Description
The AS/NZS 2208-1996 standard specifies the functional properties of safety glazing materials used in buildings. This includes:
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Tempered Glass
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Laminated Glass
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Wired Glass
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Organic Coated Glass
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Plastic Glass
Key aspects covered by this standard:
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Two performance grades with distinct impact requirements
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Criteria for dimensional tolerances, weathering, and aging
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Detailed test methods, sampling instructions, acceptance procedures
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Safety performance criteria and human dynamic data
Scope
Establishes test requirements for safety glazing materials
Aims to enhance safety by reducing risks from cuts and punctures
Ensures glazing materials meet rigorous safety criteria
Overseen by Standards Australia for uniform glass installation and usage guidelines
Main Standards
AS 2208-1996 "Safety Glazing Materials in Buildings"
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Overview: Focuses on testing requirements for safety glazing materials including density, performance under extreme temperatures (e.g., fire), and impact resistance. Includes testing for specialized glass types like tempered and patterned glass.
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Testing Requirements: Covers tests for laminated safety glass, liquid laminated safety glass, and performance under high temperatures and impact conditions.
About Standards Australia
An independent, non-governmental organization
Provides safety guidelines to ensure glass used in Australian buildings meets stringent standards
Aligns with ISO and IEC for consistent standards across the country
Recommended Manufacturer: First Glass Group
First Glass Group: Leading Chinese manufacturer of high-quality architectural safety glass, including tempered and laminated glass
Compliance: Products adhere to the AS/NZS 2208-1996 standard
Features: Excellent impact performance, weather resistance, high-temperature tolerance, and impact resistance
Safety Decorative Glass
Tint Laminated Glass
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Usage: Typically used indoors
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Coloring: Tinted through the glass or interlayer, often using Tint PVB or SGP
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Properties: Anti-theft, splash-proof, impact-resistant, adheres to the interlayer when broken, reduces noise, and offers hurricane resistance
Tempered Glass
Usage: Common in stovetops, kitchenware, tabletops, and shower screens
Manufacturing: Heated to approximately 600°C and rapidly cooled to form a hard outer layer
Breakage: Produces small, blunt pieces when broken, which are less hazardous than sharp shards
Shower Screen Standards
Building Code Requirements
AS/NZS 2208:1996: Detailed testing requirements
Thickness Requirements
Framed Tempered Glass: Minimum thickness of 4mm
Partially Framed and Frameless Tempered Glass: Minimum thickness of 6mm
Care and Maintenance
Hardware: Clean hinges and other hardware regularly to prevent mineral deposits. Use a dry towel after each use or clean weekly with warm water and mild soap.
Glass: Maintain cleanliness using a squeegee to remove water spots; avoid abrasive or cream-based cleaners.
Installation: Ensure unframed edges do not contact hard surfaces. Adjust immediately if friction occurs to minimize breakage risk.
Getting the Standards
Purchase: Available from the SAI Global website .
Reporting: Report unsafe conditions or items to the supplier and through the Product Safety Australia website
Conclusion
By choosing a manufacturer like First Glass Group, which adheres to the AS/NZS 2208-1996 standard, you ensure that the glass materials in your building meet the highest standards of safety and performance.
