Massachusetts Building Code for Glass Railing

All construction projects, including new and renovation, are governed by the Massachusetts Building Code. This code has a state-wide application and ensures the functional and safe use of indoor and outdoor spaces.

Furthermore, this guideline covers glass railing design and installation, which primarily include glass panel specification and railing height requirements. It also provides requirements for using glass railing systems for pool enclosures.

Therefore, this article provides an overview of the Massachusetts Building Code and critical safety regulations for the safe deployment of frameless glass railings. Read to the very end to learn more.

What is the Massachusetts Building Code

The Massachusetts Building Code is the state-wide building safety compliance guideline for construction and installation. It is formally referred to as the Massachusetts Building Code, 10^th edition, and it is based on the 2021 International Building Code (IBC) with unique amendments.

Nonetheless, the Massachusetts Building Code, 9^th edition, is in force concurrently with the 10^th edition until June 30^th, 2025. After this date, all construction and installation work must conform with the 10^th edition of the state’s building code.

The Board of Building Regulations and Standards (BBRS) is responsible for adopting IBC amendments specific to Massachusetts. As new technology and information emerge, this eleven-member board makes periodic updates to the state's code.

Frameless Glass Railing Overview

Frameless glass railings are a special class of glass railing systems. These guardrails have more glass panels and a less visible support structure, allowing for sleek and transparent barriers across different platforms.

Similar to traditional guardrails, frameless glass railings are used to cover the open sides of elevated platforms, which include mezzanines, balconies, stairways, terraces, decks, patios, and similar spaces. When properly designed and installed, these railings are as safe as conventional guardrails, offering enhanced aesthetics.

Based on the building code safety regulations, these glass railings must adhere to specific guidelines as highlighted below.

• The opensides of raised platforms must be protected with frameless glass railings or conventional guardrails when elevated more than 762 mm (30 inches) above adjacent walking areas.
• Guardrails must not have openings and must not be 100 mm (4 inches) in diameter. However, wider openings may be accommodated in special cases like industrial occupancies.

Glass Railing System Requirements

Framed and frameless glass railings must meet the minimum glass railing requirements specified by the Massachusetts Building Code safety regulations. As such, glass guardrails must comply with glass panel specifications and railing height requirements when deployed across Massachusetts.

Furthermore, pool enclosures with frameless glass railings must comply with the state's safety code. Failure to adhere to these building safety compliance guidelines may lead to fines or legal action.

Glass Panel Specifications

Glass panels used in frameless glass railings must be capable of withstanding a minimum level of pressure or force. Therefore, the normal safety glazing is unsuitable for glass deck railings as it can easily break when exposed to high wind speeds or impact user activity.

To ensure user safety, the glass panel used for frameless glass railings must comply with the following specifications.

• Glass panels used for frameless glass railings should be fully tempered or heat-strengthened glazing. It should also conform with Category II of CPSC 16 CFR Part 1201 or Class A of ANSI Z97.1 standard.
• Beneath locations where falling glass cannot harm users, single-tempered glass panels complying with the earlier-mentioned safety regulations can be used.
• The minimum allowable thickness for glazing used for frameless glass railings is 12 mm (0.5 inches).
• Glass panels must not have dents, cracks, or other visible physical defects.

Glazing can be of any tint, color, or shade if it conforms with these glass panel compliance guidelines.

Railing Height Requirements

Railing height is an essential requirement for framed and frameless glass railings as stipulated in the Massachusetts Building Code. This regulation ensures safe access to most elevated platforms, providing support and preventing users from falling over.

The basic frameless glass railing height requirements include the following.

• Frameless glass railings used in residential, commercial, and public buildings should be at least 1067 mm (42 inches) high.
• Glass railings used in groups R-2 and R-3 dwelling types can have guardrails that are 914 mm (36 inches) high.

Frameless Pool Fencing

Pools, bathtubs, and spas must be enclosed with traditional or glass railing systems. This safety measure ensures unauthorized individuals do not access swimming areas.

Similarly, it prevents unsupervised children from accessing pools, which minimizes the likelihood of accidental drowning.

Here are the essential pool fencing requirements to consider.

• Pool fencing made of frameless glass railings should have a minimum height of 1219 mm (48 inches).
• Building sections and walls can form part of the pool enclosure if doors and windows remain closed. In addition, appropriate alarm systems should be in place.
• Gates leading into swimming areas should have self-closing and self-latching devices.
• The minimum allowable opening for these guardrails is 100 mm (4 inches).
• Since safety is paramount around swimming areas, glass panels should have a minimum thickness of 12 mm (0.6 inches).

Safety and Maintenance Measures for Frameless Glass Railings

Frameless glass railings are safe and have a long lifespan. However, safety and maintenance measures must be taken to maintain functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Here are some essential safety measures to consider.

• Fully tempered or laminated glass must be used for framed and frameless glass railings. Using either glass panel type increases the railing system's impact resistance and minimizes the likelihood of injury when glazing breaks.
• When glazing that conforms with Category II of CPSC 16 CFR Part 1201 or Class A of ANSI Z97.1 standard is used, guardrails are able to accommodate all kinds of loads and foot traffic.
• Glass panels, mounting systems, and other hardware must be properly installed. As such, hiring a licensed installer should be a priority if you want to ensure user safety.
• The corners and edges of glass panels should be polished or rounded to minimize injury. Alternatively, edge protection or protective coatings should be used to enhance user safety.

The Massachusetts Building Code encourages regular maintenance as highlighted below.

• Do not use harsh chemical solutions capable of scratching or damaging glass panels. Instead, a mild cleaning solution with an appropriate cloth should be used to clean glazing surfaces.
• There should be appropriate ventilation and drainage around frameless glass railing installations. Having stagnant water may lead to damage due to rust or corrosion.
• Periodic inspection should be carried out to ensure glass panels, brackets, anchors, and hardware are structurally sound. When a defect or problem is identified, prompt action should be taken to ensure user safety.

Conclusion

The Massachusetts Building Code is a critical safety regulation for construction work. It is based on the IBC safety regulations, ensuring functional and safe access to indoor and outdoor building spaces.

This code also provides essential glass railing requirements, allowing for the safe deployment of frameless glass systems on the opensides of elevated platforms. In particular, it gives detailed guardrail safety requirements, including glass panel specifications and railing height requirements.

This code highlights essential pool enclosure requirements, ensuring user safety. Furthermore, it encourages adherence to safety and maintenance measures, which help extend the lifespan of glass railing systems.

FAQs for Massachusetts Building Code for Glass Railing

What is the building code for railings in Massachusetts?

Elevated platforms like balconies, patios, or stairways raised higher than 762 mm (30 inches) must have guardrails. Likewise, the standard height for railings is 1067 mm (42 inches) with a minimum opening requirement of 100 mm (4 inches) in diameter.

What is the thickness code for glass railings?

The thickness of glass panels used in railings should be at least 12 mm (0.6 inches).

Can I use any glass for railings?

Only fully tempered or laminated glass can be used for framed and frameless glass railings.