GB
recommended by the manufacturer. Personal protective safety glasses shall be used; suitable gloves and protective clothing are
recommended. Inspect the backing pad before each use. Do not use if cracked or broken or if it has been dropped. Avoid direct
contact with the moving sanding pad in order to prevent pinching or cutting of hands or other body parts. Wear suitable gloves to
protect hands. Never run the tool unless abrasive is applied to the workpiece. There is a risk of electrostatic discharge if used on
plastic and other non-conductive materials. Potentially explosive atmospheres can be caused by dust and fumes resulting from
sanding or grinding. Always use dust extraction or suppression systems which are suitable for the material being processed.
Repetitive motions hazards
When using a sander or polisher to perform work-related activities, the operator can experience discomfort in the hands, arms,
shoulders, neck or other parts of the body. While using a sander or polisher, 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. If the operator experiences symptoms such as persistent or recurring discom-
fort, 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.
Accessory hazards
Disconnect the sander or polisher from the energy supply before fitting or changing the inserted tool or
accessory. Avoid direct contact with the inserted tool during and after use, as it can be hot or sharp. Use only sizes and types of
accessories and consumables that are recommended by the manufacturer of sanders or polishers; do not use other types or sizes
of accessories or consumables. Grinding wheels and cutting-off tools shall not be used. 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 or
polisher. Self-fixing sander discs shall be placed concentrically on the supporting pad.
Workplace hazards
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. The sander or polisher is not intended for use in potentially explosive atmos-
pheres and is not insulated against contact with electric power. Ensure that there are no electrical cables, gas pipes, etc., which
can cause a hazard if damaged by use of the tool.
Dust and fume hazards
Dust and fumes generated when using sanders and polishers can cause ill health (for example cancer,
birth defects, asthma and/or dermatitis); risk assessment and implementation of appropriate controls for these hazards are es-
sential. Risk assessment should include dust created by the use of the tool and the potential for disturbing existing dust. Oper-
ate and maintain the sander or polisher as recommended in these instructions, to minimize dust or fume emissions. Direct the
exhaust so as to minimize disturbance of dust in a dust-filled environment. Where dust or fumes are created, the priority shall be
to control them at the point of emission. 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. Select, maintain and
replace the consumable/inserted tool as recommended in the instruction handbook, to prevent an unnecessary increase in dust
or fumes. Use respiratory protection in accordance with employer's instructions and as required by occupational health and safety
regulations.
Noise hazards
Exposure to high noise levels can cause permanent, disabling hearing loss and other problems, such as tinnitus (ringing, buzz-
ing, whistling or humming in the ears). Therefore, risk assessment and implementation of appropriate controls for these hazards
are essential. Appropriate controls to reduce the risk can include actions such as damping materials to prevent workpieces from
"ringing". Use hearing protection in accordance with employer's instructions and as required by occupational health and safety
regulations. Operate and maintain the sander or polisher as recommended in the instruction handbook, to prevent an unneces-
sary increase in the noise level. Select, maintain and replace the consumable/inserted tool as recommended in the instruction
handbook, to prevent an unnecessary increase in noise. If the sander or polisher has a silencer, always ensure it is in place and
in good working order when the tool is being operated.
Vibration hazards
Exposure to vibration can cause disabling damage to the nerves and blood supply of the hands and arms. Wear warm clothing
when working in cold conditions and keep your hands warm and dry. If you experience numbness, tingling, pain or whitening of the
skin in your fingers or hands, stop using the sander or polisher, tell your employer and consult a physician. Operate and maintain
the sander or polisher as recommended in the instruction handbook, to prevent an unnecessary increase in vibration levels. 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
Air under pressure can cause severe injury:
O R I G I N A L
I N S T R U C T I O N S
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