With the rise in popularity of things like glass pool fencing and glass barriers, it’s becoming increasingly important to think carefully about the types of glass we’re using to build things. Safety standards surround the use of glass as a building material in Australia, but these aren’t always followed.
However, in the interest of safety, you should always do your best to ensure you’re following the relevant rules regarding pool fencing, especially when dealing with glass pool fencing.
One of the essential Australian standard rules states that only safety glass can be used for building purposes – including for a glass pool fence and balustrade. With this in mind, let’s have a quick look at what safety glass is and why it’s so important to use it:
What is safety glass?
Safety glass is any form made more robust to endure tougher environmental conditions. The laws about what sort of safety glass you can use to build a pool fence vary between states, so it’s essential to read the relevant laws and regulations.
The most common type of safety glass for use in pool fences is toughened (tempered) glass. This glass is solid and can withstand any forces and impacts it could receive during everyday residential life.
What are the benefits of using safety glasses?
As noted above, you are required by law to use safety glass when you’re building a new pool fence. However, if you need more convincing, here are a few reasons why you should always use it:
- Safety glass is solid and durable, which won’t break under normal environmental and residential conditions.
- Safety glass is resistant to changes in temperature, making it perfect for use in outdoor areas.
- Safety glass is easy to fix into position, which makes it the perfect material for pool fences and railings.
As you can see, plenty of benefits are associated with using safety glass, which is why you have to use it under Australian law.
Why should I always make sure I’m using safety glass for my pool fence?
If, for some reason, you’re still not convinced that you need to use safety glass to build your pool fence, then consider the following:
- Safety glass is firm, which means that your children and pets won’t be able to break through it. If they could, they would risk injury to themselves and others around them.
- Again, if your pets or children could break through your glass pool fence, they would be at risk of drowning. Safety glass prevents this.
- Safety glass is smooth and slippery, so it can’t be easily climbed – further securing your pool area.
Final word
As you can see, it’s essential to make sure that you use safety glass when you’re building your new glass pool fence. Check your local safety regulations to find out precisely what sort of glass you’re allowed to use, and make sure you’re following them so that you’re not penalised by your local authorities.