What safety measure is important when grinding composites?

Wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial when grinding composites for several reasons. Composite materials often contain hazardous substances such as resins, glass fibers, or carbon fibers, which can produce fine dust and airborne particulates during grinding. Such particles can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system, leading to health issues if proper precautions are not taken.

Using PPE like respirators, safety goggles, gloves, and protective clothing helps safeguard against these dangers. Respirators filter out harmful dust and fumes, while goggles protect the eyes from flying debris and irritants. Proper gloves can shield the skin from contact with the composite materials, which can cause skin irritation.

The other options do not prioritize safety in the same way. Wearing loose clothing can become a hazard by getting caught in rotary tools. High-speed tools can be more efficient but pose greater risks of injury and increased dust production without appropriate safety measures. Maintaining a clean work area is important for safety as it helps prevent slips or accidents, but it does not directly protect the worker from exposure during the grinding process. Thus, the emphasis on using appropriate PPE stands out as the most critical safety measure.