Security glazing in Chepstow

Replacing glass in an existing frame

Welsh Government guidance says building regulations have applied to replacement glazing since 1 April 2002, which covers replacing windows and doors. Swapping only the glass or a sealed unit in an existing frame is generally treated as a repair. New glass in a critical location should still be safety glass, and the council's building control team can confirm anything unclear.

Glazing in workplaces

Regulation 14 of the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 applies in Wales. Windows and transparent surfaces in walls, partitions, doors and gates must be of safety material or protected against breakage where health or safety requires it, and marked so they are apparent. The employer's risk assessment decides where that applies.

Safety glass in critical locations

In Wales, safety glazing is covered by Approved Document N (glazing) under the Welsh Building Regulations rather than Approved Document K. Glass in doors up to 1,500 mm above the floor, in panes within 300 mm of a door up to 1,500 mm, and in other glazing below 800 mm should be safety glass or protected. Laminated and toughened glass are the usual choices.