Abrasive Wheels Safety Awareness Training

Nearly 50% of all accidents involving abrasive wheels are due to unsafe working practices or operator error. This makes proper training absolutely vital for anyone who uses abrasive wheels as part of their job.

Abrasive wheels are powerful and versatile, but when handled incorrectly, they can cause serious injuries including cuts, eye damage, and even fatalities. This Abrasive Wheels Awareness Course is designed to ensure workers understand how to operate equipment safely, manage risks, and follow key health and safety procedures to protect themselves and those around them.

Even if you’re experienced with grinders or cutting tools, staying updated on safety protocols can help prevent avoidable accidents and ensure compliance with UK workplace safety standards.

Who Should Take This Course?

This course is suitable for any employee who uses abrasive wheels in the workplace. It’s particularly relevant for:

Bench grinder users
Pedestal grinder users
Angle grinder operators
Construction workers, fabricators, welders, and engineers

While the course does not cover the use of specialist grinding machines, the core safety principles and risk management techniques apply across all common grinding equipment.

No prior certification is required. The course is written at an introductory level, though practical experience will enhance learning.

Course Objectives

By the end of this training, learners will:

Understand what abrasive wheels are and the types of equipment used
Recognise common risks and hazards associated with abrasive wheels
Learn how to manage and reduce these risks through proper technique and PPE
Gain insight into safe setup, operation, and maintenance procedures
Understand the importance of dust suppression and respiratory protection

Course Content Overview (Videos)

Video 1: Introduction to Abrasive Wheels

⏱ Duration: 4 minutes 20 seconds

What abrasive wheels are and where they’re used
Legal responsibilities and regulatory framework

Video 2: The Risks

⏱ Duration: 4 minutes 40 seconds

Overview of typical injuries and accidents
Hazard identification in real work environments

Video 3: Risk Management

⏱ Duration: 3 minutes 47 seconds

Pre-use checks and safe setup
Correct PPE, guarding and maintenance routines

Video 4: Safe Use of Angle Grinders

⏱ Duration: 4 minutes 40 seconds

Handling and positioning
Do’s and don’ts during operation
Kickback prevention and control

Video 5: Dust Suppression

⏱ Duration: 3 minutes 57 seconds

Health risks of airborne dust (e.g., silicosis)
Use of extraction systems and dampening methods
Respiratory protection guidance

Assessment and Certification

After completing the video modules, learners can take a brief assessment to confirm understanding. Upon passing, participants receive a Certificate of Completion, which can be used for internal records, toolbox talks, or compliance with health and safety policies.

Benefits of This Course

Helps reduce risk of injury or fatality from abrasive wheel use
Promotes safe working practices and legal compliance
Reinforces PPE awareness and inspection routines
Suitable for induction, refresher training, or contractor compliance
Takes under 25 minutes to complete