
13. Always use dust extraction or suppression systems which are suitable for the material being processed.
Safety precautions for repetitive motions hazards
1. When using a sander to perform work-related activities, the operator can experience discomfort in the hands, arms, shoulders, neck or other
parts of the body.
2. While using a sander, the operator should adopt a comfortable posture whilst maintaining secure footing and avoiding awkward or off-balance
postures. The operator should change posture during extended tasks; this can help avoid discomfort and fatigue.
3. If the operator experiences symptoms such as persistent or recurring discomfort, pain, throbbing, aching, tingling, numbness, burning
sensations or stiffness, these warning signs should not be ignored. The operator should tell the employer and consult a qualified health
professional.
Safety precautions for accessory hazards
1. Disconnect the sander from the energy supply before fitting or changing the inserted tool or accessory.
2. Avoid direct contact with the inserted tool during and after use, as it can be hot or sharp.
3. Use only sizes and types of accessories and consumables that are recommended by the manufacturer of sanders; do not use other types or
sizes of accessories or consumables.
4. Grinding wheels and cutting-off tools shall not be used.
5. Check that the maximum operating speed of the inserted tool (flap wheels, abrasive belts, fibre discs, backing pads, etc.), is higher than the
rated speed of the sander.
6. Self-fixing sander discs shall be placed concentrically on the supporting pad.
Safety precautions for workplace hazards
1. Slips, trips and falls are major causes of workplace injury. Be aware of slippery surfaces caused by use of the tool and also of trip hazards
caused by the air line or hydraulic hose.
2. The sander is not intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres and is not insulated against contact with electric power.
3. Ensure that there are no electrical cables, gas pipes, etc., which can cause a hazard if damaged by use of the tool.
Safety precautions for dust and fume hazards
1. Dust and fumes generated when using sanders can cause ill health (for example cancer, birth defects, asthma and/or dermatitis); risk
assessment and implementation of appropriate controls for these hazards are essential.
2. Risk assessment should include dust created by the use of the tool and the potential for disturbing existing dust.
3. Operate and maintain the sander as recommended in these instructions, to minimize dust or fume emissions.
4. Direct the exhaust so as to minimize disturbance of dust in a dust-filled environment.
5. Where dust or fumes are created, the priority shall be to control them at the point of emission.
6. All integral features or accessories for the collection, extraction or suppression of airborne dust or fumes should be correctly used and
maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
7. Select, maintain and replace the consumable/inserted tool as recommended in the instruction handbook, to prevent an unnecessary increase in
dust or fumes.
8. Use respiratory protection in accordance with employer's instructions and as required by occupational health and safety regulations.
Safety precautions for noise hazards
1. Exposure to high noise levels can cause permanent, disabling hearing loss and other problems, such as tinnitus (ringing, buzzing, whistling or
humming in the ears). Therefore, risk assessment and implementation of appropriate controls for these hazards are essential.
2. Appropriate controls to reduce the risk can include actions such as damping materials to prevent workpieces from “ringing”.
3. Use hearing protection in accordance with employer's instructions and as required by occupational health and safety regulations.
4. Operate and maintain the sander as recommended in the instruction handbook, to prevent an unnecessary increase in the noise level.
5. Select, maintain and replace the consumable/inserted tool as recommended in the instruction handbook, to prevent an unnecessary increase in
noise.
6. If the sander has a silencer, always ensure it is in place and in good working order when the tool is being operated.
Safety precautions for vibration hazards
1. Exposure to vibration can cause disabling damage to the nerves and blood supply of the hands and arms.
2. Wear warm clothing when working in cold conditions and keep your hands warm and dry.
3. If you experience numbness, tingling, pain or whitening of the skin in your fingers or hands, stop using the sander, tell your employer and
consult a physician.
4. Operate and maintain the sander as recommended in the instruction handbook, to prevent an unnecessary increase in vibration levels.
5. Hold the tool with a light but safe grip, taking account of the required hand reaction forces, because the risk from vibration is generally greater
when the grip force is higher.
Additional safety instructions for pneumatic power tools
1. Air under pressure can cause severe injury.
2. Always shut off air supply, drain hose of air pressure and disconnect tool from air supply when not in use, before changing accessories or when
making repairs.
3. Never direct air at yourself or anyone else.
4. Whipping hoses can cause severe injury. Always check for damaged or loose hoses and fittings.
5. Whenever universal twist couplings (claw couplings) are used, lock pins shall be installed and whipcheck safety cables shall be used to
safeguard against possible hose-to-tool and hose-and-hose connection failure.
6. Do not exceed the maximum air pressure stated on the tool.
7. Never carry an air tool by the hose.