Ok, I'll ask it a slightly different way, how do you assess something if you don't know how it works. Assuming some of you have old fashioned non CNC operated lathes.

Thanks Craig I've tried the user manual route and whilst it gives info on how to use the machine as you'd expect, there's nothing in it for polished finishes using emery paper. I've tried other manuals from other manufacturers with the same result, which is leaving me with the opinion that it is something which developed over time to create highly polished surfaces but essentially is a use of the machine the manufactures don't account for. As we've all probably done it, it is obviously a foreesable thing to do and you'd think would be addressed during their CE marking EHSR assessments and then put into their manuals. rock and roll.

Also, if you search the Prosecution section on the HSE, there is a case of a supervisor being charged as a result of an amputation from this very procedure. The fact that you are asking about the use of a steady would lead me to assume there is noone on site who is fully competent on this lathe. Tread carefully as this practice is very much forwned upon. Perhaps look at the original method of manufacture, grade of tip, speeds and feeds, even coolant will offer a better surface finsish that may well suffice. Good Luck

Try this first: http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/eis2.pdf