Canadian Glass Safety Standards
The Canadian General Standards Board (CGSB) establishes comprehensive safety standards for glass installation, including requirements for impact resistance, thickness, and installation methods. These standards ensure that glass products meet rigorous safety and performance criteria across various applications.
Tempered Glass Installation Specifications
General Requirements
- Minimum thickness: 6mm for standard applications
- Maximum panel size: 3000mm x 2400mm
- Edge clearance: Minimum 3mm, maximum 6mm
- Setting blocks: Minimum 25mm from corners
Height and Distance Regulations
- For buildings under 10m height: Maximum glass height of 2400mm
- For buildings 10-20m height: Maximum glass height of 2000mm
- For buildings over 20m height: Maximum glass height of 1800mm
- Minimum distance from floor: 900mm for safety barriers
- Maximum distance between supports: 1200mm for vertical installations
Special Applications
- Shower enclosures: Minimum thickness 8mm
- Balustrades: Minimum thickness 10mm
- Overhead glazing: Minimum thickness 12mm
Handling and Storage Guidelines
- Always wear cut-resistant gloves and safety glasses
- Use suction cups for panels larger than 1m²
- Store glass at 15-30° angle with edge protection
- Maximum stack height: 1.5m for vertical storage
- Use padded A-frames for horizontal storage
Installation Best Practices
Structural Requirements
- Frame deflection limit: L/175 for vertical installations
- Maximum wind load resistance: 2.5 kPa
- Minimum frame depth: 40mm for standard installations
Sealing and Glazing
- Use silicone sealant with 50% movement capability
- Minimum sealant depth: 6mm
- Maximum joint width: 12mm
- Cure time: 24 hours before load application
Maintenance and Inspection
- Inspect glass every 6 months for stress cracks
- Check sealant integrity annually
- Clean with pH-neutral cleaners only
- Maximum cleaning pressure: 500 psi
- Replace damaged glass within 48 hours of identification
Disclaimer
This guide is provided for informational purposes only and is based on standards established by the Canadian General Standards Board (CGSB). While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, IGP Glass does not guarantee its completeness or applicability to specific situations. Always consult with qualified professionals and refer to the latest CGSB standards and local building codes for your specific project requirements.