls and treat it as hot work.
Questions to ask the crew
- Is the disc on your grinder the right type and in date?
- Why should the guard never come off?
- Where do the sparks from your grinder land?
- What PPE do you need on a grinder?
Reference: 29 CFR 1926.303 (Abrasive wheels and tools)
Sign-in sheet
Print this page or download the sign-in sheet. Or run it in the app and the crew signs on the phone.
| Name | Company | Signature |
|---|---|---|
Get it signed
Run this talk in the app. The crew signs on your phone and you get a dated attendance record as a PDF.