Handling glass is always precarious work. We’re not just talking about moving glass or installing it – sometimes, simply sticking things on patio doors and high windows carries risk. Thankfully, we’re here to make sure you stay safe!
Installing window safety stickers on glass doors and windows is bread-and-butter work for professionals, but sometimes, you may have to install them yourself.
Below, we discuss installing safety markers for glass doors, patio doors and windows, as well as the dangers associated with the practice.
How to Use Window Safety Stickers Properly
Window safety stickers and decal are used to make panes of glass more visible. This reduces the risk of someone accidentally colliding with the glass. They can be applied to:
- Patio doors
- Windows
- Shower glass
- Conservatories
- Side panels
- Smoking shelters, bus stops, and other outdoor shelters
Before applying stickers to glass, you must carry out a risk assessment for glass handling. The HSE recommends that this acts as the foundation of any handling of glass.
To carry out a glass risk assessment, you must map out:
- Control measures and protocols for if/when the glass breaks
- Guidelines on how to properly move or handle glass
- A list of people at risk
- A list of first aiders that can help with common glass injury
- Control measures which cover the handling, decontamination, cleaning, storage and disposal of glass
Once this is done, apply the decal or sticker carefully to the glass. Ensure it is pressed down firmly so the adhesive affixes properly, and double-check it can be easily seen by people passing by.
Handling Glass: The Risks
Glass injuries – from walking into the glass to smashing it – are common. For example, Apple’s $5 billion offices in California are covered with glass windows and doors. It’s a marvel to look at, but numerous employees have reported injuries because they keep accidentally walking into glass doors.
(Source: Business Insider)
In fact, at least three employees have needed medical treatment as a result. Similar glass injury stories can be seen across the globe, with studies highlighting that glass tables account for 2.5 million injuries a year.
While it’s difficult to pin down the number of glass injuries specifically in the UK, workplace injuries are common, and all efforts should be made to circumvent them.
Get High-Quality Window Labels Today
At Label Source, we stock a range of high-quality window safety decals for a variety of uses. Whether you need them for patio doors or windows, we can support working with glass safety.
