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Eye protection at a bench grinder

Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) practice question 8 of 20 on Metallic Structures. ACS element AM.II.A.R2 · difficulty: recall. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONWhat eye protection is required when using a bench grinder that already has eye shields attached?

  1. AGoggles must still be worn
  2. BThe attached shields are enough
  3. CSafety glasses may be worn instead
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. Goggles must still be worn

  • A — correct The handbook directs that goggles always be worn when using a grinder, even if eye shields are attached to the machine.
  • B — incorrect Attached shields do not remove the requirement for goggles, which are called the only way to protect the eyes from fine pieces of steel.
  • C — incorrect Goggles are specified because they fit firmly against the face and nose; a substitute that does not seal that way is not what the handbook requires.

BACKGROUND

A bench grinder turns an abrasive wheel at high speed, and the precautions around it are strict. Goggles must always be worn when using a grinder, even if eye shields are attached to it, and they should fit firmly against the face and nose; goggles that do not fit properly should be exchanged for ones that do. The handbook calls this the only way to protect the eyes from the fine pieces of steel that the wheel throws off. Before using any grinder, the mechanic checks that the abrasive wheels are held firmly on the spindles by the flange nuts, since a wheel that comes loose can seriously injure the operator, and confirms the tool rest is secure, because a loose rest can let the work be grabbed by the wheel. The wheel is also inspected for cracks, as a cracked wheel is likely to fly apart at speed, and a grinder is never used without its wheel guards firmly in place.

STUDY TIP

For personal protective equipment questions, look for the answer that adds protection rather than the one that accepts a substitute.

KEY POINTS

  • Goggles are worn at a grinder even when eye shields are attached to the machine.
  • Check the flange nuts, the tool rest, and the wheel for cracks before starting.
  • Never run a grinder without its wheel guards firmly in place.

SOURCES

  • sources/ama-airframe/ch04.txt "Wet or Dry Grinder"
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SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on FAA-H-8083-31B Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook – Airframe, and 14 CFR part 43. Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.