Sneeze Guards 101
Shield workers from germs. Centennial Glass provides manufactured and custom sneeze guards made to fit every kind of checkout or reception area.
What Is a Sneeze Guard?
Sneeze Guards were commonly used for buffets, but not anymore. They are essential to stop the spread of contamination and protect employees and customers alike. They can be made from Plexiglass, Lexan and Tempered glass (safety glass). Every business if open or opening in the near future, that interacts directly with customers will need a Sneeze Guard or Glass Barrier solution. Consider either a temporary Sneeze Guard or Permanent Sneeze Guard solution.
What Are Sneeze Guards Made Of?
Sneeze Guards and Barriers are typically made from 3 materials:
Plexiglass Plexiglass are made of acrylic. Plexiglass shields are lightweight, somewhat scratch resistant, and resist yellowing. (Use only soap and water to clean, or a special plastic cleaner).
Lexan Glass Lexan is a polycarbonate resin thermoplastic. Lexan is less rigid than plexiglass making it ideal for situations of direct contact. It is also highly resistant to acids and chemicals, such as gasoline. Lexan is easier to scratch, more expensive and has lower clarity than glass.
Tempered Glass (Safety Glass) Tempered glass is the ideal material for permanent solutions as it is more rigid and scratch resistant, and easy to clean. The choice of a glass barrier material depends on several factors, including:
- Location of Installation
- Seasonal, Permanent or Semi-Permanent
- Design of the barrier
Do Sneeze Guards and Glass Barriers Work?
Sneeze guards and glass barriers serve as a protective barrier that physically blocks respiratory droplets and unnecessary physical contact. The effectiveness of a sneeze guard/barrier depends on:
- Protecting the frontal (face to face) interaction area
- Additional side protection
- Placement of Communication Holes and Pass-throughs for goods and payment
- Customized solutions are usually better than prefabricated units, and last longer for a better ROI (return on your investment)
Installed or DIY?
There are many DIY or prefab Sneeze Guards in the marketplace. Of course a Customized Installed Solution will provide:
- Better protection
- Better aesthetic design
- Permanence
Although having a Sneeze Guard/Barrier for your Countertop or Reception Areas is better than nothing at all. It’s a precautionary step to protect your employees, your customers, and your products.
Samples of our Work: Glass Guards and Barriers
Centennial Glass featured on CTV News
Please send us your requirements
We can provide advice and options. Centennial Glass has been providing glass and plastic solutions in Ottawa and the Valley for almost 55 years.
