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Glazier (Glass Worker)

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What does a glazier do?

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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?

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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.
  • Handling large, awkward, heavy sheets of glass.
  • Working in awkward positions and standing for long periods of time.
  • Slips, trips and falls.
  • Injuries from falling objects, or being crushed by heavy sheets of glass.
  • Cuts and lacerations from sharp edges of glass or the tools used.
  • Eye injuries from flying particles when cutting and grinding glass.
  • Exposure to dust from cutting, grinding, drilling and polishing of glass.
  • Exposure to other materials and equipment such as wood or metal when creating framing.
  • Using hand tools and powered hand tools.
  • Exposures to solvents in adhesives, sealants, etching chemicals, and cleaning products.
  • Working outdoors in hot or cold weather.
  • Working alone.
  • Travel to reach job sites.

What are some preventative measures for a glazier?

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  • Follow roper procedures for working at heights, including a fall protection plan .
  • Work safely when 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, including sharp blades or edges.
  • Use correct personal protective equipment such as eye protection when cutting and grinding.
  • Use protective gloves and footwear when handling glass sheets.
  • Take adequate breaks to avoid fatigue.
  • Know first aid and keep a first-aid kit 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.
  • Drive safely, including in winter conditions. Do not drive distracted.

What are some good general work practices?

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  • Fact sheet last revised: 2021-12-17