EN 356 Safety Glass Grade Selection Guide

Interpretation of Core Standards

EN 356 evaluates the safety grade of glass through two types of tests:

  1. Impact test: simulates blunt impact (such as hammer)
  2. Penetration test: detects the penetration ability of tools (such as electric drill)

There are 8 grades in total, P1A-P8A, and the larger the number, the stronger the protection.

Three-step selection method

  1. Risk classification

– Low risk (P1A-P3A): ordinary residential/office area

– Medium risk (P4A-P5A): convenience store/community bank

– High risk (P6A-P8A): jewelry store/government facility

  1. Key parameters

Delay time: P6A can provide ≥20 minutes security response time

Tool resistance: high level can protect against electric drill/cutting machine, low level can only protect against blunt tools

  1. Comprehensive consideration

Light transmission balance: high safety glass light transmittance slightly reduced

Cost optimization: P6A+ cost increases, it is recommended to upgrade key areas (such as P7A for core display cabinets in museums, P5A for other areas)

Typical scenario solutions

ScenarioNeedRecommended Solution
Bank WindowAnti-violence impact + visual monitoringP5A glass + EN 1063 bulletproof layer
Museum showcaseTool-proof + UV-blockingP7A glass + UV laminated film

Frequently Asked Questions

❓Must I choose the highest level?

→ Match according to actual risk to avoid over-investment

❓Can other functions be combined?

→ Supports superposition with fire protection (EN 357) and bulletproof (EN 1063)

❓How to verify compliance?

→ Require suppliers to provide third-party test reports

Core Principles

Match risk levels, balance safety and cost, and dynamically upgrade protection solutions.