How To Read Safety Glass Window Specifications On Plans: A Guide To Performance And Standards [Updated On 2024]

Review safety glass window specifications using ANSI Z97.1 standards. These standards detail glazing performance. Use clear language in plans. Learn about glass types like laminated and tempered glass. Check all specifications in construction blueprints to make informed decisions about window options and design performance.

Next, familiarize yourself with the applicable standards, like those set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) or the National Glass Association. These organizations outline minimum requirements for safety glass performance, ensuring it meets necessary safety and quality benchmarks. Pay special attention to the glass classification, such as tempered or laminated glass, as this impacts durability and safety.

Also, consider the glass thickness and coating details. These can significantly affect energy efficiency and UV protection. If the notes reference specific test results, review them closely to determine if they align with project goals.

By mastering these specifications, you can better ensure your project complies with safety and performance requirements. Following this guidance prepares you for an analysis of installation best practices and how they relate to achieving optimal safety and performance for glass windows in your building design.

Table of Contents

What Are Safety Glass Window Specifications and Why Are They Important?

Safety glass window specifications outline the requirements for glass used in buildings to prevent injuries and enhance safety. These specifications are crucial for regulatory compliance, ensuring durability, and providing protection against breakage.

Types of safety glass:
– Laminated glass
– Tempered glass
– Wire glass
– Acrylic and polycarbonate glass
Performance standards:
– ANSI Z97.1
– CPSC 16 CFR 1201
– ASTM E2649
Key attributes:
– Impact resistance
– Fire resistance
– UV protection
– Thermal insulation
Legal and building code requirements
Opinions on costs and benefits:
– Initial investment vs. long-term safety
– Materials availability influencing choices

Safety glass window specifications are essential for several reasons.

Types of Safety Glass:
Types of safety glass include laminated glass, tempered glass, wire glass, and acrylic or polycarbonate glass. Laminated glass consists of two or more layers of glass bonded together with an interlayer, providing increased strength. Tempered glass undergoes a heating and cooling process that enhances its resistance to impact and thermal stress. Wire glass contains a wire mesh that prevents shattering, while acrylic and polycarbonate glasses are lightweight and shatter-resistant alternatives.
Performance Standards:
Performance standards define the testing requirements for safety glass. ANSI Z97.1 specifies tests for impact safety of glass used in buildings. CPSC 16 CFR 1201 outlines requirements for safety standards for architectural glazing. ASTM E2649 involves performance requirements for both laminated and tempered glass. These standards help ensure safety and performance in different building applications.
Key Attributes:
Key attributes of safety glass include impact resistance, fire resistance, UV protection, and thermal insulation. Impact resistance involves the ability to withstand force without breaking. Fire-resistant glass can slow the spread of fire and smoke. UV protection decreases harmful ultraviolet rays that can cause fading and damage inside buildings. Thermal insulation refers to the glass’s ability to reduce heat transfer, improving energy efficiency.
Legal and Building Code Requirements:
Legal and building code requirements govern the use of safety glass. Many regions require specific types of safety glass in certain applications, like glass doors and windows in public buildings. Compliance with local building codes is essential to avoid legal liabilities and ensure safety.
Opinions on Costs and Benefits:
Opinions vary regarding the costs and benefits of safety glass specifications. Some argue that the initial investment is high but emphasize the long-term safety benefits and potential insurance savings. Others highlight that the availability of materials may impact choices, with some safety glasses being more accessible than others, influencing overall affordability.

In conclusion, safety glass window specifications play a significant role in ensuring the safety, performance, and compliance of building materials. Understanding these specifications helps stakeholders make informed decisions and enhances building safety.

What Key Information Should You Look for in Safety Glass Window Specifications?

To assess safety glass window specifications effectively, you should focus on several key attributes.

Glass type
Thickness
Energy performance rating
Load-bearing capacity
Impact resistance
UV protection
Certification and standards
Manufacturer reputation

Understanding safety glass window specifications involves various factors that influence their performance and reliability in different contexts.

