When dealing with broken glass, it’s important to proceed with caution to avoid any potential injuries. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean up broken glass properly:
1. Safety first: Before you begin, make sure to put on a pair of sturdy gloves to protect your hands. Additionally, wear closed-toe shoes to minimize the risk of stepping on any shards.
2. Remove any large pieces: Start by carefully picking up the larger pieces of broken glass and placing them in a designated container such as a cardboard box or a plastic bag. It’s crucial to handle these pieces with extreme care to avoid further breakage or injury.
3. Sweep carefully: Use a broom with stiff bristles to gently sweep up the smaller glass fragments. Be sure to sweep in one direction to keep the shards together. Avoid using a vacuum cleaner as it can potentially cause damage to the machine and disperse smaller pieces.
4. Dampen the area: After sweeping, dampen the area with a wet paper towel or a damp cloth to collect any tiny glass particles that may have been missed. This will help ensure a thorough cleanup.
5. Use a piece of bread or tape: To pick up any remaining stubborn shards, press a piece of bread onto the affected area. The glass fragments will stick to the bread, making cleanup easier. Alternatively, you can also use duct tape or masking tape to dab and lift any leftover shards.
6. Dispose of properly: Place all the broken glass pieces, along with the damp cloth or paper towel used for cleaning, into a puncture-resistant bag or a sturdy container. Seal it tightly and label it as broken glass before disposing of it in a trash bin. This prevents any potential injuries to sanitation workers.
7. Clean the area: Thoroughly wash the surface where the glass was broken, using warm soapy water. Rinse well to ensure no glass particles or soap residue remains.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use a regular broom to sweep up broken glass?
– It’s advisable to use a broom with stiff bristles to sweep up broken glass, as softer bristles may not effectively collect all the shards.
2. Is it safe to use my hands to pick up broken glass?
– No, it’s not safe to use your bare hands. Always wear sturdy gloves to protect yourself from potential injuries.
3. Can I throw broken glass in my regular trash bin?
– No, broken glass should be properly contained and labeled before being disposed of in a puncture-resistant bag or a sturdy container. This prevents injuries to others.
4. Should I dampen the area before sweeping?
– Dampening the area after sweeping can help collect any missed glass fragments. It is recommended for a thorough cleanup.
5. Can I use a vacuum cleaner to clean up broken glass?
– It’s best to avoid using a vacuum cleaner as it can damage the machine and can potentially disperse smaller glass pieces, making it harder to clean up.
6. Can I reuse the gloves used for cleaning broken glass?
– It’s not recommended to reuse gloves used for cleaning broken glass, as they may have microscopic glass particles embedded in them. It’s safer to dispose of the gloves properly.
7. How should I clean the broom after sweeping broken glass?
– After sweeping, carefully remove any glass fragments from the broom using a piece of tape or by rinsing it under running water. Allow it to dry thoroughly before using it again.
BOTTOM LINE:
Cleaning up broken glass requires caution and proper handling to prevent injuries. Use gloves and a broom with stiff bristles, dispose of the glass in a puncture-resistant bag, and clean the area thoroughly. Avoid using a vacuum cleaner and always prioritize safety.
