Basic Safety when working with Diamond Blades
Always wear eye and hearing protection, and suitable clothing!
Wear respiratory mask for dry cutting! Consider using a PAPR (powered air purifying respirator).
For more info on silica, see Safe Work Australia's info here.
Careless or improper use of a diamond blade could cause personal injury!
- Do not use any blades or machines if damage is suspected.
- Beware of sun damage to the operator
- Have a fire extinguisher and first aid kit nearby
- Install the blade with the arrow pointing in the rotation direction of the tool.
- Use a blade that is suitable for the machine and the material to be cut.
- Check for suitability before cutting dry (not recommended).
- Check diamond blade for damage before installing.
- Check machine condition before performing any cutting operations.
- Check for a tight fit to the shaft of the machine.
- If using a hole adaptor, always ensure your blade flanges will clamp the adaptor in place - otherwise the adaptors may come out when used with dished flanges
- Check condition of blade regularly.
- Check all electrical cords and plugs (if applicable) and protect them from water.
- Never cut without the safety guards in place.
- Be aware of fume build up even in open buildings
- Do not apply side pressure or use it as a side grinder.
- When workers cut, crush, drill, polish, saw or grind products that contain silica, particles are created, which are one-hundredth of the size of a grain of sand. These can get stuck deep in the lungs. Ensure precautions to limit exposure to dust are in place.
Use a half face respirator or a PAPR (Powered air purifying respirator). See the WA government's info on silica dust here. - If you are cutting wet, the slurry created can dry out and create a hazard for other users - dispose of slurry as per your local regulations.
This NSW Government video explains in 3 minutes the dangers of working with silica dust.
It also shows how to manage the risks involved when working with silica dust.
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