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Occupational Health and Safety Act, 1993 (Act No. 85 of 1993)

Guidance Notes

Driven Machinery Regulations, 2015

9. Grinding machines

 

(1) The user of a power-driven grinding machine shall cause such machine to be marked in a conspicuous place with the manufacturer's rated speed or speeds of the spindle in revolutions per minute.

 

(2) No user may require or permit a grinding wheel of a power-driven grinding machine to be operated at a speed exceeding that stipulated by the manufacturer of such wheel: provided that a grinding wheel larger than 100 mm in diameter shall only be used if the recommended operating speeds therefor are distinctly marked on such machine.

 

(3) The user shall cause every grinding wheel of a power-driven grinding machine to be mounted concentrically on the spindle by means of robust metal flanges with annular peripheral bearing surfaces of adequate breadth, which shall bear upon the wheel, and a layer of suitable compressible material to be fitted between the flanges and the wheel: provided that grinding wheels for specialized application that cannot be fixed by flanges shall be so secured that displacement or rupture of the wheel in motion is eliminated as far as possible.

 

(4) Having regard to the nature of the work that is performed, the user shall cause every power-driven grinding machine to be provided with a substantial guard, which shall enclose the grinding wheel as far as practicable and shall be of sufficient strength to withstand the force of impact of a rupturing wheel.

 

(5) Having regard to the nature of the work that is performed, the user shall cause a power-driven grinding machine where the work piece is applied to the wheel by hand, to be provided with a substantial adjustable work rest, which shall be securely fixed in position and adjusted to within 3 mm from the grinding face of the wheel.

 

(6) The user shall cause every power-driven grinding machine to be provided with a strong transparent shield, which shall be kept adjusted so as to protect the operator's eyes: provided that such shield may be omitted if every operator of the machine is personally issued with suitable eye protection and is obliged to wear it.

 

(7) The user shall cause a notice to be posted in a conspicuous place at every power-driven grinding machine prohibiting persons from carrying out, inspecting or observing grinding work without using suitable eye protection.

 

(8) The user shall ensure that the operators of machinery used for the purpose of grinding, cutting, fettling, polishing or similar applications are specifically trained for that particular machinery.

 

Notes:

(a) This regulation does not apply to portable electrical grinders.
(b) In house training for operators of grinding machines is acceptable provided that there is proof thereof.