How to Handle Glass Safely

Glass is easily damaged due to its unique qualities, and hence glass sector operators may confront considerable dangers in their daily working environment. Lacerations, cuts, and puncture wounds are the most common injuries. In severe circumstances, arteries can be severed, tendons can be sliced, and in the most serious cases, amputations or even death can occur. Thus, understanding good glass handling skills is critical to ensuring worker safety in the glass industry, where vast volumes of glass are handled daily, from glass manufacturing and processing facilities to window and door fabrication and installation companies. Checklists for "Practices for Safe Glass Handling" are provided below.

1. Wear personal protection equipment at all times. When transporting glass panels, anti-cutting protective gloves should always be worn. If your arm will inevitably come into contact with the glass edge, a protective arm bracer may be the best option. Safety caps are not always required, although they are highly advised when working with larger glass sheets.

2. Before moving the glass sheet, carefully inspect it up and down to ensure no damage could cause spontaneous shattering.

3. Before picking up the glass, make sure you have a clear path to your destination.

4. Move huge sheets of glass with at least two team members or use lifting aid devices because they are much heavy than one would think. Click here for glass lifting tools.

5. Employ safe lifting and movement practices. Carry the glass with two hands to your side. It should not be carried over your head or under your arms. Take a firm grip on the glass.

6. Maintain proper hand and body positioning to avoid being in the "line of fire" in the case of breakage.

7. Be aware of your environment and team members at all times. Allow no surface to strike or bump the glass, especially its edges or corners.

8. When placing the glass on the floor or other hard surfaces, place it gently on the long edge. Glass should not be placed directly on hard surfaces. Use padding or another form of cushioning agent instead.

9. Be alert of forklift truck traffic at all times, and never stand in front of any container or glass rack that is being moved or set down. Check the rack's security.

10. Do not try to halt falling glass or hold on to broken glass; instead, move out of the way to a safe area.