Risk factors for laboratory glassware scratches:
(1) abrasive cleaners
(2) metal spine on cleaning brushes
(3) use of other hard tools or instruments
(4) rough handling
(5) exposure to corrosive chemicals
(6) poor quality glass
(7) prolonged use
Scratched glass is more likely to break.
Risk factors for breakage of scratched glass:
(1) heating to high temperatures
(2) sudden and extreme change in temperature
(3) sudden physical shock
(4) centrifugation
(5) use of a strong corrosive
(6) high pressure
Consequences of broken glassware:
(1) cuts from glass fragments
(2) exposure to any chemicals that were within the glassware
(3) lost productivity
