EU Skills Abrasive Wheels (AW01)

This course provides essential training for anyone required to select, mount, inspect or operate abrasive wheel equipment used for cutting and grinding applications.

The programme follows the EU Skills scheme, which requires both written and practical assessment to demonstrate knowledge and safe use of abrasive wheel equipment. This ensures competence not only in selecting and mounting abrasive wheels but also in safe equipment operation.

Abrasive wheels are widely used across construction, utilities, manufacturing and engineering environments, and correct training is essential due to the high-speed operation and potential risks associated with incorrect use.

What can I expect from this EU Skills Abrasive Wheels (AW01) course?

Participants develop theoretical knowledge and practical skills across key abrasive wheel safety and operation topics.

Legislation, Standards and Safe Working Principles

• Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER 1998)
• Legal requirements for abrasive wheel users
• Responsibilities for safe equipment operation
• Risk control measures and safe system planning

PUWER requires that anyone mounting or using abrasive wheels must be trained and competent to carry out the task safely.

Abrasive Wheel Hazards and Risk Control

• Hazards associated with cutting and grinding equipment
• Safe selection and use of PPE
• Dust, vibration and debris hazard awareness
• Preventing wheel failure and misuse

Abrasive wheels operate at high speed and can create serious hazards if incorrectly selected, mounted or used.

Abrasive Wheel Markings, Selection and Compatibility

• Understanding abrasive wheel marking systems
• Identifying wheel type, size and maximum operating speed
• Selecting the correct wheel for the task and equipment

Understanding markings ensures wheels are used within safe operating limits.

Storage, Handling and Inspection

• Safe storage and transportation of abrasive wheels
• Inspection and testing for damage or defects
• Equipment inspection prior to use

Inspection is critical to prevent wheel failure and ensure safe operation.

Components and Wheel Assembly

• Understanding flanges, blotters, bushes and nuts
• Correct wheel assembly and balancing
• Ensuring wheels are correctly mounted and fit for use

Correct assembly is essential to prevent wheel damage, vibration or failure during operation.

Practical Use of Abrasive Wheel Equipment

• Safe cutting and grinding techniques
• Safe mounting of handheld abrasive wheels
• Safe operation of equipment relevant to application type

The scheme includes practical training and assessment to confirm safe mounting and use of equipment.

Who is this EU Skills Abrasive Wheels (AW01) course suitable for and are there any entry requirements?

This course is designed for:

• Construction and infrastructure workers
• Utilities and engineering personnel
• Manufacturing and workshop operatives
• Anyone required to mount or use abrasive wheel equipment

Entry requirements:

There are typically no formal prerequisites, but participants should be capable of safely handling equipment and understanding safety instructions. 

Assessment is typically completed through:

Theory Assessment

• Written knowledge test covering legislation, hazards and safe use

Practical Assessment

• Observation of abrasive wheel mounting
• Safe operation of equipment
• Cutting or grinding activity relevant to application

EU Skills schemes require both written and practical assessment to demonstrate competence.

On successful completion, participants typically receive:

• EU Skills registration (digital card or equivalent record)
• Industry recognised proof of training
• Certification valid for 3 years

Certification confirms competence in safe selection, mounting and use of abrasive wheel equipment.