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What Is Abrasive Wheels Training

Home » What Is Abrasive Wheels Training
what is abrasive wheel training

The abrasive wheels training is a way of developing and maintaining competency for using various types of equipment such as petrol cut off saws (Stihl, Makita, Husqvarna etc), battery and electrical powered grinders, MITRE saws, circular saws and bench mounted grinders which use rotating grinding and cutting wheels for different applications during workplace activities, and this course will train you on the safe use, wheel mounting procedures, maintenance and storage requirements to be able to work safely.

Do you need training to use an abrasive wheel?

In line with the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER 98), everyone who uses an angle grinder, petrol-driven saw or bench grinder for work needs to be properly trained to do so. 

How long does an abrasive wheel course take?

Course durations vary depending on the format and type of training. Here’s a breakdown:

Course TypeOccupational RelevanceCourse DurationCITB Short Qualification GrantCourse Delivery MethodMaximum NumbersCertification Type
NPORS N017 Abrasive Wheels - Hand Held Cut Off SawOperative and Craft
Supervision
1 day£120Classroom6–10 (depending on Accreditation)NPORS
NPORS N301 – Abrasive WheelsOperative and Craft
Supervision
1 day£120Classroom6–10 (depending on Accreditation)NPORS
Abrasive Wheels With PracticalOperative and Craft
Supervision
Half dayNot Grant EligibleClassroom12 classroomWSS Certification
Handheld Disc Cutter Safety in Construction (Abrasive Wheels)Operative and Craft
Supervision
1 dayTier 1 - £60Classroom12 classroomCITB Standard
Abrasive Wheels Theory Training (Handheld Disc Cutter)Operative and Craft
Supervision
Half dayTier 1 - £60Classroom15 classroomCITB Standard
Abrasive Wheels Theory Training Refresher (Handheld Disc Cutter Refresher)Operative and Craft
Supervision
Half dayTier 1 Refresher - £30Classroom, Remote15 classroom / 12 remoteCITB Standard
Handheld Disc Cutter Safety in Construction Refresher (Abrasive Wheels Refresher)Operative and Craft
Supervision
Half dayTier 1 Refresher - £30Classroom15 classroom / 12 remoteCITB Standard

All courses are delivered by qualified professionals and designed for compliance with PUWER and industry safety regulations.

Which Abrasive Wheels Course Is Right for You? Our recommendations

Choosing the right abrasive wheels training depends on your team size, working environment, and whether you’re looking for initial training or a refresher. Here’s our expert recommendation to get the best value — and stay compliant.

Training OptionBest ForWhy Choose ItLocation
NPORS Practical & TheoryEmployers with up to 6 staffReal equipment, custom delivery, CITB-fundedOn-site for group
CITB Abrasive Wheels Theory Only with practical bolt onEmployers with up to 12 staffQuick, compliant, low-cost, grant-eligibleOn-site for group
Refresher Training - Abrasive wheels with practicalEmployers with up to 12 staff - expired or soon to expire certificatesKeep compliant, available in short formatOn-site for group
NPORS Practical & TheoryIndividuals, sole traders / self employedCost effective for individual bookingsNearest NPORS test centre

Best Option for Employers: Practical + Theory Combined (In-House or Group Booking) – up to 6 people NPORS

For employers booking multiple staff or wanting to ensure real-world safety standards, our combined practical + theory abrasive wheels training delivered on-site is the most effective and flexible solution. It maximises engagement and can often be funded through CITB grants or Employer Networks, bringing your cost down to as little as £88.50 per person.

Best Option for Employers: Practical + Theory Combined (In-House or Group Booking) – up to 12 people

For employers booking multiple staff or wanting to ensure real-world safety standards, our combined practical + theory abrasive wheels training delivered on-site is the most effective and flexible solution. It maximises engagement and can often be funded through CITB grants or Employer Networks

Best Option for Employers: Refresher – Practical + Theory Combined (In-House or Group Booking)

For employers with 12 or more staff needing refresher training, our combined practical and theory session delivered on-site is the most effective and cost-efficient option. This half-day format is tailored for experienced operatives who simply need to update their knowledge and demonstrate competency.

