You don’t need us to tell you that glass is fragile and breaks easily, yet glass-related accidents and injuries in the workplace remain common – usually because of incorrect handling or storage. Here are seven practices to avoid when handing glass, and what you should do instead.
1. Don’t carry the glass with one hand
If you carry a glass sheet with one hand, you are not in complete control of it and there is a danger of dropping the glass. Instead, use two hands. Large sheets may need at least two people to carry them safely.
2. Don’t carry glass above your head or under the arm
Carrying glass above your head or under the arm is not stable and there is a risk of letting it go. If lifting glass to a high location, make sure that there are people at the higher location you can pass it to. Always use hand and body positions that will keep you away from danger if the glass breaks.
3. Don’t use worn out personal protective equipment (PPE)
Protective gloves, hard hats and steel-toed shoes help prevent injury from broken glass, but only if they are in good condition. Always replace PPE as soon as you see signs of wear.
Make sure that good-quality PPE is worn at all times when handling glass. Never handle broken glass with bare hands – always use protective gloves to prevent injury.
4. Don’t try to catch falling glass
If you see a large glass sheet falling down, don’t be tempted to try and catch it, as it could shatter and cause injury. Jump or run out of the way. It’s better to allow the glass to break than risk injury.
5. Don’t move glass around congested areas
Glass sheets can be safely moved around the workplace using A-frame trolleys. It’s not a good idea to use the trolleys in congested areas where there is a danger of hitting other workers or vehicles.
If possible, have separate designated areas for workers on foot with trolleys, and vehicles.
6. Don’t forget to train staff in glass safety
Workers who work with glass need good training in all aspects of how to handle and store this material. Poorly trained staff are more likely to injure themselves.
7. Don’t buy poor-quality equipment
It’s a mistake to buy badly made equipment that does not store or move glass safely. Instead, rely on Steely Products for specialised glass equipment, including mobile and static A-frames, window fabrication tables and sheet racks. We care about the safety of end users, which is why we make sure all our window-handing equipment is designed well, built to last and safe to use. Our equipment has been developed in consultation with glass companies, meaning safety and practicality is at its apex.
If you need advice on purchasing and using glass storage and handling equipment, talk to us at Steely Products. Use the handy contact form below or call us on 0161 702 7002.
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