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CFS warns on angle grinders

Posted on January 22, 2009, 2:02pm

The Country Fire Service (CFS) has reminded South Australians of the dangers of using angle grinders on high fire danger days after two fires in three days were caused by the power tools.

Wednesday’s angle grinder fire at Clayton Bay burnt 60 hectares, 30 large hay bales, a tractor and fencing.

In the last 12 months the CFS has responded to 48 fires in South Australia that were attributed to angle grinders.

CFS regional prevention officer Phil McDonough said angle grinders caused an average of two to three fires locally each year.

“Basically they’re either cutting or grinding metal which creates sparks which could be thrown up to 10 metres,” Mr McDonough said.

“Legislation does allow people to use them on fire ban days as long as they have a four-metre wide firebreak, but the sparks can reach further than that.

“Unfortunately farmers and other industries need to use this equipment so banning it is not a feasible option.”

Mr McDonough said the situation just needed a commonsense approach.

“People just need to make sure there aren’t any flammable materials in the area where sparks are landing and make sure they have systems in place to reduce the risk of starting a fire,” he said.

Krueger Engineering leading hand Garry Boston said they were always careful with machinery and power tools on fire ban days and in most cases, waited for cooler temperatures.

“Basically if there’s a total fire ban day we need to get a permit from the council,” Mr Boston said.

“That means we have to have a cleared area and extinguishing agents on hand at all times.”

Along with angle grinders, permits are also required when using welders, mowers, slashers, chainsaws, brushcutters or edgers.

Failure to comply with the permit requirements can result in fines of up to $5000 for the first offence.

For more information on permit requirements see a local council fire prevention officer, phone the CFS Bushfire Information Hotline on 1300 362 361 or visit www.cfs.sa.gov.au.

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