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

Distribution:

A-1 B-2 C-1 D-4 & 5 Training Institute