LockNClimb
Standing on tires has caused many injuries to big truck windshield installers.

Safety tips for repairing cracked windshields

March 5, 2025
Unrepaired windshields obviously create safety issues for commercial drivers on the road, but even fixing them in the shop can be hazardous. Here are some things to keep in mind.

One thing to keep in mind is that commercial vehicle windshields are heavy, weighing 40 to 60 lbs., and even more for the new Amazon delivery vans. Technicians who install them are vulnerable to all kinds of shoulder and back accidents. And trying to heft one up while standing on a tire or flimsy stepladder risks all kinds of injuries from slips or falls.

Ensuring your repair shop is equipped with sturdier safety ladders is an easy way to mitigate technician downtime and possible workman’s compensation claims. This also helps prevent accidental damage during the service repair. These windshields are robust but still glass. A misplaced bootstep or dropped tool can cause a tech to start over with a new windshield. 

Jeff Green, president/CEO of LockNClimb, a maker of ergonomic safety ladders, noted this is why one major glass repair company reached out. They were seeing a lot of excessive damage during big truck windshield installs.

“We found a quick solution by simply modifying an existing ladder used for truck engine service,” Green said Technicians now can stand on a stable platform over the truck tires inside safety railings when removing and replacing a truck windshield.”

Green noted these ladders are OSHA 1AA special purpose ANSI rated up to 375 lbs. LockNClimb’s safety ladders are made from 6061-grade industrial quality aluminum composition and include extra-wide comfort treads and slip-resistant material.

About the Author

Banning K. Lary

Banning K. Lary, PhD is a widely published freelance writer and documentarian whose work has been viewed by millions of people around the world. He currently specializes in the subjects of safety, law, science, ergonomics, health and the social sciences.

Sponsored Recommendations

Are you aware of the hidden costs lurking behind ignored maintenance? This eBook reveals how neglecting upkeep can inate repair bills, induce downtime, and harm reliability. ...
Are your KPIs driving real fleet improvement? Learn how to set smarter, data-driven benchmarks, track success like top-performing fleets, and apply proven strategies to optimize...
Fullbay's fifth annual State of Heavy-Duty Repair compiles insights from almost 1,000 experts and over 3,500 shops. If you aren't leveraging these proven data points, your competition...
Quality body repairs on medium- and heavy-duty trucks depend on the use of specialized adhesives, sealers, and other allied materials. Unfortunately, many shops face challenges...