It maximises engagement while keeping downtime minimal, making it an ideal solution for high-volume refresher needs — and it’s extremely competitive in price

Best Option for Individuals: Open Course

For individuals needing to meet legal training requirements, our open access abrasive wheels course provides a quick and affordable solution. This is particularly suitable for self-employed trades or small teams

NPORS centre search for nearby provider 

How often do you need abrasive wheel training?

Your certification is valid for 3 years, once you are reaching your expiry date the abrasive wheel refresher course is then recommended to help stay updated on the latest regulations and maintain continual professional development. 

We offer a dedicated Abrasive Wheels Theory Training Refresher course to support your continued compliance and knowledge maintenance.

Can abrasive wheel training be done online?

No, this is a classroom-based course with demonstrations and practical exercises.

Some theory-based elements may be discussed in a blended format, but practical verification must be done in person.

Do you need a certificate to change a grinding wheel?

Yes, if you are working for an employer they will need proof of your training achievement to show you have successfully attended and passed the relevant training for the equipment you will be expected to use.

Are abrasive wheels covered by Puwer?

Abrasive Wheels are regulated by the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations act 1998 (PUWER). The regulations aim to keep people safe at work whilst using work equipment’s, including abrasive wheels. 

What are the five basic parameters of a grinding wheel?

The parameters are: abrasive material, grit size, bonding material, wheel structure, which refers to the relative spacing of grains, and wheel grade, which refers to the bond strength of the wheel in retaining abrasive grains, also the cutting disc rotational (spindle) speed limitations and size of the wheels appropriate to the griding tool or equipment.

Are abrasives hard?

Abrasive are sharp, hard material used to wear away or cut the surface of softer, less resistant materials. There are various types of cutting and grinding discs from granular sanding disc to multi-purpose diamond cutting discs.

Course Costing & Funding Options

OptionWho It's ForFunding / PaymentNet Cost To You
Fully Funded (Skills & Training Fund)CITB-registered employers with access to STF100% reimbursed under Skills & Training Fund (STF)£0 (if approved
70% Funded (Employer Network)Eligible employers booking individual places or small groups70% funded via Employer Network, remaining 30% payableFrom £88.50 + VAT per person
Group Booking – Surplus GrantLarger groups (typically 10+ delegates)CITB grant can exceed course cost – potential surplus retained by employer£0, plus possible surplus
Standard Rate (No Funding)Non-CITB registered or ineligible companiesPay standard commercial rate£945 + VAT (guide price)

This is In-house classroom delivery – We come to your site – or We can arrange a local venue close to your site if preferred

Please note: using an external venue may affect the day rate.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is abrasive wheels training a legal requirement?

Yes. The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) require anyone using abrasive wheels at work to be trained and competent.

How long does abrasive wheels training last?

Most courses last around 4–6 hours, including both theory and practical elements.

How often should abrasive wheels training be refreshed?

It’s recommended every 3 years, or sooner if there is a change in equipment, working conditions, or regulations.

Can I complete abrasive wheels training online?

Theory-only courses may be delivered online, but practical elements usually require in-person assessment.

Who needs abrasive wheels training?

Anyone using cut-off saws, angle grinders, bench grinders, or similar tools – including construction workers, landscapers, and maintenance teams.

Is the training CITB grant eligible?

Yes – short course grants and Skills & Training Fund options are available for eligible CITB-registered employers.

What certificate will I receive after abrasive wheels training?

You will receive a certificate of attendance or competence, depending on the course format and accrediting body.

Can abrasive wheels training be delivered on-site?

Yes – we offer in-house training at your premises for groups, subject to minimum numbers.

You might also be interested in:

CITB skills and Training Fund – Your training is effectively free once reimbursed by CITB

CITB Employer Networks – 70% funding for training

The Utimate Guide To Level 2 Award In Asbestos Awareness Course Guide – Maximise your CITB Grant – Train your team and generate surplus grant

The Utimate Guide To Level 2 Award In Utility Avoidance Course – Maximise your CITB Grant – Train your team and generate surplus grant