Glazier (Glass Worker) – Fact Sheets

WHAT DOES A GLAZIER DO?

A glazier is a person who works with glass – installing, repairing or replacing glass in commercial, industrial or residential buildings or in automobiles.

The main duties of a glazier include:
Cutting, grinding, polishing and drilling glass.
Handling of sheets of glass in the warehouse, during transportation, and at the work site. This handling may involve using slings and power lift devices.
Applying adhesives, sealants and caulks.
Using, cleaning and maintaining various types of equipment.
Administrative tasks such as preparing estimates and invoices, supervising assistants, and ensuring compliance with building codes.

What are some health and safety issues for glaziers?

Glaziers can work in a variety of settings. Some of these settings, such as construction sites, may contain many hazards which glaziers must be aware of.

The main health and safety issues for glaziers include:

Work at heights, including work on ladders and scaffolds – fall injuries.
Handling large, awkward, heavy sheets of glass – back and arm injuries.
Working in awkward positions and standing for long periods of time – back and arm injuries.
Slips, trips and falls.
Cuts and lacerations from sharp edges of glass.
Eye injuries from flying particles when cutting and grinding glass.
Exposure to dust from cutting, grinding, drilling and polishing of glass.
Using hand tools and powered hand tools.
Exposures to solvents in adhesives, sealants and cleaning products.
Working outdoors in hot or cold weather.
Working alone.

What are some preventative measures for a glazier?

Proper procedures for working at heights on ladders and scaffolds.
Apply safe lifting techniques.
Ensure that tools and equipment are in good working order. Use ergonomic friendly tools.
Know how to use tools and equipment safely.
Use correct personal protective equipment such as eye protection when cutting and grinding.
Use protective gloves and footwear when handling glass sheets.
Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue.
Keep a first-aid kit/box within easy access.
Learn how to prevent heat stress and cold stress when working in extreme hot and cold environments.
Carry a mobile phone or other alternative means to contact with a designated person when working alone.

What are some good general work practices?

On construction sites, know the safety rules and procedures.
Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including footwear, head protection, eye protection and gloves.
Read the material safety data sheets for any hazardous products that you use and follow any recommended safety precautions.
Avoid stress and fatigue associated with working long workdays, shift work, and tight deadlines.
Follow good housekeeping procedures.