Since the Code Assistance Unit receives many questions regarding the four (4) general glazing in windows criteria listed in Section 2406.4.3 of the International Building Code/2015 (and the identical code requirements at Section R308.4.3 of the International Residential Code/2015); this article provides the simple answer.

The “Glazing in Windows” section states: Glazing in an individual fixed or operable panel that meets ALL of the following conditions shall be considered to be a hazardous location.

1. The exposed area of an individual pane is larger than 9 square feet;
2. The bottom edge of the glazing is less than 18 inches above the floor;
3. The top edge of the glazing is more than 36 inches above the floor; AND
4. One or more walking surfaces are within 36 inches, measured horizontally and in a straight line, of the glazing.

The code clearly states that all four criteria must be triggered for the window glazing to be considered a hazardous location requiring safety glazing (criteria #3 has an “and” to inform the user that all four criteria are required). If only one, two, or three of the conditions are triggered, this would not require safety glazing.

Source: Rob Austin Code Assistance Unit (609) 984-7609

Reprinted with permission CCC – Spring 2017