Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

What is the purpose of using a hood guard on the abrasive wheel of a floor stand grinder?

1. To support the wheel

2. To enhance visibility

3. To contain the fragments of a broken abrasive wheel

4. To reduce noise

The correct answer is: To contain the fragments of a broken abrasive wheel

The purpose of using a hood guard on the abrasive wheel of a floor stand grinder is to contain the fragments of a broken abrasive wheel. This safety feature is crucial because, when an abrasive wheel is in operation, it can shatter if it becomes damaged or is improperly used. The hood guard acts as a protective barrier that prevents flying debris from potentially injuring the operator or nearby workers. By containing these fragments, the hood guard significantly enhances safety in the workplace. While supporting the wheel or enhancing visibility may seem useful, they are not the primary functions of the hood guard. Similarly, noise reduction is not a function of the hood guard; instead, it primarily focuses on safeguarding people from the hazards associated with broken wheels. Thus, the primary role of the hood guard is safety through containment of hazards, particularly in preventing the spread of dangerous fragments.