OSHA Instruction STD 1-12.8 October 30, 1978
OSHA PROGRAM DIRECTIVE #100-39
TO: ASSISTANT REGIONAL DIRECTORS/OSH
Subject: 29 CFR 1910.215(a)(4) Abrasive Wheel Machinery - Work Rests
1. Purpose
To provide clarification on the acceptable methods for the use of
work rests.
2. Background
a. There have been several variance requests and inquiries
received concerning the use of work rests on offhand grinding machines. A
problem exists when, due to the size, shape, weight and finishing areas of
workpieces, interferences with the work rest or contacts with the wheel below
the horizontal plane of the spindle are unavoidable.
b. The stated purpose of a work rest, properly adjusted to within
one-eighth inch of the wheel, is to prevent the workpiece from being jammed
thereby causing wheel breakage which could result in injury to the operator.
In those instances, where due to the size of the workpiece, jamming is
precluded, the enclosure (side guard) itself may provide
protection.
c. The need for stabilizing the workpieces when grinding tools
such as bits, chisels, drill bits, etc., is clear.
4. Action
In those instances where jamming or contact with a grinding wheel is
precluded by the size of the workpiece, a side guard offers sufficient
protection to the operator. Accordingly, in such situations, the failure to
have a work rest shall be cited as de minimis. It is not the intent of this
clarification to minimize the use of work rests when required to protect the
operator of a wheel grinder from injury.
Barry J. White Associate Assistant Secretary for Regional Programs
OSHA Instruction STD 1-12.8 October 30, 1978
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Distribution:
A-1 B-2 C-1 D-4 & 5 Training Institute
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