Miron News

When it comes to the safe installation of glass in buildings, the National Building Regulations in South Africa have very specific requirements.

These regulations ensure that architects and designers select the right type of glass for windows, skylights panels, partitioning and doors within a building which are suitable for their applications.

Safety Glass Specifications Standards – National Building Regulations SANS 10400

These specifications ensure that the building and its occupants are protected from potential injury related to the incorrect installation of glass.

The regulations ensure that window glazing in any building is done correctly and is secure, durable and fixed in such a way that:

• Water cannot leak into the building
• Strong winds do not damage the glass
• People are able to see the glass clearly so they don’t mistake it for an open space
• All glass that has been installed must be strong enough to prevent injury in the case of someone walking into it

The SANS 10400 specifies where safety glass is required and where standard or annealed glass is acceptable.

Glazing Regulations South Africa – Safe Installation of Glass

Glazing must comply with SANS 613 to ensure that it can withstand impact and wind loads according to SANS 10400-B, which addresses the correct structural design of a building.

Furthermore, where glass may not be noticed by people approaching it, there must be a sign or marking which serves as a warning and is clearly visible.

In addition, these standards also specify where frameless glass may and may not be installed.

Where is Safety Glass Required?

Standard glass may be used in a door pane that is not larger than one square meter. However, this glass must be a minimum of 6mm thick.
For areas that are larger than one square meter, safety glass must be used.

In situations where windows are not protected by barriers, the window sill must be at least 300mm above the floor.

When a window reaches the floor, and there is no protective barrier in front of it, it poses a serious safety risk for anyone approaching it.
In such cases, it’s required that safety glass is used for an area of at least 800mm above the floor.

In addition, safety glass must be used in shower cubicles, bath enclosures, shop windows or fronts that are larger than one square meter.

Lastly, safety glass must also be used for balustrades or walls leading to ramps or stairways where the glass used is less than 1.8 meters above the landing.

Miron Frameless Glass – Safety Glass Manufacturers in Cape Town

The National Building Regulations of South Africa have been put into place to ensure utmost safety when designing and constructing buildings.
For more information about glazing regulations in South Africa, please contact us at any time.