What type of glazing is required near bathing and swimming areas if below 60 inches horizontally from water?

The requirement for safety glazing near bathing and swimming areas is rooted in the need to prevent injuries due to falls or accidental impact with the glass. Safety glazing includes materials specifically designed to minimize the risk of injury, such as tempered glass or laminated glass, which are less likely to break into sharp shards.

In areas where there is a higher likelihood of accidental contact with glass, such as around pools, hot tubs, or other bathing zones, building codes mandate the use of safety glazing to ensure the safety of all users, particularly children. While tempered glass is a type of safety glazing, the broader term encompasses various safety standards that apply.

Choosing safety glazing over other types is crucial in ensuring a safer environment around water, where slip-and-fall accidents may occur due to wet surfaces. Decorative or frosted glazing does not provide the same level of impact resistance or safety features that are necessary in these specific locations near bodies of water.