What hazards are associated with grinding and how can PPE and practices reduce risk?

• A. Sparks, abrasive particles, eye/skin injury, dust; wear safety glasses, face shield, gloves, respiratory protection if needed
• B. Only hearing protection is needed
• C. Grinding is safe with no PPE
• D. Coffee break times

Answer: (A)

Grinding creates several hazards at once: sparks and hot particles that can burn skin or set flammables alight, abrasive particles and sharp fragments that can injure the eyes, and fine metal dust that can be inhaled and irritate the lungs. The best way to reduce these risks is to pair proper PPE with safe work practices. Safety glasses or a face shield protect the eyes from flying sparks and chips. Gloves shield the hands from cuts and heat, and protective clothing helps prevent burns on the skin. If metal dust or fumes are present, a respirator or appropriate dust mask reduces inhalation hazards. In practice, this is complemented by using the machine guard, a secure work rest, maintaining the wheel, keeping the work area clean, and avoiding ignition sources nearby. Other options that mention only one aspect—like only hearing protection—or suggest no PPE at all miss the range of hazards grinding can produce and don’t provide the necessary protection.