Learn how to work safely and confidently with abrasive wheels, including Stihl saws and handheld grinders, with our Smart Awards SA004 Safe Use of Abrasive Wheels course delivered at the Utilities Training North West training centre.
This Smart Awards–accredited course gives operatives the essential knowledge and hands-on skills to select, mount and use abrasive wheels safely, in line with current health and safety legislation and industry best practice.
Who is the SA004 Abrasive Wheels Course for?
This course is ideal for:
- Operatives and supervisors who use abrasive wheels as part of their daily role
- Telecoms, utilities and civils teams working on the highway or construction sites
- Contractors using Stihl saws, petrol cut-off saws, bench grinders or handheld angle grinders
- Anyone who needs a recognised abrasive wheels qualification to meet company or client requirements
Whether you’re new to abrasive wheels or need formal accreditation to back up your experience, SA004 is a practical, workplace-focused course.
Course Overview
Our SA004 Safe Use of Abrasive Wheels course at Utilities Training North West covers both theory and practical elements, so you leave with skills you can use immediately on site.
You’ll learn how to:
- Identify different types of abrasive wheels and their applications
- Understand the hazards and common causes of abrasive wheel accidents
- Comply with key legislation and guidance (e.g. PUWER, Health and Safety at Work Act)
- Select the correct wheel for the job, including speed, size and compatibility
- Carry out pre-use inspections on abrasive wheels and associated equipment
- Mount, dress, balance and replace wheels safely
- Set up and maintain a safe working area, including guarding and safe cutting positions
- Use personal protective equipment (PPE) correctly
- Work safely with Stihl saws and handheld grinders in real-world scenarios
Duration, Location & Format
- Duration: Half-day course (approx. 4 hours)
- Location: Utilities Training North West training centre (North West England)
- Format:
- Classroom-based theory session
- Practical demonstrations and hands-on use of abrasive wheel equipment
- Formal assessment (knowledge and practical)
This format minimises time off site while still delivering a robust, accredited qualification.
Entry Requirements
- Minimum age: 16+
- You should have a basic understanding of workplace health and safety.
- A reasonable level of English literacy is required to follow the course and complete the assessment.
No previous abrasive wheels qualification is required.
Assessment & Certification
To achieve the Smart Awards SA004 – Safe Use of Abrasive Wheels accreditation, you will complete:
- A theory assessment (e.g. multiple-choice/short-answer questions)
- A practical assessment demonstrating safe selection, inspection and use of abrasive wheels
On successful completion, you will receive:
- A Smart Awards certificate in SA004 Safe Use of Abrasive Wheels
- Certification is typically valid for 3 years, after which a refresher is recommended or required by many employers and clients.
Why Choose Utilities Training North West?
- Smart Awards–approved training provider for SA004 and other utility-focused courses
- Experienced instructors with real-world utilities, telecoms and civils backgrounds
- Practical training using equipment commonly found on site (e.g. Stihl saws, handheld angle grinders)
- Convenient North West training centre with on-site facilities
- Options for on-site delivery at your premises for group bookings (subject to numbers and facilities)
Our focus is on safe, efficient and compliant use of abrasive wheels in demanding environments.
What You’ll Be Able to Do After the Course
After completing SA004, you should be able to:
- Select the correct abrasive wheel for the task and tool
- Inspect and mount abrasive wheels safely and correctly
- Recognise defects and remove unsafe equipment from service
- Set up a safe work area and apply best-practice cutting/grinding techniques
- Comply with company procedures and legal requirements around abrasive wheels
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Smart Awards SA004?
SA004 is a Smart Awards–accredited qualification that focuses on the safe selection, mounting and use of abrasive wheels. It is designed for workers who use abrasive wheels as part of their job, particularly in telecoms, utilities and construction.
2. How long does the SA004 course take?
At Utilities Training North West, SA004 is delivered as a half-day course, making it easy to fit into a working day while still meeting training and compliance needs.
3. How long is the SA004 certificate valid for?
Most providers issue Smart Awards SA004 certificates with a 3-year validity period. After this, a refresher or re-qualification is recommended to keep your knowledge up to date and demonstrate ongoing competence.
4. Is there a practical element to the training?
Yes. As well as a classroom-based theory session, you will take part in practical exercises using abrasive wheel equipment. You’ll have the chance to handle tools such as petrol cut-off saws and handheld grinders under supervision, and you’ll be observed for the practical assessment.
5. Do I need previous experience with abrasive wheels?
No formal previous experience is required. The course is suitable for:
- New operatives who are about to start using abrasive wheels
- Experienced staff who have never had formal training or need an up-to-date, recognised qualification
6. Does this course help me comply with legal requirements?
Yes. SA004 supports compliance with:
- The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER)
- The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act
- Relevant HSE guidance on the safe use of abrasive wheels
By training your workforce, you demonstrate that you have taken reasonable steps to ensure safe use of equipment.
7. Will I receive a Smart Awards card?
Most Smart Awards accreditations are accompanied by a certificate, and many providers also issue a Smart Awards ID card or similar proof of competence. Exact format can vary over time; please check with Utilities Training North West when booking for current details.
8. What do I need to bring on the day?
We recommend that delegates bring:
- Photo ID
- Suitable clothing for practical activities
- Safety boots and other PPE if requested in your joining instructions
All training materials and tools required for the course will be provided.
9. Can the SA004 Abrasive Wheels course be delivered at our site?
Yes, on-site delivery for groups is usually available, provided you have a suitable training space and access to the required equipment. On-site training can be a cost-effective option for companies with several delegates.
10. What happens if I don’t pass the assessment first time?
If you don’t meet the required standard in either the theory or practical assessment, our trainers will give feedback and discuss options for re-assessment or additional training, depending on your company’s requirements and Smart Awards’ rules.
11. How much does the course cost?
SA004 open course prices for Smart Awards abrasive wheels training typically start from around £95–£125 per person, depending on provider and location.
Please contact Utilities Training North West directly for the latest pricing for individual and group bookings at our training centre.
Ready to Book?
Give your team the knowledge and confidence they need to work safely with cutting and grinding equipment.
To check dates, prices and availability:
- Call our training team
- Email us with your preferred dates and number of delegates
- Or complete our online enquiry form and we’ll get back to you with options
Smart Awards SA004 – Safe Use of Abrasive Wheels at Utilities Training North West:
Practical, compliant, and tailored to real-world utility and construction environments.