Repair and replacement of glazing is extremely common and often carried out away from the company premises, so instruction and training are key factors to safe working.
Particular hazards include:
- cuts from broken glass or cutting tools. Long knives are responsible for numerous serious accidents – use a safer alternative
- manual handling injuries (commercial vehicle and public service vehicle glazing can weigh up to 100 kilograms, and access to the windscreen area of the vehicle can be difficult)
- working at height
- contact with hazardous chemicals (for example sealants)
- environmental hazards (working at the roadside, adverse weather)
Some operational risks may be anticipated, whilst others may arise in individual circumstances and require a risk assessment to be carried out at the time. Mobile technicians will need to be trained in on-site risk assessment.
Installation of a particular screen
Installation of a particular screen without undue risk of a manual handling injury will depend on:
- the weight and shape of the glass
- the height from the floor and angle of the vehicle aperture, which determines the arm extension and posture required by the technician to position the glass
- the individual capabilities of the person
- other factors such as wind loading
In some circumstances a single-person lift will be unacceptable and a lifting device or a second person will be required.
Use an access platform for work at height, which has sufficient stability and is capable of supporting the load of 2 people and the screen.
PPE for technicians
Technicians will normally require the following PPE:
- safety footwear
- cut-resistant (for example Kevlar) gloves and sleeves
- suitable eye protection
- chemically resistant gloves (for example disposable nitrile)
- mobile technicians will also require a high-visibility vest (see BS EN 471:2003 High-visibility warning clothing for professional use)
- weatherproof clothing
- a first-aid kit and a means of communication (for example mobile phone)