Safe Use of Suction Cups
A safety talk covering seal inspection, load testing, and preventing drops when using suction-cup lifters.
Scan to open or share
Point your phone at this code to open this talk, or screenshot it and text it to coworkers.
Printable Resources
Link to printable files for crew meetings, briefings, or documentation.
Key Hazards
- Dropped glass or panels
- Seal failure from dirt
- Hand injuries from sudden release
2–3 Minute Talk Script
Safe use of suction cups is essential for glaziers and installers. Suction lifters provide control over large, smooth materials but rely on clean, undamaged seals.
Workers should inspect suction pads for cracks or dirt before attaching.
Different materials require different suction ratings—glass, metal, and stone all behave differently.
Testing the seal by pulling gently before lifting prevents sudden release.
Safety Reminders
- Inspect pads before lifting.
- Test suction seal before moving.
- Keep surfaces clean.
- Use two-person lifts for large panels.
Ask the Crew
- Is the surface clean enough for suction lifting?
- Do we need additional workers for this lift?