Glass Type: The term “glass type” refers to the material composition of the safety glass, such as laminated or tempered glass. Laminated glass contains layers of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) between sheets of glass, which provides added strength and security. Tempered glass, on the other hand, is heat-treated to enhance safety and strength. According to the Glass Association of North America (GANA), laminated glass is preferred in areas requiring additional security or noise reduction due to its ability to hold together when broken.
Thickness: “Thickness” indicates the measurement of the glass panels. Safety glass typically ranges from 6 mm to over 19 mm in thickness. Thicker glass offers better resistance to breakage and is suited for applications such as storefronts, where safety concerns are paramount. The International Building Code (IBC) sets forth minimum thickness requirements for safety glass used in different settings, ensuring it meets safety standards.
Energy Performance Rating: The term “energy performance rating” denotes how well the glass insulates against heat transfer. Specifications include the U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). Lower U-factors indicate better insulation, meaning the glass can contribute to energy savings in buildings. The Department of Energy emphasizes that selecting energy-efficient windows can reduce heating and cooling costs significantly.
Load-Bearing Capacity: “Load-bearing capacity” refers to how much weight the glass can support without breaking. This is crucial in high-rise buildings where wind loads are a consideration. Specifications should include data regarding the maximum allowable load. The National Glass Association provides guidelines on determining load capacities based on glass size and installation techniques.
Impact Resistance: “Impact resistance” assesses the glass’s ability to withstand sudden force or pressure. It’s often tested using the ANSI Z97.1 and CPSC 16 CFR 1201 standards. Safety glass designed for high-impact scenarios, such as hurricane-prone areas, is typically rated for higher impacts. The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) has specific test methods to measure these properties.
UV Protection: “UV protection” refers to the ability of the glass to block harmful ultraviolet rays. Safety glass with high UV resistance helps preserve indoor furnishings and protects occupants from skin damage. Manufacturers often highlight the percentage of UV reduction achieved, which can be critical in residential or commercial environments with significant sun exposure.
Certification and Standards: “Certification and standards” involve verifying that the glass complies with industry regulations. Quality certifications from organizations like ASTM, ISO, or local building codes are essential. These certifications affirm the product’s performance characteristics under specific laws and standards, providing confidence to builders and consumers regarding safety.
Manufacturer Reputation: “Manufacturer reputation” reflects the credibility and reliability of the company producing the safety glass. Researching manufacturers involves looking at reviews, warranties offered, and industry experience. A reputable manufacturer often adheres to strict quality assurance processes and provides long-lasting products, contributing to overall safety in installations.

By focusing on these factors, you can make informed decisions regarding safety glass window specifications.

How Do Terms Like ‘Laminated’ and ‘Tempered’ Influence Your Choices?

Terms like ‘laminated’ and ‘tempered’ significantly influence your choices in selecting safety glass due to their distinct properties that enhance safety and performance. Understanding these terms helps buyers make informed decisions based on their specific needs.

Laminated glass consists of two or more layers of glass with an interlayer, usually made of polyvinyl butyral (PVB), sandwiched between them. This design provides several benefits:
– Impact resistance: Laminated glass remains intact when shattered, preventing dangerous shards from flying and enhancing safety. This property meets safety standards set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI, 2010).
– UV protection: Laminated glass can block up to 99% of harmful ultraviolet rays, protecting interior spaces and occupants from damage caused by sun exposure.
– Sound insulation: The interlayer dampens sound, making laminated glass an excellent choice for reducing noise pollution in homes and offices.

Tempered glass undergoes a specific heating and cooling process, making it stronger than regular glass. Its main characteristics include:
– Enhanced strength: Tempered glass is five to six times stronger than standard glass of equal thickness. This is particularly useful in high-traffic areas or applications where glass may be subjected to stress.
– Safety upon breakage: When tempered glass breaks, it shatters into tiny, blunt pieces rather than sharp shards, reducing the risk of injury. This safety feature is a critical factor in building codes.
– Thermal resistance: Tempered glass can withstand extreme temperature variations, making it suitable for use in environments with significant temperature fluctuations, such as shower doors and glass facades.

When choosing between laminated and tempered glass, consider your specific needs regarding safety, sound insulation, environmental exposure, and overall performance. Each type serves different applications and offers unique benefits that can significantly influence your final decision.

What Performance Ratings Are Attached to Safety Glass, and What Do They Mean?

Performance ratings attached to safety glass indicate its ability to withstand impact, temperature changes, and other stressors. These ratings help consumers and builders select appropriate glass for various applications.

