Before starting the grinder, turn the wheels by hand to verify that they are clear of obstructions and they turn freely. The tool rests and spark guards should not touch the wheel.

Keep tool rests and spark guards to within 1/16" of the grinding wheel.

Turn on the grinder and allow it to reach full running speed before starting to grind.

Adjust the eye shields as needed.

Keep a steady, moderate pressure on the workpiece and keep it moving at an even pace for smooth grinding. Pressing too hard overheats the motor and prematurely wears the grinding wheels. Note the original bevel angle on the item to be sharpened and try to maintain the same shape. The grinding wheel should rotate into the object being sharpened.

If grinding a narrow workpiece, slide it laterally across the width of the wheel. Using the full width of the wheel will help prevent a groove from forming at one place on the wheel.

Do not use the side of the grinding wheel; this puts dangerous stress on the wheel.

When the wheel becomes loaded or dull, use an approved grinding wheel dresser and dress the wheel face.

Do not force work against a cold wheel, but apply it gradually, giving the wheel an opportunity to warm, thus reducing the chance of breakage. This applies to starting in the mornings in cold rooms and to new wheels, which could be stored in a cold place.

Gloves should not be worn while operating bench grinders, and sanders. Serious injury may result.

Tools or other loose objects shall be kept off machines in operation.

Wheel guards shall be kept in place and in good condition while the machine is in operation.

Safe operating speeds are always marked on wheels by manufacturers. Operators shall not run wheels faster than recommended speeds.

Operators shall avoid standing directly in front of grinding wheels, especially when starting.

Wheels loaded or clogged with metal shall not be used until addressed.

Eye protective equipment with side shields shall be worn while grinders are being operated.

Grindings wheels shall be equipped with tool rests. Tool rests and tables must not be more than one-sixteenth inch from stone or belts/ discs.

It is unsafe to adjust a work-rest while the grinding wheel is in motion. The rest may slip and break the wheel.

Adjust the tilt of the eye shield to prevent sparks from hitting you in the face using the knobs on the shield.

The side of a wheel shall not be used for grinding unless it is a special-type wheel for that purpose.

Be especially careful when grinding narrow tools. They are apt to catch between the rest and the wheel.

Return tables to 90 degrees from stones or sanding belts/ discs when completed with tools. Always clean up metal dust. Leave it cleaner than you found it!

Direction of feed. Feed work into a blade or cutter against the direction of rotation of the blade or cutter only.

Do not grind aluminum or magnesium, as these may pose a fire hazard.