Question:
If glass breaks in a living space on shabbos am I permitted to vacuum the shards if I am concerned the children could otherwise step on the glass and be hurt and that a broom may not be as effective?
Answer:
Hello,
You should not vacuum the shards, rather sweep them up as best as you can. According to a number of poskim, turning on an electric item is considered a melacha, and is only allowed in order to save someone’s life, which is not the case here. However, even an issur d’rabonon would not be allowed, unless there is a strong chance that people will get hurt, which is also not the case here, as sweeping the glass will do a good job.
Best wishes
