Angle grinder safety advice for tradies

The safe use of power tools is an important consideration in the daily undertakings of most tradespeople.

Whether on site or in your own home, the increased power tool use of the tradesperson over the average citizen means that a better appreciation for safety issues surrounding their implementation is necessary.

Saint-Gobain is a manufacturer of performance engineered abrasives - like sandpaper, cutting wheels and diamond blades - in Australia and New Zealand, so is well-placed to offer its advice for the safest use of tools that incorporate these materials.

After a fatality involving an angle grinder in NSW last week (May 16), Stephen Chaur, managing director of Saint-Gobain Pacific Region, is urging people to take precautions when using these devices.

Mr Chaur advises that personal protection like eyewear and footwear is a must and choosing a reputable brand that meets Australian Safety Standards is also essential.

Grinders should always be used with the proper guarding installed and the correct wheel chosen depending on the application of the tool.

Excessive force should never be used - instead the wheel should do the work for you.

Users should also ensure that the maximum speed marked on the wheel used for cutting is greater than the rated speed of the grinder.