Workplace Health and Safety Queensland is investigating a fatal incident that happened on Thursday 4 February 2016 in Maleny. A worker later died in hospital of a chest injury he sustained when a disc shattered while he was using a nine inch grinder. Common injuries associated with grinder include amputated fingers, severed tendons and deep cuts to the face, upper body or legs.
The most common causes of injury from angle grinders are lacerations from attachments that break and become projectiles, and lacerations from angle grinder kickbacks. You can take a number of precautions to eliminate or minimise the risk associated with the use of angle griders.

Before using an angle grinder

  • Consider if it is the right tool for the job.
  • Is there a safer alternative method of cutting for the task?
  • Ensure all electrical equipment has been tested and tagged, and is in good working order.
  • Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Conduct a risk assessment

  • Consider the work environment, including the safety of other workers in the immediate area and any flammable sources which may be ignited by sparks from the grinder.
  • Wear appropriate hearing protection, safety glasses or a face shield when cutting or grinding.
  • Wear flame resistant clothing for hot work.

For more information on Grinder Safety