Wire Wheel Hazards

• Wear protection when working with machinery. helmet image by Goran Bogicevic from Fotolia.com

  Maintenance shops are only some of the users of wire wheel grinders. This common piece of machinery allows you to remove and cut metal from flat and cylindrical surfaces. Though many different types are available, some grinders incorporate wire brushes. These machines can operate at speeds of approximately 10,000 surface feet per minute. Many workers using wire wheel grinders are unaware of their inherent hazards and do not take the appropriate safety precautions to prevent injuries.

Eye Injuries

• Injuries acquired when working with wire wheels can often happen to your eyes; wear safety glasses to protect your vision. Wire wheels can shed wire and, because of the high speed at which the machines run, can throw these wires off. Eye injuries can cause permanent damage such as blindness. Also, wear a face shield in addition to safety goggles to maximize protection.

Projectiles

• Before beginning work with a wire wheel, inspect it thoroughly for cracks, integrity and other conditions that may affect the tool's ability to work properly. These machines are also designed for operation at certain speeds: a maximum speed you should not exceed. The wheel can come apart in pieces, which increases the chance of a projectile flying toward you when you operate the machine. Due to these machines' high speed, the wire filaments and broken pieces can penetrate clothing; wear thick clothing, gloves and work boots.

Clothing

• In addition, do not wear loose clothing when working with wire wheels. Loose clothing or even long hair can become entangled in the machine. Do not wear articles of clothing such as scarves and ties, long-sleeved shirts unbuttoned at the wrists or even jewelry around these machines.

Hearing Loss and Respiratory Problems

• Workers using wire wheels can also inhale the dust and fumes generated by the machine. In the long run, these can lead to respiratory diseases and problems. The machine also makes constant noises that can cause permanent hearing damage in the long term; use protective equipment such as a dust mask and hearing protection.