Near miss: grinder disc rotation set up in the wrong direction
What happened
In preparation for a forthcoming dive a GR29 underwater grinder was requested to be set up by the topside technician to be used for left-handed cutting to assist in gaining access to the cut.
The diver, on receiving the left handed grinder, carried out pre-operational equipment checks, where it was identified that the disc rotation was found to be in the wrong direction. The operations were stopped.
What went wrong
On investigation, it was identified that the GR29 grinder set up to be operated left-handed, was rotating in the opposite direction, leading to a risk in the cutting disc lock nut coming off. It was identified that the reversing spool had been re-orientated after discussions with onshore personnel.
The modified GR29 grinder was recovered to the surface and quarantined.
Operations continued with the confirmation that the original un-modified GR29 grinder was operational and the standard process of changing the handle and re-orientating the guard was continued.
Actions
The company standard/recommended process for a change in orientation of the GR29 grinder is for the GR29 grinder handle to be re-positioned 180 degrees right/left and the GR29 grinder guard repositioned and the direction of rotation to remain unchanged.
Members may wish to refer to:
- Are YOU prepared to work safely videos:
Safety Event
Published: 31 May 2022
Download: 
IMCA SF 13/22
IMCA Safety Flashes
Submit a Report
IMCA Safety Flashes summarise key safety matters and incidents, allowing lessons to be more easily learnt for the benefit of all. The effectiveness of the IMCA Safety Flash system depends on Members sharing information and so avoiding repeat incidents. Please consider adding [email protected] to your internal distribution list for safety alerts or manually submitting information on incidents you consider may be relevant. All information is anonymised or sanitised, as appropriate.
IMCA’s store terms and conditions (https://www.imca-int.com/legal-notices/terms/) apply to all downloads from IMCA’s website, including this document.
IMCA makes every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data contained in the documents it publishes, but IMCA shall not be liable for any guidance and/or recommendation and/or statement herein contained. The information contained in this document does not fulfil or replace any individual’s or Member's legal, regulatory or other duties or obligations in respect of their operations. Individuals and Members remain solely responsible for the safe, lawful and proper conduct of their operations.