Impact Resistance
Thermal Resistance
Optical Clarity
Chemical Resistance
Sound Insulation

Understanding these performance ratings is crucial for ensuring safety and compliance with building codes. Here is a detailed explanation of each type of performance rating assigned to safety glass.

Impact Resistance:
Impact resistance refers to the ability of safety glass to withstand physical stress or force without breaking. It is often tested by dropping a specified weight onto the glass from a certain height. According to ASTM standards, tempered glass exhibits higher impact resistance compared to regular glass. For instance, tempered glass can withstand impacts equivalent to about three to five times that of non-tempered glass. This rating is vital for applications where human safety is critical, such as in storefronts or glass railings.
Thermal Resistance:
Thermal resistance indicates how well safety glass can withstand temperature fluctuations. It measures the glass’s ability to handle thermal shock, which occurs when a glass surface experiences rapid temperature changes. Safety glass, particularly tempered and laminated varieties, is designed to endure these changes without cracking. The National Glass Association notes that tempered glass can survive temperature differentials of approximately 250°F, making it suitable for environments exposed to extreme heat or cold.
Optical Clarity:
Optical clarity pertains to the transparency and visual quality of safety glass. It is assessed by measuring the light transmission percentage, which must be high to ensure adequate visibility. Most safety glasses, such as laminated glass, maintain a light transmission rate exceeding 90%. High optical clarity is essential in applications like building facades and skylights, where visual aesthetics and safety are priorities.
Chemical Resistance:
Chemical resistance indicates how well safety glass can withstand exposure to various chemicals without degrading. Safety glass must resist damage from common cleaning agents, industrial chemicals, and environmental factors like humidity. According to studies conducted by glass manufacturers, laminated glass shows superior chemical resistance, especially in commercial and industrial settings where chemical exposure is prevalent.
Sound Insulation:
Sound insulation is a measure of the glass’s ability to reduce sound transmission. This rating becomes important in urban environments where noise pollution can affect indoor comfort. According to the American Architectural Manufacturers Association, laminated safety glass can significantly reduce noise levels, with some products achieving a Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating of up to 50. This feature is beneficial in residential buildings, offices, and hotels situated in noisy areas.

In summary, these performance ratings assigned to safety glass ensure that each type is suitable for specific applications, balancing safety, functionality, and aesthetic appeal.

What Industry Standards Govern Safety Glass Window Specifications?

The safety glass window specifications are governed by several industry standards that ensure their performance and safety.

ANSI Z97.1 – Safety Glazing Material Used in Buildings
CPSC 16 CFR Part 1201 – Safety Standard for Architectural Glazing Materials
ASTM C1036 – Standard Specification for Flat Glass
ASTM C1048 – Standard Specification for Heat-Treated Flat Glass
EN 12150 – Glass in Building – Thermally Toughened Soda Lime Silicate Safety Glass

These standards provide guidelines and regulations designed to protect individuals from glass-related injuries and to ensure the durability of glass products.

In examining these standards, it is important to understand their specific applications and the differences among them.

ANSI Z97.1:
ANSI Z97.1 establishes safety performance requirements for glazing materials used in buildings. This standard provides criteria for impact resistance, which is crucial for ensuring that glass can withstand various forces without breaking. To be compliant, glass tested under this standard must meet specific thresholds for strength and resistance to shattering.
CPSC 16 CFR Part 1201:
CPSC 16 CFR Part 1201 is a federal regulation that outlines safety standards for architectural glazing materials. It mandates specific testing procedures to evaluate the strength, fragmentation behavior, and safety aspects of glass when broken. This is particularly relevant in preventing injuries from glass shards.
ASTM C1036:
ASTM C1036 sets the specifications for flat glass. This standard covers various attributes, such as thickness, surface quality, and available colors. It assures consumers that the flat glass used in windows meets industry requirements for durability and optical quality.
ASTM C1048:
ASTM C1048 deals with heat-treated flat glass, which is essential for applications requiring enhanced strength and thermal resistance. This standard outlines the processes for tempering glass, ensuring it meets safety requirements under stress and temperature changes. Glass treated under this standard exhibits improved resistance to breakage.
EN 12150:
EN 12150 pertains to thermally toughened soda lime silicate safety glass. This European standard specifies performance requirements, including handling and installation considerations. Through rigorous testing and assessment, it aims to prevent breakage and minimize hazards from shattered glass.

