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COSHH assessment
(Control Of Substances Hazardous to Health)

There are no substances within the installed products which can be regarded as hazardous. When maintaining the products, use of silicone spray lubricants and glass cleaners in normal ventilated areas will not pose a hazard provided manufacturers instructions are followed.

Risk assessments

In accordance with BS 6262, glass which extends below 800mm from finished floor level must be specified as safety glass. Each pane will have a permanent visible mark showing:

• the applicable British Standard BS 6206
• a material code. L for Laminate, T for Toughened, P for Plastic, W for Wired and F for Safety Film Backed
• a classification relating to impact test behaviour- A, B or C ( A being the highest)
• an identifiable name or mark showing the manufacturer or processor of the material.

Raised access floors fitted at a later date will require the glass to be re-assessed for possible replacement or application of safety film.

Window cleaners must make the same risk assessments when cleaning secondary glazing as for primary windows. In particular, ensure that the outer window is firmly closed to avoid accidental opening. Safety harnesses must be worn if there is a risk of a fall.

When removing secondary glazing panels for cleaning or maintenance, there must be a full manual handling assessment, taking into account the weight, size and shape of the panel and it's position relative to the floor level. A panel will weigh approximately 12 Kg. per square metre when glazed in 4mm float glass. This rises to 17Kg per square metre in 6mm float and 29Kg. per square metre in 11.5mm laminate. A minimum of two people should be employed when lifting wide or heavy panels or those at significant heights. The use of appropriate non slip gloves is recommended.

Whenever glass edges become exposed, gloves must be worn and if a panel has to be fully deglazed, wrist and foot protection must also be worn.