A deep laceration caused by the grinding disk of an angle grinder resulted the recent admission of a steel worker to the Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital ER. The laceration covered an area of 8cm and due to the associated vessel injury, required the application of pressure in the form of a pressure bandage and elevation of the limb in order to manage the torrential bleeding.
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The patient was rapidly assessed, a theatre prepared, then rushed into theatre to minimize the risk of losing his arm. After a successful emergency vascular repair, with no neuro-vascular compromise noted post surgery, the wound was dressed and the arm placed in a back slab to prevent the possibility of further injury. The patient was discharged a few days later with no impairment.
The grinder:
- The angle grinder uses an electric motor to drive an abrasive or cutting disc at high speeds.
- The discs are turned at speeds that range from 5,000 rpm to 12,000 rpm.
- The turning disc is used to grind or cut metal.
- The grinder size relates to the diameter of the disc used. This can range from 100 mm to 230 mm (4 inches to 9 inches). The size of grinder required is dictated by the type of job you are doing.
- The smaller the grinder, the higher the speed it turns.
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Personal safety
Whenever you use a power tool, you must use personal protective clothing and equipment that is appropriate for the task and which conforms to your local safety regulations and policies. Among other items, this may include:
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-Safe Guidance Note: Safe use of angle grinder. Work Safe Victoria 2011.
-PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) inforgraphic from Graphic Products.
Remember:
- Position the disc
Hold the face of the disc against the work, not the edge. - Work carefully
Be careful that the motor’s torque does not cause the grinder to slip out of your hand. Do not press too hard. Let the grinder do the work. - Select the correct disc
Use the edge of the wheel, not the face when using a cutting disk.
An Injury and Prevention Awareness Project brought to you by Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital Trauma & Emergency Centre.
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