Safe Use of Tools and Abrasives

Please observe all safety standards when using abrasives.

Due to the limited space on abrasive tool labels and their uneven surface, it is difficult to read and understand the safety warnings, restrictions and further information for the operator. Further, after an abrasive tool has been used for a while, parts of the label’s information get lost because of abrasion. Consequently, it is not practical to transport necessary information from the abrasive tool manufacturer to the operator via a label. Thus: Before using any abrasive tool, the operator must read, understand, and comply with all instructions supplied with the product’s original packaging as well as the Safety Data Sheet (SDS). Further information is available in Superior Abrasives’ product literature, online at www.superiorabrasives.com, from Superior Abrasives’ customer service, and from the power tool manufacturer.

This user information summarizes the information required for the safe use of quick change discs, cartridge rolls, belts, fiber discs, cross and square pads, points, hardware, mounted and unmounted wheels, disc wheels, nonwoven products, discs, sheets and rolls with or without PSA in nonwoven, cloth or paper material. In addition to this user information, user information relating to the grinder instructions given by ANSI B7.1 and ANSI B7.7 as well as the applicable provisions on health and safety at work, should always be observed.

Explanation of the labeling of abrasive tools

■ Always observe the instructions on the abrasive tool, the grinder and all accompanying user information.

■ Abrasives made by Superior Abrasives conform to the most exacting quality and safety requirements and are marked according to
the following safety standards:

• ANSI B7.1 or B7.7
• OSHA regulations

■ Use an abrasive tool that is suitable for the respective application. A tool that can not be clearly identified should never be used.

■ Observe any use restrictions, warnings and safety instructions on the abrasive tools and on the accompanying labels or packaging:

Not permitted for hand-held grinding

Not permitted for wet grinding

Not permitted for face grinding

Do not use if damaged

Wear eye protection

Wear ear protection

Wear protective gloves

Wear a respirator/mask

Only permitted with a backing pad

Refer to instruction manual/booklet

Storage of abrasive tools

■ Abrasive tools should be stored in such a way as to prevent any adverse effects caused by moisture, frost or large temperature variations and so as to avoid mechanical damage. Do not use resinoid-bonded abrasive tools or abrasive tools using coated abrasives that have been exposed to severe humidity, damp, or high temperatures.

Mounting principle for abrasive tools

■ Only use grinders that are intended for use with the relevant tool.

■ Never use a grinder that is not in good condition.

■ Use only abrasive tools whose clamping and outer diameter are suitable for the corresponding grinding machine and which comply with all specifications of the grinding machine.

■ Never use damaged abrasive tools. Abrasive tools must be visually inspected and checked for any possible damage before each use. Perform the ring test before mounting a bench grinding wheel. An undamaged wheel will give a clear tone.

■ Keep mounting components clean and in good mechanical condition. Replace them if they become damaged or worn. If the
manufacturer of the grinder provides tools for fixation of the abrasive tools (e.g. a key), then these are to be used. Tighten the
clamping mechanism finger tight.

■ If required, use blotters between the abrasive tool and clamping components.

■ Prevent the grinder from accidentally turning on, by disconnecting the power supply before mounting or changing the abrasive tool.

■ Never exceed the maximum operating speed of an abrasive tool. Make sure that the speed of the grinder (rev/min, 1/min, RPM or min-1) does not exceed the maximum permissible speed given on the abrasive tool, the accompanying label or packaging.

■ Do not make any unauthorized changes to abrasive tools.

■ Each time that a tool is mounted, perform a trial run at operating speed with the guard properly installed, for at least 1 minute.
During the trial run, hold the grinder in such a way that in the event of any failure of the abrasive tool you are not struck by any
fragments.

Use of abrasive tools

■ Ensure that the correct abrasive product is selected. Never use a product if it cannot be properly identified.

■ Always be aware of the potential dangers during use of abrasive tools.

■ Always use protective equipment and guards in compliance with the operating instructions for the grinder and make sure they are properly mounted and in good condition, before you switch on the grinder.

■ The workpiece must be fixed without tension by appropriate clamping devices or by its own weight.

■ The grinder must always be turned on before the abrasive tool comes into contact with the workpiece.

■ Always bring abrasive tools carefully into contact with the workpiece surface.

■ Grinders may only be put down once they have been turned off and have come to a complete stop.

Hazards due to tool breakage, abrasive particles, sparks, dust, fumes, noise, vibration and bodily contact with the abrasive product at operation speed

■ Warning! The grinding process may generate dust and fumes. Inhalation of grinding dust can lead to severe lung damage. Sufficient extraction or other appropriate measures must be provided and appropriate personal protective equipment must be worn at all times.

■ The use of appropriate personal protective equipment is required for all grinding operations to provide protection against mechanical impacts, abrasive particles, sparks, dust and fumes, noise and vibration. This includes eye protection, ear protection, respiratory protection and hand protection. Long-sleeved, flame-resistant clothing and appropriate safety footwear must be worn. Tie back long hair and do not wear loose clothing, ties or jewelry. These rules apply not only to the operator of the grinder but also to any other persons in the working environment.

■ Predominantly, dust and fumes in a grinding process originate from the workpiece material. Review the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) of the workpiece material.

■ Do not use abrasive tools in the vicinity of flammable materials. Flammable and explosive substances must be removed from the working environment before starting work. This includes, for example, dust deposits, cardboard, packaging material, textiles, wood and wood chips, as well as flammable liquids and gases.

■ In the event of excessive vibrations stop the grinder and investigate these. Take immediate action if, when using an abrasive tool, you begin to experience tingling, stinging or numbness in the hand or arms.

■ Prevent accidental start-up of the grinder during the process of mounting or changing an abrasive product. Isolate grinders from their power source where necessary.

■ Never remove guards from grinders where fitted and ensure they are in good condition and properly adjusted before starting the machine.

■ After switching off the grinder, ensure the product has come to rest before leaving the machine unattended.

Disposal of abrasive tools

■ Worn or defective abrasive tools must be disposed of according to all local resp. national regulations.

■ Note that abrasive tools may become contaminated by work on certain materials.

■ Abrasive tools for disposal should be destroyed in a clearly visible manner in order to prevent re-use.

■ Further information can be obtained from the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) provided by the supplier.