Glass plays a crucial role in both homes and businesses, offering natural light, visibility, and aesthetic appeal. However, not all glass is the same—when safety is a priority, choosing the right type of glass can make all the difference. Upgrading to safety glass isn’t just a smart investment; in many cases, it’s a legal requirement under Australian Standards. Let’s explore the different types of safety glass, why compliance matters, and how it enhances security and injury prevention.
Toughened Glass, Laminated Glass & Standard Glass: What’s The Difference?
Understanding the differences between glass types is essential when selecting the safest option for your property:
✅ Standard Glass – Also known as annealed glass, this is the most basic type of glass found in older buildings. When broken, it shatters into sharp, jagged pieces, posing a serious injury risk. Standard glass is no longer recommended for high-impact areas like doors, windows, and shopfronts.
✅ Toughened Glass – Also called tempered glass, toughened glass is heat-treated to increase its strength. If it breaks, it shatters into small, blunt pieces, significantly reducing the risk of serious injury. It is commonly used in doors, balustrades, shower screens, and commercial shopfronts due to its superior durability and safety.
✅ Laminated Glass – Made by bonding two layers of glass with a tough plastic interlayer, laminated glass stays intact even when shattered. This makes it an excellent choice for security applications, such as shopfronts, skylights, and glass partitions. It also provides additional noise reduction and UV protection.
Why Safety Glass Is Crucial For Compliance With Australian Standards
In Australia, glass installations must meet AS1288-2021, the national standard for glass in buildings. This ensures that glass used in homes and businesses is fit for purpose, reducing the risk of injury and property damage.
Failing to comply with safety glass regulations can lead to:
❌ Legal liabilities and fines
❌ Increased risk of injury to staff, customers, and residents
❌ Higher costs due to repeated repairs or insurance claims
Common areas where safety glass is mandatory include:
- Glass doors and sidelights
- Low-level windows (within 1 metre of the floor)
- Shopfronts and commercial entrances
- Balustrades, pool fencing, and shower screens
How Upgrading To Safety Glass Enhances Security & Prevents Injuries
✔ Protects People – Safety glass minimises injury risks by preventing dangerous shards from causing harm. This is particularly important in workplaces, schools, and homes with children.
✔ Improves Security – Laminated glass adds an extra layer of protection against break-ins, as it remains intact even when cracked. This can deter thieves and reduce the risk of forced entry.
✔ Reduces Liability Risks – Business owners and property managers have a duty of care to provide a safe environment. Using compliant safety glass lowers the chance of accidents, protecting both people and your reputation.
✔ Enhances Energy Efficiency – Laminated glass provides insulation benefits, helping regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy costs.
✔ Long-Term Durability – Toughened and laminated glass are more resistant to impact and wear, making them a cost-effective solution in the long run.
Upgrade To Safety Glass With Glass Express
If your home or business still has standard glass in high-risk areas, now is the time to upgrade. At Glass Express, we specialise in fast, reliable glass replacement services that meet Australian Safety Standards. Whether you need toughened glass, laminated glass, or a full shopfront upgrade, our expert glaziers ensure a seamless, hassle-free installation.
🔹 Fully Licensed & Insured
🔹 High-Quality, Australian Standard-Compliant Glass
🔹 Fast Emergency Glass Replacement Available
💡 Don’t Wait For An Accident To Happen—Upgrade To Safety Glass Today! Contact Glass Express for expert advice and a free quote.