These standards serve as benchmarks in the industry. They help manufacturers create products that not only comply with safety regulations but also protect end-users effectively.

How Do ASTM Standards Affect Safety Glass Choices?

ASTM standards significantly influence safety glass choices by ensuring that materials meet specific performance criteria for impact resistance, thermal stability, and other safety metrics. These standards guide manufacturers and consumers in selecting the appropriate products for various applications.

ASTM, or the American Society for Testing and Materials, develops and publishes technical standards that detail the performance requirements for safety glass, which can affect its selection. Here are key aspects of how ASTM standards influence safety glass choices:

Impact Resistance: ASTM standards specify tests for impact strength, such as ASTM E1996. This standard requires glass to withstand impacts from specific projectiles at designated velocities. Compliance with this standard ensures that safety glass can protect against accidental impacts and potential breakage.
Thermal Stability: ASTM standards address thermal properties, including resistance to thermal stress and thermal cycling. For instance, ASTM C1048 outlines requirements for heat-treated glass, ensuring it can withstand temperature fluctuations without breaking. This is essential for applications subjected to varying environmental conditions.
Safety Performance: Standards such as ASTM CPSC 16 CFR 1201 determine the safety performance of glass in terms of resistance to shattering and fragment production. Compliance with these standards is crucial for applications in homes, offices, and vehicles to prevent injury from broken glass.
Durability and Weathering: ASTM standards also focus on the long-term durability of safety glass when exposed to various environmental factors. ASTM E330 evaluates the performance of glass in wind pressure systems, ensuring longevity against harsh weather conditions.
Building Code Compliance: Many local and national building codes reference ASTM standards for safety glass. By complying with these standards, manufacturers ensure that their products are permissible for construction projects and meet legal safety requirements.
Consumer Confidence: Adherence to ASTM standards enhances consumer trust. Buyers prefer products that have been tested and certified against rigorous industry standards for safety and performance.

In summary, ASTM standards create a framework that assures quality and safety in the selection of safety glass. By meeting these specifications, safety glass products provide adequate protection against impacts and environmental stressors, ensuring their reliability in various settings.

What Role Do Building Codes Play in Safety Glass Specifications?

Building codes play a crucial role in determining the specifications for safety glass used in construction. They establish the minimum standards to ensure public safety and protect property.

Establish Minimum Safety Standards
Define Types of Safety Glass
Regulate Installation Methods
Specify Testing Requirements
Influence Design Choices
Evolve based on Technological Advancements

Building codes establish minimum safety standards for safety glass. These codes are designed to ensure that glass used in buildings can withstand impacts, resist breaking, and protect occupants from injury. For example, the International Building Code (IBC) stipulates criteria for tempered and laminated glass in areas subjected to human impact, thus prioritizing safety in architectural design.

Building codes define types of safety glass. Two common types are tempered glass and laminated glass. Tempered glass is treated with heat to increase its strength. When broken, it shatters into small, less harmful pieces. Laminated glass consists of two or more layers of glass bonded with an interlayer, thus preventing shattering and maintaining structural integrity. The choice of glass type often reflects both safety requirements and design preferences.

Building codes regulate installation methods for safety glass. Proper installation is critical for ensuring that the glass performs as intended. Codes provide guidelines on how to securely fasten glass in frames, thereby preventing potential hazards related to improper installation. This regulation helps maintain building safety in diverse weather conditions, ensuring longevity and structural integrity.

Building codes specify testing requirements for safety glass. Glass must undergo specific tests to verify strength, durability, and impact resistance. According to the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), standards such as ASTM C1048 and ASTM E1300 define the testing processes for tempered and laminated glass. Testing assures compliance with safety requirements.

Building codes influence design choices regarding safety glass. Architects and designers must consider code requirements when selecting glass types and dimensions. These design choices can impact the aesthetics of a building while ensuring compliance with legal safety standards. Balancing safety with aesthetic value is a common challenge in architectural design.

Building codes evolve based on technological advancements. As new materials and technologies emerge, codes are updated to incorporate advancements in safety glass performance. For instance, innovative glass coatings and improved manufacturing techniques can enhance safety features, leading to updated building codes that reflect these developments. Regular updates ensure that safety standards remain relevant in a changing construction landscape.

