This Grinding & Deburring SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) covers using angle grinders, bench grinders and powered or manual deburring tools on metal in a fabrication or workshop setting. It sets out choosing and inspecting wheels and discs, checking speed ratings and guards, securing the workpiece, controlling kickback and sparks, and isolating the tool before changing discs or adjusting rests. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Metal fabrication and engineering workshops
Welders and boilermakers
Steel and structural fabricators
Automotive and mechanical workshops
Maintenance fitters and trades
Use it to
Train and induct workers in exactly how you expect the task to be done
Keep a clear reference at the machine, in the vehicle or on site
Record competency with the built-in sign-off
Show clients, insurers and auditors your safe work methods are written down
What this SOP covers
Kickback from a jammed, pinched or wrongly angled wheel or disc
Abrasive wheels or discs shattering during use
Flying metal particles, sparks and swarf
Contact with the rotating wheel or tool causing cuts or amputation
Entanglement of clothing, hair, jewellery or gloves
Fire or burns from sparks
Noise-induced hearing loss
Metal dust and fume, including from coated or plated workpieces
Electric shock from damaged leads, plugs or tools
Strain from repetitive grinding or holding a workpiece
What's included
9 pre-operational checks, from choosing the right disc and wheel speed ratings to guards, tool rests, leads and extraction
A 10-step operating procedure covering clamping the workpiece, body position, kickback, disc angle and spark control
Isolation and energy control for unplugging tools, isolating compressed air and tagging out hardwired bench grinders
7 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for shattered wheels, spark fires, kickback and eye injuries from metal particles
PPE checklist and a list of related documents
Competency acknowledgement and worker sign-off
Space for your logo, SOP number, version and review dates
Why use this template
Saves hours compared with writing an SOP from a blank page
Written as clear, numbered steps that workers can follow on the job
Fully editable, so you can match it to your equipment, site and how your team works
The competency sign-off gives you a training record from day one
How it works
Buy online and download straight away. You'll also get an email with your link.
Add your logo, company name, SOP number and dates.
Check it suits your equipment and site, and edit anything you need to.
Train your workers and have them sign the competency acknowledgement.
Need more than one SOP?
This SOP is also included in the Ultimate Steel & Metal Fabrication SOP Bundle. At $197 for the whole bundle, it works out much cheaper than buying SOPs one at a time.
Common questions
Does it cover both angle grinders and bench grinders?
Yes. It covers angle grinders, bench grinders and powered or manual deburring tools, including tool rest and eye shield checks on bench grinders.
Can a cutting disc be used for grinding?
No. The SOP requires the correct wheel or disc for the task and says never to use the side face of a cutting disc for grinding.
Does it cover guillotines or press brakes?
No. Fixed metal fabrication plant is covered by its own equipment-specific SOPs.
Can I change it?
Yes. It's a Microsoft Word file, so you can add, remove or change any step, check or hazard, and add your own logo and details.
Does it suit my state?
Yes. It's written to the model WHS laws and suits all states and territories, including Victoria under the OHS Act and Regulations.
What if it doesn't suit my work?
You're covered by our 30-day money-back guarantee if it isn't fit for purpose.
