Abrasive Wheels

An Abrasive Wheel is a wheel, disk, cylinder or cone made of abrasive particles that have been bonded together with a substance like resin. These wheels are used in machines for tasks such as cutting, grinding, sanding and polishing.
Examples include wheels for angle grinders, bench grinders and cutting machines. They are found in industries such as construction and manufacturing. The training covers wheel inspection & mounting, safe storage, mandatory PPE and the handling of related hazards like noise, dust and vibration.

Category: Abrasive Wheels

Accrediting Body: Independent Training Standards Scheme & Register (ITSSAR)

Maximum Ratio: 6 : 1 : 1 (6 Trainees : 1 Instructor : 1 Machine)

Durations:

Novice* – Up to 6 Operators = 1 day (Timings may change due to numbers)
Experienced** – Up to 6 Operators = 1 day (Timings may change due to numbers)
Safety Refresher*** – Up to 6 Operators = ½ day

* For trainees with very little or no previous experience of using an abrasive wheel machine
** Existing operators with previous experience of using an abrasive wheel machine but have not received formal training
*** This course is available for those trainees with in-date documentary evidence of formal training

Course Breakdown

The following is a list of elements that make up a novice course. (N.B. The list for experienced operators, safety refreshers and conversion courses may be shorter).

Course Introduction, the need & reasons to train and relevant statutory requirements
Types of abrasive wheels and operator safety around wheels
British Standard marking system, correct selection, storage and handling of abrasive wheels
Correct PPE selection and use
Introduction to the equipment, control familiarisation and principles of operation
Pre use checks
Removal of a wheel, examination, testing, spindle speeds, correct fitting and re-setting rests & guards*
Final checks prior to run up of wheel, running up the wheel precautions and safety considerations
Refuelling procedures (petrol powered)*
Dressing the wheel with a tool dresser*
Balancing the wheel*
Operators’ safety code, relevant handout and safety film
Testing: Pre-use checks, practical skills and theory

* Will be covered where facilities allow/are relevant

All courses are ITSSAR accredited and are recognised throughout the industry.

On-Site Courses and Facilities Required

The course will be delivered on your premises. This will give your employees the advantage of being trained and tested on the abrasive wheel equipment they will use after training has been completed, safely and efficiently.

Training can be tailored/bespoke to your business requirements, but the following facilities will be required:

Access to your abrasive wheel machines
An area large enough for abrasive wheel operating and testing
Various items to cut/operate on appropriate to your business
For theory training – an area large enough for the instructor and the trainees (possibly 6) to work, with chairs, tables and a power supply
It is recommended that all personnel carrying out abrasive wheel duties wear personal protective equipment (PPE). This will be as recommended by your company’s policy/SSOW/RA.

Certification

After completing the course you will receive:

A certificate e-mailed to you

If you have applied for ITSSAR TOPS* (Trained Operators Passport Scheme), you will be registered onto the TOPS database, have your own TOPS number and receive a photo identification card.

* There is an additional charge of £20 per trainee. This covers the registration onto the TOPS database and card

After Care

After completing the training, feedback (verbally and written) will be given to both the trainee and their manager on the trainee’s performance including any recommendations.

When refresher training is due, (HSE recommends every 3 – 5 years, your company policy may differ), notification will be sent via email.