What Factors Should You Consider When Selecting Safety Glass for Your Project?

When selecting safety glass for your project, consider the type of glass, its thickness, impact resistance, thermal stability, and available certifications.

Type of Glass
Thickness
Impact Resistance
Thermal Stability
Certifications

Considering these factors is essential, as they can greatly influence the effectiveness and safety of the glass in your specific application.

Type of Glass: The type of glass refers to the specific kind of safety glass you choose. Options include tempered glass, laminated glass, and polycarbonate. Tempered glass is heat-treated to withstand force and is less likely to shatter. Laminated glass consists of two or more layers bonded with a polyvinyl butyral (PVB) layer, which holds the glass together upon breakage. Polycarbonate is a durable plastic often used in security applications. A study by the American Glass Association in 2020 highlighted that tempered glass is five to six times stronger than standard glass.
Thickness: The thickness of safety glass is critical for structural integrity. Thicker glass provides greater resistance to shattering and can reduce the risk of injury in case of impact. Common thicknesses are typically between 1/4 inch and 1 inch. For example, a project like a storefront may require 1/2 inch tempered glass to withstand environmental stressors.
Impact Resistance: The impact resistance of safety glass indicates its ability to absorb energy without breaking. This characteristic is essential for applications prone to accidental impacts or vandalism. Impact-resistant glass meets specific standards such as ANSI Z97.1 or CPSC 16 CFR 1201. Independent testing labs such as Intertek provide certifications verifying compliance to ensure safety.
Thermal Stability: The thermal stability of safety glass is an important factor when considering fluctuating temperatures. Thermal stress can cause glass to warping or break. Glass designed with low expansion properties can withstand temperature variations. Research by the Glass Association of North America in 2019 showed that laminated glass performed better under extreme temperature changes compared to other types.
Certifications: The certifications obtained by safety glass manufacturers guarantee that their products meet industry safety standards. Look for certifications such as ASTM, ANSI, and ISO. These certifications ensure that the glass has been tested for durability, impact resistance, and thermal stability. For instance, a laminated glass product certified to ASTM C1172 demonstrates its capability to perform well in high-stress environments.

How Does Impact Resistance Affect Your Decision on Safety Glass?

Impact resistance significantly affects your decision on safety glass. This property determines how well the glass can withstand forceful impacts without breaking. If a glass is highly impact-resistant, it is less likely to shatter when struck by objects. This feature is crucial in safety applications, such as in areas with a risk of flying debris or vandalism.

When evaluating safety glass, consider the following steps:

Assess the environment: Determine where the glass will be installed. Areas prone to impact risks require higher impact resistance.
Review ratings: Look for established standards, such as ANSI Z97.1 or ASTM F3039. These ratings inform you of the glass’s performance against impacts.
Consider material: Different types of safety glass, such as tempered or laminated glass, offer varying degrees of impact resistance. Tempered glass is stronger but may shatter, while laminated glass holds together even when cracked.
Evaluate your needs: Decide on the level of safety you require based on potential hazards. High-impact environments usually necessitate more robust glass.
Consult experts: Seek advice from professionals in the glass industry to ensure informed choices.

By understanding impact resistance, you can make a more informed decision about which safety glass to choose for your specific requirements.

Why is Thermal Performance Important When Choosing Safety Glass?

Thermal performance is crucial when choosing safety glass because it significantly impacts energy efficiency, comfort, and safety in buildings. High thermal performance helps maintain stable indoor temperatures, reduces heating and cooling costs, and ensures the safety of occupants during extreme temperature changes.

According to the National Glass Association, thermal performance refers to the capacity of materials to resist heat transfer and maintain temperature under varying conditions. This property is essential in evaluating the effectiveness of safety glass in insulating buildings.

The importance of thermal performance can be broken down into three main reasons:

Energy Efficiency: Good thermal performance reduces energy consumption. Buildings with efficient insulation keep temperatures stable and minimize the need for heating and cooling systems.
Comfort: Proper thermal insulation ensures indoor spaces are comfortable regardless of outdoor weather conditions. Poor thermal performance can lead to drafts or temperature fluctuations.
Safety: In extreme thermal conditions, such as heat waves or sudden cold snaps, glass can expand or contract. Safety glass with high thermal performance resists breakage due to thermal stress, enhancing safety.

