Sander Safety

Due to the nature of the work carried out with a sander, the user is exposed to certain risks against which certain safety measures must be taken.

In this publication we will be detailing each and every one of the aspects that you must take into account when using a sander.

Main risks when using a sander

These are some of the dangers that are implicit when using a machine sander:

• Abrasive injuries caused by sandpaper.
• Sharp injuries either with the work machine, or with the material to be sanded.
• Entrapment with some parts of the machine.
• Injuries from projected particles during sanding.
• Injuries to the lungs from inhalation of the dust generated during sanding.
• Hearing injuries due to noise produced by the machine sander.
• Health damage caused by hand and arm vibrations, if the sander used for an extended period of time and improperly.
• Both direct and indirect electric shocks.

General safety measures for a sander

To avoid or minimize the risks associated with the use of a sander, certain general preventive measures should be taken as detailed below:

• You must read and comply with all the instructions and safety instructions, as well as the user manual of the appliance.
• Do not smoke or drink in the work area.
• You should not work with paints that contain lead.
• You must take all the standard precautions regarding electrical appliances such as checking the insulation regularly, checking the condition of the power cable, connecting the work instrument to a compatible electrical outlet, do not pull the cable, do not leave the appliance near sources of electricity. heat or humidity.
• Keep the sander well stored.
• You should not work with material that contains asbestos.

Personal Protective Equipment when sanding

To carry out a sanding job safely, the following personal protective equipment should be used:

• Cut resistant gloves: they are necessary to protect the hands from possible burns and cuts.
• Safety glasses: protect the eyes from sparks, dust and material particles that can be thrown during sanding. It is necessary that they have side protection, anti-fog treatment and allow the use of corrective lenses.
• Self-filtering mask: protects the user from sucking in dust particles detached from the sanded material.
• Earmuffs: necessary to protect the hearing system from loud noise produced by the sander.

Sander – Use of safety gloves

Safety measures before, during and after using a sander

It is important that you keep in mind the preventive actions that must be carried out, during a work day with a sander.

Before using the sander

• You must verify that the device is in good condition. Validate that its parts, insulation and protections are in adequate condition.
• Before connecting the sanderMake sure that the electrical network is correct according to what is indicated on the appliance’s specification plate.
• It confirms that the piece to work is held, stable and fixed.
• Validate that there is none tool or loose material, near or on the piece to be sanded.
• Verify that the sandpaper is properly mounted on the machine.
• Make sure that the sandpaper is suitable for the material to be worked on.

Sander – Technical Specification Plate

While using the sander

• During sanding you must hold the machine firmly with both hands.
• Watch your body posture during the work day.
• You should vacuum or remove the dust as it occurs.
• You should only use the sander in cases indicated as appropriate use.
• You should not force the device.
• You should never blow the dust that is generated during sanding, in this way you prevent it from entering your eyes or vacuuming it.
• You should not hold the piece to be sanded with your hand.
• You must not drop the sander before it has come to a complete stop.
• To check, adjust and clean the device, you must wait for it to stop completely, and if possible you must disconnect it from the electrical current. This applies to changing the abrasive paper, adjusting or removing parts, removing chips, etc.

Orbital sander – abrasive paper change

After using the sander

• You must clean the working instrument and store it in a place free from humidity and high temperatures.
• The appliance must be kept out of the reach of children and inexperienced people.

By following these indications and recommendations, you will be able to carry out your sanding work safely and effectively.