780 CMR 24.

00
GLASS AND GLAZING

780 CMR 2401.0 GENERAL 2403.2 Glass Supports. Where one or more sides of
2401.1 Scope. The provisions of 780 CMR 24.00 any pane of glass are not firmly supported, or are
shall govern the materials, design, construction and subjected to unusual load conditions, detailed
quality of glass, light-transmitting ceramic and light- construction documents, detailed shop drawings and
transmitting plastic panels for exterior and interior analysis or test data assuring safe performance for
use in both vertical and sloped applications in the specific installation shall be prepared by a
buildings and structures. registered design professional.
Note: For Fire Fighter protection, additional 2403.3 Framing. To be considered firmly
skylight live load requirements or barrier supported, the framing members for each individual
protection are set forth in 527 CMR. pane of glass shall be designed so the deflection of
2401.2 Glazing Replacement. The installation of the edge of the glass perpendicular to the glass pane
replacement glass shall be as required for new shall not exceed 1/175 of the glass edge length or ¾
installations. inch (19.1 mm), whichever is less, when subjected to
the larger of the positive or negative load where
780 CMR 2402.0 DEFINITIONS loads are combined as specified in 780 CMR 1605.0.
2402.1 Definitions. The following words and terms 2403.4 Interior Glazed Areas. Where interior
shall, for the purposes of 780 CMR 24.00 and as glazing is installed adjacent to a walking surface, the
used elsewhere in 780 CMR, have the meanings differential deflection of two adjacent unsupported
shown in 780 CMR 2402.0. edges shall not be greater than the thickness of the
panels when a force of 50 pounds per linear foot
DALLE GLASS. A decorative composite glazing (plf) (730 N/m) is applied horizontally to one panel
material made of individual pieces of glass that are at any point up to 42 inches (1067 mm) above the
embedded in a cast matrix of concrete or epoxy. walking surface.
DECORATIVE GLASS. A carved, leaded or Dalle 2403.5 Louvered Windows or Jalousies. Float,
glass or glazing material whose purpose is decorative wired and patterned glass in louvered windows and
or artistic, not functional; whose coloring, texture or jalousies shall be no thinner than nominal 3/16 inch
other design qualities or components cannot be (4.8 mm) and no longer than 48 inches (1219 mm).
removed without destroying the glazing material and Exposed glass edges shall be smooth.
whose surface, or assembly into which it is Wired glass with wire exposed on longitudinal
incorporated, is divided into segments. edges shall not be used in louvered windows or
jalousies.
780 CMR 2403.0 GENERAL Where other glass types are used, the design shall
REQUIREMENTS FOR GLASS be submitted to the building official for approval.
2403.1 Identification. Each pane shall bear the
manufacturer’s label designating the type and 780 CMR 2404.0 WIND, SNOW, SEISMIC
thickness of the glass or glazing material. The AND DEAD LOADS ON GLASS
identification shall not be omitted unless approved
and an affidavit is furnished by the glazing 2404.1 Vertical Glass. Glass sloped 15 degrees
contractor certifying that each light is glazed in (0.26 rad) or less from vertical in windows, curtain
accordance with approved construction documents and window walls, doors and other exterior
that comply with the provisions of 780 CMR 24.00. applications shall be designed to resist the wind
Safety glazing shall be identified in accordance with loads in 780 CMR 1609.0 for components and
780 CMR 2406.2. cladding. Glass in glazed curtain walls, glazed
Each pane of tempered glass, except tempered storefronts and glazed partitions shall meet the
spandrel glass, shall be permanently identified by the seismic requirements of ASCE 7, Section 9.6.2.10.
manufacturer. The identification label shall be acid Glazing firmly supported on all four edges is
etched, sand blasted, ceramic fired, embossed or permitted to be designed by the following
shall be of a type that once applied cannot be provisions. Where the glass is not firmly supported
removed without being destroyed. on all four edges, analysis or test data ensuring safe
Tempered spandrel glass shall be provided with a performance for the specific installation shall be
removable paper marking by the manufacturer. prepared by a registered design professional.

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 780 CMR: STATE BOARD OF BUILDING REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS
THE MASSACHUSETTS STATE BUILDING CODE

