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1. Safety Guidelines
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
• Cut-resistant gloves for handling sharp edges.
• Safety boots with steel toes to protect feet from dropped loads.
• Protective eyewear to guard against glass shards. The Safety Engineer is vested with the
authority to enforce this Heavy Glass Unloading Safety Manual to ensure compliance
with established safety standards and regulations. This authority includes the power to
halt unsafe operations, mandate corrective actions, and oversee adherence to proper
procedures by all personnel involved in unloading activities. Their role is guided by
occupational safety frameworks such as OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178 (Powered Industrial
Trucks) and ISO 45001 (Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems), which
emphasize risk mitigation and the protection of workers and equipment. By signing this
manual, the company owner affirms their commitment to safety and authorizes the Safety
Engineer to act decisively in maintaining a secure working environment.
• High-visibility vests for team coordination.
• Hard hats, especially in areas with overhead risks.
Worksite Safety:
• Ensure the unloading area is clear of debris, wet spots, and obstacles.
• Designate the area as a restricted zone, with barriers or warning signs.
• Confirm the ground is stable and level for safe movement.
Team Coordination:
• Assign a team leader to oversee the unloading.
• Use clear hand signals or radios for communication.
• Conduct a pre-task safety briefing with the team.
2. Tools and Equipment
• Forklift: Ensure the forklift is inspected, functional, and rated for the weight of the glass.
• Forklift Attachments: Use specialized tools like fork extensions or glass clamps.
• Suction Cups or Vacuum Lifters: For manual handling assistance.
• A-Frame Racks: For safe and secure storage after unloading.
• Straps and Tie-Downs: To stabilize the load during transport and placement.
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3. Preparation Steps
Inspect the Load:
• Check for visible damage to glass or packaging.
• Verify the weight and size of the glass against equipment capacity.
• Note the orientation of the load and the best lifting points.
Prepare the Worksite:
• Confirm the unloading path is clear and wide enough for forklift maneuvering.
• Position A-frame racks or storage systems close to the unloading area to minimize
movement.
Forklift Setup:
• Adjust forks to a width that provides maximum stability.
• Attach specialized tools (e.g., clamps) securely.
• Perform a test lift with a similar load if possible.
4. Unloading Procedure
Positioning the Truck:
1. Park the truck on a flat, stable surface.
2. Engage the truck's parking brake and place wheel chocks under the wheels.
Lifting the Load:
1. Align the forklift with the load, ensuring forks are level.
2. Slowly insert the forks under the load or engage the clamps.
3. Lift the load slightly off the bed, ensuring it remains stable.
4. Tilt the forks back slightly to secure the load against the forklift mast.
Transporting the Load:
1. Drive the forklift at a slow, controlled speed.
2. Avoid sudden stops, sharp turns, or uneven terrain.
3. Use a spotter if visibility is obstructed.
Placing the Glass:
1. Lower the load slowly onto the A-frame or storage system.
2. Ensure the glass is centered and supported on the rack.
3. Secure the glass with straps to prevent tipping or sliding.
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5. Post-Unloading Checklist
1. Inspect the Glass: Check for any damage incurred during unloading.
2. Clean the Area: Remove debris, straps, and tools from the worksite.
3. Inspect Equipment: Verify the forklift and attachments are in proper condition.
4. Document the Process: Record any incidents, delays, or damage for reporting.
5. Team Debrief: Discuss the task and address any safety concerns.
6. Emergency Procedures
Glass Breakage:
1. Halt operations and clear the area of personnel.
2. Wear gloves and carefully collect broken pieces using a broom and dustpan.
3. Dispose of broken glass in a designated safety bin.
Injuries:
1. Administer first aid as necessary.
2. Contact emergency services for severe injuries.
3. File an incident report immediately.
References
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), 29 CFR 1910.178: Powered
Industrial Trucks – Covers safety requirements for operating forklifts and similar
equipment.
International Organization for Standardization (ISO), ISO 45001: Occupational Health and
Safety Management Systems – Provides a framework for managing workplace safety
risks.
American National Standards Institute (ANSI), ANSI Z97.1-2015: Safety Glazing Materials
Used in Buildings – Offers guidelines for handling and processing safety glass.
National Glass Association (NGA), Provides detailed guidelines for handling, storing, and
transporting glass safely, including the use of suction lifters, clamps, and racks.
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