A method and apparatus for maintaining a glue applicator unit ready for operation after short or long term stoppages of a gluing operation. During short term stoppages, the applicator unit is pivoted away from the workpieces to which the glue is to be applied to a first rest position at which the nozzles are brought into tight engagement with a sealing means that includes a yieldable surface to surround and overlie the nozzles to provide an airtight seal. During long-term stoppages the glue applicators are pivoted beyond the first rest position to a second rest position at which the nozzles are in communication with a drain channel and purge fluid is sent through the applicator to pass through the nozzles and carry the glue and purge fluid to a collecting container, so that the nozzles are clear for subsequent start-up of the glue-applying operation.