Key Updates to Glass Balustrade Standards

• Height-Specific Glass Requirements:
  • For installations below 5 metres:
    • Frameless Systems: Must use 15mm toughened glass with added structural support such as capping rails.
    • Semi-Frameless Systems: Can use 10mm toughened glass, suitable for lower heights.
  • For installations above 5 metres:
    • Requires toughened laminated glass (minimum thickness: 11.52mm to 17.52mm) for enhanced safety and load-bearing capacity.
• Load and Impact Standards: Toughened and laminated glass must meet stricter thresholds for load-bearing and impact resistance, particularly for elevated installations.
• Engineering Requirements: Site-specific engineering certifications are now mandatory to ensure compliance with local conditions and standards.

Benefits of Updated Regulations

• Improved safety by reducing risks associated with glass breakage.
• Laminated glass enhances protection by keeping fragments bonded in case of breakage.
• Thicker, toughened glass increases resistance to pressure and impacts, ensuring long-term durability.

How to Stay Compliant

To ensure your glass balustrade installation meets the latest standards, follow these guidelines:

• Use materials that comply with the National Construction Code (NCC) and AS1288:2021.
• Conduct site-specific engineering assessments.
• Obtain documentation from suppliers or installers verifying product compliance.

Design and Material Choices

The updated regulations still allow for stylish and modern designs. Frameless balustrades with laminated or toughened glass ensure compliance without compromising aesthetics. Low-iron glass options are also available for a clearer, sleeker appearance while meeting the new safety standards.