Performance Standards for Safety Glass: European Standard EN 12600

Safety glass is a critical component in modern architecture and automotive design, offering protection against impact and ensuring the safety of occupants. The European Standard EN 12600 is the current performance standard that classifies the impact resistance of safety glass. This standard has replaced the older BS 6206, providing a more contemporary approach to testing and classification.

EN12600 Safety Standards for Glass

EN 12600 Classifications

The EN 12600 standard classifies safety glass into three main categories, based on the impact resistance level achieved during testing. The classifications are as follows:

Class 1B1
Class 2B2
Class 3B3

To determine the classification, the glass is subjected to a Safety Standard Test, where a specified weight is dropped from different heights onto a standard-sized pane of glass. The classification is assigned based on the point at which the glass breaks, taking into account the type and severity of breakage.

Drop Heights and Classifications

The EN 12600 standard defines three drop heights, each correlating to a specific class:

Class 3B3 (190mm drop height): This level is intended to simulate the impact equivalent to an adult pushing hard against the glass or a child running into it.
Class 2B2 (450mm drop height): This classification represents a higher impact force, similar to an adult walking into a glass door, but not quite a full-force run or determined attempt to breach the glass.
Class 1B1 (1200mm drop height): The highest classification, used for critical applications, simulates a strong impact, such as a person running into the glass or an object striking it with considerable force.

Breakage Modes

The type of breakage, referred to as “Type B breakage,” is commonly associated with glass that has a safety film or is laminated. In such cases, the fragments of glass are held together by the film or laminate, reducing the risk of injury from sharp edges.

Comparison Between BS EN 12600 and BS 6206

The transition from BS 6206 to BS EN 12600 brought about changes in classification but retained similar performance levels. Here is a comparison of the classifications:

Applications of Safety Glazing

Safety glass is essential in ‘high-risk’ areas where breakage could lead to significant harm or injury. It is designed to mitigate the potential dangers associated with glass fractures and to enhance overall safety.

PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR SAFETY GLASS

Common uses of safety glass include:

Low-Level Windows: Provides extra protection in areas where glass is more vulnerable to impacts.
Door Glazing: Ensures that glass in doors can withstand everyday use and accidental impacts.
Balustrades: Used in railings and barriers to prevent accidents while maintaining visibility.
Glass Stairs: Adds safety to staircases by reducing the risk of injuries from breakage.
Glass Floors: Supports heavy foot traffic while providing a clear, durable surface.
Furniture: Applied to items like shower screens, tables, and worktops to prevent damage and ensure durability.

By employing safety glass in these applications, you can enhance the safety and resilience of glass installations in both residential and commercial settings.

Enhancing Glass Safety: The Role of Safety Window Films

To upgrade glazing in buildings to meet the EN 12600 standard, various types of safety window films can be applied. These films not only improve impact resistance but also provide additional benefits such as UV protection, glare reduction, and increased security.

Safety Window Films by Classification

Class 1B1 Safety Films:

Class 2B2 Safety Films:

These safety films fully comply with the EN 12600 standard, providing reliable protection and helping to meet all current safety regulations.

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