PPE

PPE stands for Personal Protective Equipment and protects the user from dust, sparks, noise and chips during grinding. PPE consists of

• Safety goggles or face shield: Protection against sparks, splinters and dust
• Respirator mask: Prevents grinding dust from being inhaled
• Hearing protection: Protection from continuous noise from the machinery
• Protective gloves: Protection from sharp edges and hot workpieces
• Suitable work clothing incl. safety shoes: Tight fit without any loose parts

Depending on the application, grinding can pose the following risks:

• Abrasive dust that can be inhaled
• Sparks and hot chips that can hurt the eyes and skin
• Noise that can cause hearing damage
• Rotating tools that can cause serious injury if touched

The right PPE reliably protects the user from these hazards, making it absolutely indispensable - for manual and machine grinding alike.

Typical problems without PPE, or with the wrong PPE:

• Eye irritation or injury caused by sparks and particles
• Harm to the airways from inhaling grinding dust
• Hearing damage due to continuous loud noise
• Cutting or crushing injuries to hands

These problems often develop gradually and are not taken seriously.

What are the main things to keep in mind when it comes to workplace safety and PPE?

• Wear personal protective equipment (PPE), check it on a regular basis and replace when necessary
• Check machines regularly
• Reduce grinding dust by using extraction
• Only use approved abrasives and machines (e.g. oSa-compliant and TÜV-tested)
• Observe the instructions of the oSa (Organization for the Safety of Abrasives) and manufacturer

On our Safety First page, we have compiled further information on the subject of work safety when grinding: https://www.vsmabrasives.com/en/applications/safety-first