| Reviewed by: | Suzanne Deadman, 20 05 2025 |
| Ratified by: | Resources Committee, 05 06 2025 |
| Next Review: | Summer 2027 |
Glazing Procedure
This procedure applies to existing glazing, to glass replacement following accidental or malicious damage and to contracts where complete windows are replaced as part of alteration of improvement works, which could include:
- Replacement of windows with complete new double glazed units or ad-hoc replacement of sashes or casements.
- Alterations:
- Change of use of rooms may increase risks (e.g. change from classroom to activity area)
- Moving external play areas or pathways adjacent to glazing
- Re-routing of fire escape routes, corridors etc. • Building works (alterations, extensions, new buildings or even maintenance works). These operations themselves may increase risks or create risks where they were previously not in existence (e.g. damage to glazed roof lights when working on roofs). Please note that the safety film which was applied to make some areas safe has a limited lifespan (approximately 10 years if fitted internally and 5 years if fitted externally) and the duty holder must regularly check and maintain its integrity.
When considering which glass qualifies for upgrading or replacement there are numerous factors to be considered before recommending the action to be taken:
- Current legislation. The most relevant being Regulation 14 of the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 which requires that ‘every window or other transparent or translucent surface in a wall, partition, door or gate should, where necessary for reasons of health or safety, be of a safety material or be protected against breakage of the transparent or translucent material; and be appropriately marked or incorporate features to make it apparent.’
- Type of school
- Ages of pupils attending these schools
- Age and construction of the various buildings
- Location of glass within the premises
- Use of spaces adjacent to the glass in question
- Any recorded accidents
- Condition of window casements, sashes and frames, suitability and condition of door closers
- Window latches, stays, etc
- Any other local issues
- As a general principle it is essential that, where glazing is replaced, for whatever reason, a full risk assessment be prepared which will determine the type of glass to be used and the method by which it will be replaced. This is particularly relevant with respect to fire doors, escape routes, kitchens, etc.
- Similarly, when embarking on any building or alteration works (particularly change of use), risk assessments must be prepared.
- Other issues may also be highlighted as a result of the above, for instance, the direction doors and windows open.
- In some cases, further improvements may be considered such as the use of solar reflective film or glass to those elevations suffering from solar gain.
- Some glazed doors or windows have large clear panels. To prevent collision, manifestation is required by means of glass etching, self adhesive materials, signs, etc.
- Where the school is responsible for upgrading or reglazing they will check the credentials of installers and the quality of the work and glass (safety glass should always have a visible ‘Kite mark’).
Lewisham Council has a List of Approved Contractors.
Inspection & Maintenance
Once installed, the glazing should be regularly inspected and any damage repaired as soon as possible. Where necessary, areas/rooms may need to be taken out of use, whilst awaiting the repair.
Health & Safety Incidents
Any health and safety accidents/incidents caused by glazing must be reported including near misses.
Review
This procedure will be reviewed every two years or sooner if required.