Technical terms related to thermal performance include “thermal conductivity” and “U-factor.” Thermal conductivity measures how easily heat passes through a material. The U-factor measures the rate of heat transfer and indicates insulation effectiveness. Lower values indicate better thermal performance.

The mechanisms behind thermal performance involve heat transfer processes: conduction, convection, and radiation. Safety glass with special coatings or double-glazing (two panes of glass with an air gap) can reduce heat transfer. This design minimizes energy loss in winter and heat gain in summer.

Specific contributing conditions include climate, building orientation, and window placement. For instance, in sunny climates, using low-emissivity (Low-E) glass can reduce heat gain while still allowing natural light. In colder regions, triple glazing may be necessary for optimal thermal performance and comfort.

In summary, thermal performance is essential for energy efficiency, occupant comfort, and safety in choosing safety glass. Understanding terms and mechanisms associated with thermal performance helps in making informed decisions about glass products.

How Can You Ensure Compliance with Safety Glass Specifications in Your Plans?

To ensure compliance with safety glass specifications in your plans, it is essential to follow relevant standards, validate material properties, collaborate with certified suppliers, and perform rigorous testing.

Follow relevant standards: Adhere to industry standards set by organizations like the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the National Glass Association (NGA). These standards define the performance criteria for safety glass, such as impact resistance and transmittance. Compliance ensures that your glass meets safety requirements for various applications.
Validate material properties: It is crucial to confirm that the glass selected meets the mechanical and optical properties required for its intended use. Checking properties such as thickness, strength, and clarity ensures that the glass will perform adequately under expected conditions. Failure to validate can result in unsafe installations.
Collaborate with certified suppliers: Partnering with suppliers that provide certified safety glass can enhance compliance. Certified suppliers ensure that their products meet industry specifications. This can save time and resources in the verification process.
Perform rigorous testing: Conducting tests on the glass under specified conditions is vital. Tests can include stress tests to measure impact resistance and durability. According to a study by Smith and Ramirez (2020), rigorous testing of safety glass significantly reduces failure rates in actual use.

These measures are vital in ensuring that safety glass meets regulatory requirements and performs effectively in its application, ultimately protecting users and reducing liability.

What Best Practices Can Help You Effectively Read and Interpret Safety Glass Specifications?

The best practices for effectively reading and interpreting safety glass specifications include understanding relevant standards, recognizing different glass types, checking safety ratings, and identifying application requirements.

Understand relevant standards
Recognize different glass types
Check safety ratings
Identify application requirements

To navigate these practices efficiently, it is important to delve deeper into each aspect.

Understanding Relevant Standards: Understanding relevant standards is essential when reading safety glass specifications. Standards like ANSI Z97.1 and ASTM C1048 set benchmarks for performance and safety. Familiarizing yourself with these standards ensures compliance and can provide a foundation for evaluating quality. Research by Smith et al. (2019) indicates that adherence to established standards mitigates risks associated with glass failure.
Recognizing Different Glass Types: Recognizing different glass types enhances the interpretation of specifications. Common glass types include laminated, tempered, and annealed glass. Each type has unique attributes, such as heat resistance and impact strength, which affect its performance in specific environments. For instance, laminated glass offers enhanced safety by holding together when shattered, which is beneficial in areas prone to break-ins (Miller, 2021).
Checking Safety Ratings: Checking safety ratings is crucial for ensuring that the safety glass meets necessary thresholds. Look for certifications from testing bodies that provide ratings for shatter resistance and impact resistance. A study by the Glass Association (2020) highlighted that safety-rated glass significantly reduces injury in the event of accidents, emphasizing the importance of these checks.
Identifying Application Requirements: Identifying application requirements is vital when selecting safety glass for specific settings. Depending on usage, requirements may vary; for example, glass used in high-traffic commercial spaces may require different specifications than residential windows. According to the Architectural Institute of America (2018), proper application ensures the glass performs adequately under designated conditions.

By following these best practices, one can effectively read and interpret safety glass specifications to enhance safety and compliance in various applications.

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How to Read Safety Glass Window Specifications on Plans: A Guide to Performance and Standards