Injuries
Learn how to protect against injuries in the workplace.
Fixed or hand-held abrasive equipment operate at high speeds and can be hazardous if they are used incorrectly or if the equipment is damaged. Individuals can be injured directly, by the equipment or in the immediate vicinity if debris is ejected at high speed from unguarded work areas, or if the tool is damaged or breaks in use.
Possible workplace injuries
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Cuts and burnsWhen abrasives are not used correctly or are damaged, they can lead to cuts and burns — which sometimes require medical attention or a visit to the hospital.
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Injuries from flying debrisIt is not unusual for pieces to come off materials while they are being worked on. However, if an area does not have a guard, or if the tool being used is damaged or breaks, this can increase the likelihood of injury to not only the individual using the abrasive, but also those in the vicinity of the work area.
Employers’ responsibility
It is an employers duty to protect health, safety and welfare of their employee, protecting them from anything that may cause harm in the workplace. Managing the risks involves a number of factors: ensuring each tool and consumable is safe and fit for purpose; ensure appropriate guarding is in place; make sure employees are fully trained in the use of the tools, machinery and personal protective equipment (PPE).
*Content source: Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety. www.ccohs.ca and independent testing by VITO
Managing and preventing injuries
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Use abrasives with improved safety standardsAbrasives made with the highest of safety standards give you the reassurance that they will work safely and reliably if installed, operated and maintained properly.**
View efficient abrasive products
**Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety. www.ccohs.ca and independent testing by VITO
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Install guards and inspect equipmentWherever possible, machinery should be fitted with guards and tools should be regularly inspected to ensure the equipment is safe to use.
Please note: tools should only be used with compatible machines and be installed according to the instructions supplied by the manufacturer.
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Use Personal protective equipment (PPE)Personal protective equipment, such as gloves, hard hats, eye protection, and other safety apparel can be used to help mitigate physical injuries.
Featured high-efficiency abrasives to reduce the risk of injury
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3M™ Scotch-Brite™ Radial Bristle Brushes and Discs
Utilizing durable yet flexible soft bristles which cannot penetrate skin or eyes, these bristle brushes and discs reduce the risk of injury while cleaning and finishing metal.
- Reduced risk of injury
- Utilizes durable, flexible, soft bristles that cannot penetrate the eyes or skin
- Lack of metal wires breaking off of the abrasive reduces the likelihood of injury
- Other hazard reductions
Hand-arm vibration
Noise
- Reduced risk of injury
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Learn more about abrasives safety
