Cut, shape and install glass in all kinds of spaces
As a Glazier, you work with different types of glass to create windows, doors, mirrors and other glass features in homes, shops and buildings. You measure spaces, cut glass to size and check for defects before installing it. You use tools to shape, trim and smooth the edges so each piece fits safely and neatly. You lift and position glass into frames, secure it in place and seal it to keep out weather and noise. Sometimes you add special finishes like tinting, etching or coatings. Your work helps improve the look, safety and comfort of buildings, and you use care and accuracy every day to get the job done right.
For further information:
Glass & Glazing Association of South Australia
Ph: (08) 8358 1541
Email: patfull@ozemail.com.au
Website: www.agga.org.au

Construction Industry Training Board (SA)
Ph: (08) 8172 9500
Email: citb@citb.org.au
Website: http://citb.org.au

TAFE SA offers a Certificate III in Glass and Glazing.

For more details on apprenticeships, see Traineeship & Apprenticeship Services Website at http://www.skills.sa.gov.au/apprenticeships-traineeships or phone the Freecall number 1800 673 097.

This occupation is subject to fluctuations in the building and construction industry, which continues to experience only moderate activity at the present time.

Opportunities also exist in repair and maintenance works.

Flat glass tradespersons work with other tradespeople, such as builders as well as the public, on a daily basis, so in addition to their trade skills, it is essential that they have good communication skills. Before a job gets underway, flat glass tradespersons obtain the dimensions for a glass product from plans or from drawings or measurements taken on site. The glass is then cut using a technique where it is 'scored' and broken off using cutters. At this stage, any imperfections in the glass are removed. In some cases, the edges are shaped or decorated, ensuring that they are smooth (known as bevelling). Finally, the glass is fitted using different methods and mediums such as putty, chemicals or rubber. Decorative finishes may be applied to enhance the overall appearance of the glass. Completion of a specialist training course is required to go into the area of glass decoration. Engraving designs into the glass by grinding, sandblasting or by using acid results in embossed glass. Adding a solution to one side of the glass, making it silver or reflective is used to make mirrors.

There are some hazards, such as removing broken glass from windows, and in some cases, working at heights, that are associated with this trade. If you have a phobia about working well above ground level, then you need to think twice about this job. Handling glass can be extremely dangerous. Glass is produced in gauges from 2mm to 25mm. The thicker the glass, the heavier it will be. Safety policies regarding lifting are, therefore, important. To minimise any danger, the glass should be lifted in a certain way, and of course, tradespeople should only lift a manageable weight on their own. Mechanical equipment is used to move or lift glass that is too heavy to carry.

Several manual and practical skills are required to operate the equipment needed for the job. Glaziers use cutters, drills, pliers, glass and wheel cutters, and bevelling wheels. Technological change has led to the introduction of computerised, automatic cutting equipment, which in turn has minimised waste.

A flat glass tradesperson usually works between the hours of 7am and 5pm except if an emergency occurs out of work hours. Some overtime may occur on evenings and on weekends. A lot of travelling can be expected when going between work sites.