Grinder disc fatal injury

A contractor employee was modifying a road guardrail post using an angle grinder. While testing the grinder, a disc shattered and ejected fragments into his neck, resulting in a fatality.

What Went Wrong?

• Contractor fabricated the guardrail after adopting an incorrect installation method.
• Contractor employee was not trained in the proper use of the angle grinder.
• 9” angle grinder protection guard was removed in order to fit a 14” cutting wheel.
• Angle grinder was rated for a higher speed which exceeded the specification limits of the disc used.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) was not available on site.