Introduction
Sharp glass shards can be very dangerous if not handled properly. I recently had the unfortunate experience of dropping a glass and having it shatter all over my kitchen floor. While cleaning it up, I suffered a few cuts that could have been avoided if I had known how to properly pick up broken glass. After doing some research, I learned the right techniques and tools to use so that removing sharp glass shards can be done as safely as possible. I wanted to share what I learned, as these tips could help prevent unnecessary injuries for others in similar situations.
Wear Protective Gear
The first step is to put on the appropriate protective gear before attempting to clean up any broken glass. Thick, cut-resistant gloves are essential to protect your hands from getting sliced by the razor-sharp edges. Safety goggles should also be worn to prevent glass shards from flying into your eyes while you work. If any glass landed on your clothes or skin, carefully brush it off prior to cleaning.
For maximum hand protection, leather gloves or gloves with a tight knit fabric like Kevlar work better than standard household rubber gloves. Even while wearing heavy duty gloves, be very cautious and gentle when picking up each piece. It only takes a small exposed area of the hand or a tiny shard to cause a serious cut.
Prepare the Area
Before you start cleaning, take a few minutes to prepare the area around the broken glass. This will create a safer environment and make the process easier.
First, turn on all the lights so you can clearly see any scattered shards. Next, restrict access to the area by either closing doors or setting up barriers to keep children and pets safely away.
Turn off any ceiling fans in the room that could blow around glass dust particles. Make sure you have a cleared path to carry the glass to a waste bin without crossing over the debris field again.
Use Proper Tools
The right tools will make cleaning broken glass much safer and more efficient. Here are the best tools to use:
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Broom and dustpan: Gently sweep around the perimeter of the glass to clear any tiny shards and fragments. Use short and controlled sweeps.
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Stiff cardboard or cardboard box: Use a cardboard sheet or flattened box to scoop up the larger glass chunks. The stiffness allows you to scrape the glass shards directly into a waste bin.
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Tape: Roll masking or painter’s tape around your hand, sticky side out. Lightly pat the area to pick up any lingering tiny glass specks.
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Flashlight: Shine along the floor from different angles to detect any remaining glass slivers that could be easily missed.
Dispose of the Glass Safely
Once you’ve picked up all the visible broken glass, it’s important to properly dispose of it. Carefully place the glass shards in a bag or box to transport to the garbage. Avoid using plastic bags which could get punctured by sharp edges. Use cardboard, a bucket or glass container.
To prevent injury, do not try to smash, crush or compact the shards together. Take the glass waste directly outside to your bin and dispose of it carefully. If you have a recycling program, broken glass may be acceptable but check first.
Seal and clearly label any containers with broken glass before putting them in your waste bins or taking them to a disposal facility. This prevents waste handlers from getting injured later.
Inspect and Clean the Area
As a final safety check, thoroughly scan the area again under good lighting. Get down low or use a flashlight to look for any traces missed during the initial cleanup. Feel gently along the floor with a gloved hand to find any remaining slivers.
Once satisfied that no glass remains, vacuum the area again as glass dust and tiny shards could still be present. Do not use a standard upright vacuum which could shoot glass into the air. Use a canister vacuum with a HEPA filter and carefully vacuum the space.
Finally, thoroughly wash the floor using warm, soapy water and a sponge or mop. This removes any dust and debris stirred up in the cleanup process. Rinse and dry the floor completely before allowing people or pets back into the area. Proper inspection and washing helps provide peace of mind that the area is safe again.
Treat Any Minor Cuts Appropriately
If you do happen to nick or cut yourself a bit during the process, treat it right away to avoid infection. Thoroughly wash cuts under warm soapy water. Apply antibiotic ointment and cover with a sterile bandage.
Watch for signs of infection like increasing redness, swelling or pus. See a doctor promptly if the wound shows infection or you haven’t had a tetanus shot in the past 10 years. With fast treatment, minor glass cuts typically heal well.
When to Call for Help
For major glass breakages or injuries, seek emergency assistance. If a large window or appliance like an oven door shatters, call a professional for safe cleanup and disposal assistance.
Go to urgent care or the ER right away if you experience a deep cut that won’t stop bleeding, have glass deeply embedded that you cannot remove yourself, or suffer an eye injury which requires specialist care. Don’t delay getting medical help when needed.
Conclusion
Removing broken glass safely just takes a few precautions and the right techniques. Protect your hands and eyes, prepare the area properly, use recommended tools, and dispose of the glass very carefully. If injured, promptly clean and treat any cuts sustained. Follow these best practices to keep yourself and others safe when picking up shattered glass. With some care and awareness, you can successfully handle this hazardous situation and avoid unnecessary harm.
