Overview of IS 10817: Code of Practice for Glazing in Buildings

IS 10817: Code of Practice for Glazing in Buildings is an essential standard developed by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), which provides detailed guidelines for the installation of glass and glazing systems in construction. This standard ensures that glazing systems, which are a crucial component in modern building design, meet safety, aesthetic, and performance requirements. Glazing, typically used in windows, facades, and other openings, plays a significant role in the structural integrity, energy efficiency, and visual appeal of buildings.

The primary purpose of IS 10817 is to define the standards for the types of glass, framing systems, sealing materials, and installation methods that should be followed to ensure that glazing systems are both functional and safe. It covers various factors, including load-bearing capacity, thermal performance, moisture resistance, and fire safety, ensuring that glazing systems are durable and able to withstand environmental and structural stresses.

Key Features of IS 10817

1. Glass Selection:

   • IS 10817 outlines the types of glass that can be used in buildings, including safety glass, tinted glass, reflective glass, and insulated glass units (IGUs), ensuring each type meets performance criteria for safety and thermal efficiency.

2. Installation Guidelines:

   • The standard specifies the installation techniques for glazing systems, detailing how glass should be framed, supported, and sealed to prevent issues such as water infiltration, air leakage, and structural damage.

3. Performance Requirements:

   • IS 10817 provides guidelines on the structural integrity of glass and glazing systems, considering factors like wind pressure, impact resistance, and thermal expansion to ensure that glazing remains intact over time.

4. Safety Measures:

   • The standard includes recommendations for ensuring the safety of glazing installations, such as impact resistance for safety glazing in areas prone to human contact and fire resistance in case of emergencies.

Benefits of IS 10817

1. Improved Safety:

   • Following IS 10817 ensures that glass and glazing systems are installed to prevent risks such as breakage, sharp edges, and falling debris, protecting building occupants and passersby.

2. Enhanced Durability:

   • By specifying the correct materials and installation techniques, IS 10817 helps ensure that glazing systems are long-lasting, resistant to weather conditions, and able to withstand the test of time.

3. Increased Energy Efficiency:

   • IS 10817 encourages the use of energy-efficient glazing materials, such as insulated glass, which improves a building’s thermal performance and reduces energy consumption for heating and cooling.

4. Compliance with Safety Regulations:

   • Adhering to IS 10817 ensures that glazing installations comply with national and international building codes and safety regulations, ensuring safe and code-compliant buildings.

5. Aesthetic and Functional Design:

   • The standard enables the integration of modern glazing technologies into building designs, allowing for visually appealing, light-filled spaces while meeting safety and performance requirements.

Applications of IS 10817

1. Residential Buildings:

   • Ensuring safe and functional glazing systems in windows, balustrades, and facades, enhancing the comfort and aesthetic appeal of homes and apartments.

2. Commercial Buildings:

   • IS 10817 is essential for designing glazed facades, office buildings, and shops, where large glass surfaces are often used for aesthetic purposes, natural lighting, and energy efficiency.

3. Public Infrastructure:

   • The standard applies to airport terminals, train stations, and shopping malls, where the safety and performance of glazing systems are critical due to the high foot traffic and large glass surfaces.

4. High-Rise Buildings:

   • IS 10817 is particularly important for the design and installation of glazing systems in high-rise buildings, ensuring wind resistance, structural integrity, and safety for high-altitude windows and facades.

IS 10817: Code of Practice for Glazing in Buildings is a vital standard for ensuring the safety, durability, and performance of glass and glazing systems in construction. By specifying guidelines for material selection, installation techniques, and performance requirements, it ensures that glazing systems contribute to the overall structural integrity and energy efficiency of buildings while maintaining aesthetic appeal. Whether used in residential, commercial, or infrastructure projects, IS 10817 plays a crucial role in creating buildings that are both safe and visually striking, with glazing systems that stand the test of time.

Thu Jan 23, 2025