keeping them running
Page 69
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by Tony Wilding A booklet published recently says that most accidents involving abrasive wheels could have been avoided if the risks had been appreciated and necessary safety precautions taken. Few people who have had anything to do with vehicle workshops would dispute this fact.
Most small-sized grinding machines used for tool sharpening and so on have provisions for a transparent safety shield. Usually, nobody ever bothers to keep the glass clean so it gets pushed out of the way. Many firms make goggles available for men who have to use such grinding machines but either because it is too much trouble or -it looks cissy", they never get used.
Never, that is until somebody gets a lump of grit or metal embedded in his eye and then everybody realizes how risky the job can be.
The booklet that I have just received is entitled "Safety in the Use of Abrasive Wheels, Health and Safety at Work, No. 4." HMSO, 27;p. Its purpose is to advise on precautions that need to be taken to prevent accidents. And it also points out that care in the design and manufacture of measures under the headings: lubricants, fuels, distances and weights.
Conversions for tyre pressures, fuel consumption, speed, temperature, altitude and, of course, fad to decimals are given. The left-hand edge acts as a 12in, rule and the right edge measures off centimetres.
There are two sleeves for pens or pencils and a clip to hold papers or maps.
A sheet of clear film protects papers from rain and is easily marked by a chinagraph pencil. A pocket in the back holds maps or a note pad.
Made by: James of Manchester Ltd, Reswick House, Beswick Row, Manchester.
Price: 62p.
abrasive wheels must be coupled with the adoption of sound safety measures by users.
The booklet deals with the risk of injury resulting from wheel breakage and the dangers of contact with a running wheel and it places particular emphasis on the airrect mounting of abrasive wheels; safe operation depends to a major extent on this.
Tables are included which give comprehensive information on such matters as operating speeds for different types of wheel, guard specifications and flange sizes. There are also illustrations showing various classes of wheel, suitable types of guards and flanges for use in different operations, The booklet also discusses wheel characteristics, their selection, storage and handling, together with detailed safeoperating procedures.
The publication goes beyond advising on mere compliance with legislation. It provides detailed information on good practice, by management and operators, which should ensure a high standard of safety wherever abrasive wheels are in use.
I rate the booklet a worthwhile buy.