July 5, 2023 Lois Edwards

When Should You Use Toughened Glass?

Toughened glass is a popular option for home and office spaces because of its increased strength and durability compared to regular glass. However, you might be wondering when it’s necessary to use toughened glass over regular glass.

In this article, we’ll explore the situations when you would need to use toughened glass, the health and safety regulations in place, and the types of toughened glass available.

When is toughened glass needed?

Toughened glass is needed in situations where regular glass would not be strong enough to withstand impact.

This could include areas where there is a high risk of impact, such as near doors, at a low level where people could fall into it, or in commercial spaces with high levels of foot traffic and customers.

Health and safety regulations may also require the use of toughened glass in certain settings, particularly in commercial or public spaces.

Four examples of when you’d need to use toughened glass

1. Doors

Doors are a common area where toughened glass is needed, particularly if the door is in a high-traffic area. If the door swings open quickly or forcefully, it could easily shatter a regular glass panel if it bangs into the wall (or a person).

Toughened glass can withstand this impact, reducing the risk of injury.

2. Windows near doors

Similarly, windows that are located near doors may be at risk of impact from the door swinging open. Using toughened glass in these windows helps prevent the glass from shattering and causing harm.

3. Low-level windows

Windows that are at a low level and within reach of people, particularly children, may need to be made from toughened glass to prevent injury if they are broken.

4. Glass partitions in offices

Glass partitions are becoming increasingly popular in modern office spaces. However, if a partition is in a high-traffic area or near a door, it may be necessary to use toughened glass to prevent it from shattering on impact.

Why is toughened glass needed in these areas?

Toughened safety glass is used in these areas to reduce the risk of injury if the glass is impacted or broken. Unlike regular glass, which can break into large sharp pieces, toughened glass shatters into small, blunt pieces. This reduces the risk of further injury and makes it a safer option for high-risk areas.

Which type of toughened glass should you use?

If you are considering using toughened glass in your home or office, there are a variety of options available. The type of glass you choose will depend on your specific needs, such as the level of impact resistance required and any additional features you may need. At EGW, we offer a range of toughened glass options to suit your needs. Contact us to find out more about which type of toughened glass is right for you.