What are the Safety Aspects for Installing a Glass Balustrade

When it comes to the safety aspects for installing a glass balustrade and understanding when to add a glass balustrade is crucial for ensuring safety and compliance with building codes. This guide outlines the maximum step height before a balustrade is required and provides safety considerations for installation.

Ensuring Safety: Maximum Step Height Before Adding a Balustrade

The maximum step height, or “rise,” before a balustrade is required is governed by building codes and regulations, which vary by region. These codes ensure safety and accessibility in both residential and commercial properties. Here are the general guidelines for maximum step height before adding a balustrade.

General Guidelines

Glass Balustrades for Residential Properties:

• International Building Code (IBC): Typically, a balustrade or guardrail is required if the vertical drop from one level to the next exceeds 30 inches (762 mm).
• UK Building Regulations: A guardrail or balustrade is required if the fall height exceeds 600 mm (approximately 23.6 inches).

Glass Balustrades for Commercial Properties:

• International Building Code (IBC): For commercial properties, a guardrail or balustrade is also required if the drop exceeds 30 inches (762 mm).
• UK Building Regulations: Similar to residential properties, a balustrade is needed if the fall height exceeds 600 mm (approximately 23.6 inches).

When considering the installation of a glass balustrade, meeting the meticulous standards of building control is paramount so use professional installers who are experienced with glass balustrades.

Key Safety Aspects for Installing a Glass Balustrade

Material Selection:

Revive Balustrade supplies both Toughened Glass (Tempered) and Toughened and Laminated Glass

• Toughened glass is made by heating the glass to a high temperature (about 600-700°C) and then cooling rapidly. This process creates compressive stresses on the surface and tensile stresses in the interior, making the glass much stronger than regular glass.
• Laminated glass consists of two or more layers of glass bonded together with a plastic interlayer (usually polyvinyl butyral or PVB). This interlayer holds the glass layers together, even if the glass breaks, reducing the risk of injury from sharp edges and preventing the glass from shattering into large pieces.

  Safety Features:

• Toughened Glass:

 When broken, toughened glass shatters into small, blunt pieces instead of sharp shards, reducing the risk of injury.

However, once it breaks, toughened glass loses its integrity and cannot remain in place. 

• Toughened and Laminated Glass:

Toughened and Laminated glass is designed to hold together when shattered. The interlayer keeps the glass intact, preventing it from breaking into large, sharp pieces.

Even if the glass is cracked, it can stay in place, providing a barrier until it is replaced.

• Compliance with Standards: Ensure the glass complies with local safety standards, such as BS 6180 in the UK, ASTM E2353 in the USA, or other relevant regulations.
• Edge Protection: Install protective edging or capping to cover exposed glass edges and reduce the risk of injury.
• Non-Slip Surfaces: Ensure the floor or stair surfaces adjacent to the balustrade are non-slip to prevent accidents.

Load-Bearing Capacity:

• Load-Bearing Capacity: Ensure the balustrade can support the necessary loads, including potential impact and wind loads if installed outdoors.
• Height Regulations: The minimum height for balustrades is generally around 900 mm (35.4 inches) for residential stairs, 1000 mm (39.4 inches) for residential balconies, and 1100 mm (43.3 inches) for commercial properties.
• Secure Fixings and Supports: Use high-quality, corrosion-resistant fixings such as stainless steel or aluminium. Ensure all anchors and brackets are securely fixed to the substrate.

Installation Techniques:   

• Professional Installation: Consider hiring experienced professionals for installation to ensure compliance with safety standards and building codes.
• Proper Spacing: Maintain consistent spacing between glass panels to ensure stability and aesthetics. The gap between panels or between the glass and support structures should not exceed 100 mm (4 inches).
• Handrails:

Height and Placement: Handrails should be installed at a height of 34 to 38 inches (865 to 965 mm) above the stair nosing for added safety.

Continuous Handrails: Ensure the handrails are continuous along the entire length of the staircase or balcony.

• Maintenance and Inspection:

Regular Inspections: Conduct routine inspections for any signs of damage, wear, or loosening of fixings. Address any issues promptly to maintain safety.

Cleaning: Clean the glass and metal components regularly to prevent deterioration from environmental factors. Use appropriate cleaning solutions to avoid damaging the materials.

• Compliance with Local Building Codes:

Permits and Approvals: Obtain any necessary permits and ensure the installation complies with local building codes and regulations.

Professional Advice: Consult with architects or structural engineers to ensure the design and installation meet all safety requirements.

By using a professional installer when considering the installation of a glass balustrade, you will ensure the key safety aspects for installing a glass balustrade are compliant and adhered to.

For a FREE no obligation quote for your installation of a glass balustrade, call Adrian on 07714 750909 NOW!