How suction cups work?

Handheld suction cups work by manually pushing onto a surface. The device works by pushing out negative air, causing the suction cup to adhere to the surface of the glass (or other material you want to create suction on). This creates a smooth and safe vacuum and the air pressure created is what allows the glass suction cups to carry such heavy loads.

It is important to know that the safe suction on the glass will only last so long - the vacuum will not last forever. After a while, some of the pressure will disappear and the glass may fall or slide off. This can be very dangerous, so please be aware of this.

Always make sure you have the right lifting equipment for the job - one that can cope with the particular weight you are carrying. Getting it wrong could affect your suction time and make it unsafe for you and those around you.

Is a glass lifting tool necessary?

A glass lifting tool will not only help you lift bulky panes of glass, but it will also help you manoeuvre them more safely. This makes glass lifting tools necessary when lifting glass, as it is recommended that you should do so if you can improve the safety of something - especially in the glass industry.

Glass lifting tips

Now that you have learned more about glass suction cups and how they work, it's time to learn some tips on how to lift and handle glass as safely as possible. Take note of the following helpful tips, things you can do and things to avoid that will help ensure you lift the glass as safely as possible.

Lifting the glass to your side

If necessary, use two suction cups for safer support and never lift the glass over your head.

Larger panes of glass

For larger glass, it is best to get help and have two people carry it together. More than one suction cup can also help with this problem.

Replacing old equipment

Directly replace any worn or weakened safety equipment. Don't perform a job unless you have the correct safety equipment for the job. This is important for your own safety and the safety of those around you.

Broken glass

If you notice any broken glass or shards of glass nearby, move away from it and if it is on the floor, do not walk over it. It is important to clean it up as safely as possible before you continue working on it.

Don't break glass

If there is glass that has been broken, do not try to break it into small pieces with your foot or hand. This could cause the glass to shatter and cause more damage as you could cut yourself or worse.

Falling glass

If glass is falling, either from a height or if you or someone else is falling, do not try to catch it. If it shatters, it could cause you serious injury. It is best to stand well away from any falling glass to ensure your safety.

Summing up

We hope you have learned some useful tips that will help you stay safe when handling glass in the future.