UK glass regulations: a quick-reference guide

All large-scale building projects in the UK are governed by building regulations. There are two main regulatory sources to be aware of:

• The UK government's official Building Regulations, which set the legal minimums for building projects
• The British (BS) and European (BS EN) standards, which provide guidance and best practices to achieve compliance with regulations
  
  

This article is intended as a quick-reference guide to these regulations as they apply to glass. It is not in any way a substitute for the regulations themselves. Always refer to official documentation. If in doubt, seek professional advice.

Where safety glass is required

Building Regulations Approved Document K (Protection from falling, collision and impact)

This document covers the measures builders should take to protect the public from falling, collision and impact.

It sets standards for stairs, ramps, ladders, guarding and glazing. It specifies safety glass (toughened or laminated) in large panes, doors and low windows. 

Read Building Regulations Approved Document K here.

Glass manifestations

Building Regulations Part M (Access to and use of buildings)

This document lays out standards surrounding the access and use of buildings. It focuses on people with disabilities or limited mobility and covers topics including approach, entry and facilities. It applies to both dwellings and non-dwellings.

Part M is relevant to the supply and use of glass because it requires glass in entrance doors and screens to have manifestations (markings) at two height levels to ensure they're visible, thereby preventing collisions. 

Read Building Regulations Approved Document M here.

The impact safety of flat glass in buildings

BS EN 12600

BS EN 12600 is the European standard for the impact safety of flat glass in buildings. It classifies glass into three classes (1, 2 and 3) according to the results of a pendulum test, carried out from different drop heights (1200mm, 450mm and 190mm).

This drop test simulates impacts and ensures that glass breaks safely before going to market. It also dictates the kinds of glass required for locations such as doors and low-level windows.

Read BS EN 12600 here.

BS 6206

This is the older standard for impact safety. It's still referenced, despite having been replaced by BS EN 12600.

Fire safety

Approved Document B (Fire Safety)

Approved Document B (Fire Safety) mandates fire-rated glass in specific locations. The specifications for fire-rated glass are covered by BS EN 1363, BS EN 1634 and BS 476.

Read Approved Document B (Fire Safety) here.

Read BS EN 1363 here.

Read BS EN 1634 here.

Read BS 476 here.

Balustrade glass

BS 6180:2011: Code of practice for barriers

BS 6180:2011 is the British Standard that lays out the regulations surrounding the design and construction of barriers. These include balustrades, handrails and guardrails.

These regulations are there to protect members of the public from falls and hazards by specifying requirements for materials, structural integrity, height and load resistance.

Read BS 6180:2011 here.

Why is it important to follow UK glass regulations?

Manufacturers, suppliers, designers, builders, landlords and others follow UK glass regulations in the interests of public safety. Compliance with these regulations also acts as legal protection from liability in the case of an accident.

ToughGlaze is a trusted UK toughened glass supplier founded in 1993. For more glass guides, visit our free resource hub.