RESOURCES
Health & Safety must always be the first concern of any woodturner before pressing that start switch. Here are a few guidelines:
Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Respiratory Protection: Dust masks or respirators are required to avoid breathing in particulates generated during sanding, especially when working on paints, fillers, or wood.
- Eye Protection: Safety glasses or goggles are mandatory to protect against airborne particles and flying debris.
- Skin Protection: Protective gloves and clothing should be worn to avoid skin contact with dust.
Handling and Operation Safety
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation or use local exhaust ventilation to keep dust levels below national exposure limits.
- Secure Workpiece: Ensure the material to be sanded is firmly fixed.
- Tool Operation (If using Sanding Tools):
- Start the tool after placing it on the work surface, and remove it before stopping.
- Do not exceed the maximum operating speed.
- Disconnect air/power supply when changing abrasive discs.
- Entanglement Hazard: Keep clothing, hair, and ties away from moving machine parts.
Storage
- Condition: Store in a cool, dry place.
- Temperature/Humidity: Avoid extreme temperatures and high humidity, which can affect the performance of the backing or adhesive.
Fire Hazards
- Heat & Sparks: While abrasives are not inherently highly flammable, they must be kept away from open flames, sparks, and high temperatures to avoid combustion of the backing material (paper or fabric).
- Dust Accumulation: Avoid allowing high concentrations of dust to build up, as this can pose an explosion risk.
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Remove person to fresh air and ensure comfortable breathing.
- Skin Contact: Rinse skin thoroughly with water and soap.
- Eye Contact: Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, holding eyelids open.
- Ingestion: Seek medical advice if necessary.
- For specific product information, it is recommended to consult the Voluntary Product Information (VPI) sheet provided by INDASA for the specific abrasive product.
For specific advice regarding the abrasives themselves, CLICK here.