The design of vertical glazing shall be based on

2404.2 Sloped Glass. Glass sloped more than 15
the following equation:
degrees (0.26 rad) from vertical in skylights,
sunrooms, sloped roofs and other exterior
EQUATION 24-1
applications shall be designed to resist the most
Fgw _ Fga critical of the following combinations of loads.
where:
EQUATION 24-3
Fgw is the wind load on the glass computed in
accordance with 780 CMR 1609 and Fga is the Fg = Wo – D
maximum allowable load on the glass computed EQUATION 24-4
by the following Equation:
Fg = Wi + D + 0.5 S
EQUATION 24-2
EQUATION 24-5
Fga = c1 Fge
Fg = 0.5 Wi + D + S
where:
where:
Fge = Maximum allowable equivalent load,
pounds per square foot (psf) (kN/m2) determined D = Glass dead load (psf) For glass sloped 30
from Figures 2404(1) through 2404(12) for the degrees (0.52 rad) or less from horizontal,
applicable glass dimensions and thickness. D = 13 tg (For SI: 0.0245 tg) For glass sloped
c1 = Factor determined from Table 2404.1 based more than 30 degrees (0.52 rad) from horizontal,
on glass type. D = 13 tg cos q (For SI: 0.0245 tg cos q).
Fg = Total load, psf (kN/m2) on glass.
TABLE 2404.1 C1 FACTORS FOR S = Snow load, psf (kN/m2) as determined in
VERTICAL AND SLOPED GLASS 780 CMR 1608.
GLASS TYPE FACTOR tg = Total glass thickness, inches (mm) of glass
panes and plies.
Single Glass
Wi = Inward wind force, psf (kN/m2) as
Regular (annealed) 1 calculated in 780 CMR 1609.
Heat strengthened 2
Wo = Outward wind force, psf (kN/m2) as
Fully tempered 4 calculated in 780 CMR 1609.
Wired 0.5 q = Angle of slope from horizontal.
Patternedc 1
Sandblasted d
0.5 Exception. Unit skylights shall be designed in
Laminated—regular pliese 0.7/0.90f accordance with 780 CMR 2405.5.
Laminated—heat-strengthened pliese 1.5/1 .8f The design of sloped glazing shall be based on the
Laminated—fully tempered pliese 3.0/3.6f following equation:
Insulating Glassb EQUATION 24-6
Regular (annealed) 1.8
Heat strengthened 3.6 Fg _ Fga
Fully tempered 7.2 where Fg is the maximum load on the glass
Laminated—regular pliese
1.4/1 .6f determined from Equations 24-3 through 24-5, and
Laminated—heat-strengthened pliese
2.7/3.2f Fga is the maximum allowable load on the glass.
Laminated—fully tempered pliese 5.4/6.5f If Fg is determined by Equation 24-3 or 24-4
a. Either Table 2404.1 or 2404.2 shall be appropriate for above, Fga shall be computed as for vertical glazing
sloped glass depending on whether the snow or wind in 780 CMR 2404.1. If Fg is determined by
load is dominant (see 780 CMR 2404.2). For glass Equation 24-5 above, Fga shall be computed by the
types (vertical or sloped) not included in the tables, following equation:
refer to ASTM E 1300 for guidance.
b. Values apply for insulating glass with identical panes. EQUATION 24-7
c. The value for patterned glass is based on the thinnest Fga = c2 Fge
part of the pattern; interpolation between graphs is where:
permitted.
d. The value for sandblasted glass is for moderate levels Fge = Maximum allowable equivalent load (psf)
of sandblasting. determined from Figures 2404(1) through
e. Values for laminated glass are based on the total 2404(12) for the applicable glass dimensions and
thickness of the glass and apply for glass with two thickness.
equal glass ply thicknesses. c2 = Factor determined from Table 2404.2 based
f. The lower value applies if, for any laminated glass on glass type.
pane, either the ratio of the long to short dimension is
greater than 2.0 or the lesser dimension divided by the
thickness of the pane is 150 or less; the higher value
applies in all other cases.

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 780 CMR: STATE BOARD OF BUILDING REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS
GLASS AND GLAZING

TABLE 2404.2 C2 FACTORS FOR SLOPED a. Either Table 2404.1 or 2404.2 shall be appropriate for
GLASS sloped glass depending on whether the snow or wind
For use with Figures 2404(1) through 2404(12) load is dominant (see 780 CMR 2404.2). For glass
types (vertical or sloped) not included in the tables,
refer to ASTM E 1300 for guidance.
GLASS TYPE FACTOR
b. Values apply for insulating glass with identical panes.
Single Glass c. The value for patterned glass is based on the thinnest
Regular (annealed) 0.6 part of the pattern; interpolation between graphs is
Heat strengthened 1.6
permitted.
Fully tempered 3.6
W ired 0.3
d. Values for laminated glass are based on the total
Patterned c 0.6 thickness of the glass and apply for glass with two
Laminated — regular pliesd 0.3/0.45 e equal glass ply thicknesses.
Laminated — heat-strengthened plies d 0.8/1 .2 e e. The lower value applies where, for any laminated
Laminated — fully tempered plies d 1.8/2.7 e glass pane, either the ratio of the long to short
Insulating Glass b dimension is greater than 2.0 or the lesser dimension
Regular (annealed) 1.1 divided by the thickness of the pane is 150 or less.
Heat strengthened 2.9 The higher value applies in all other cases.
Fully tempered 6.5
Laminated — regular pliesd 0.54/0.81 e
Laminated — heat-strengthened plies d 1 .4/2.2 e
Laminated — fully tempered plies d 3.3/4.9e

FIGURE 2404(1)a, b, c, d, e, f MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE LOAD FOR VERTICAL AND

SLOPED RECTANGULAR GLASS SUPPORTED ON ALL EDGES

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot - 0.0479 kPa.
a. In each graph, the vertical axis is the lesser dimension
b. The diagonal number on each graph shows the equivalent design load in psf/
c. The dashed lines indicate glass that has deflection in excess of ¾ inch.
d. Interpolation between lines is permitted, Extrapolation Is not allowed.
e. For laminated glass, the applicable glass thickness is the total glass thickness.
f. For insulating glass panes, the applicable glass thickness is the thickness of one pane.

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 780 CMR: STATE BOARD OF BUILDING REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS
THE MASSACHUSETTS STATE BUILDING CODE

FIGURE 2404(2)a, b, c, d, e, f MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE LOAD FOR VERTICAL AND

SLOPED RECTANGULAR GLASS SUPPORTED ON ALL EDGES

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot - 0.0479 kPa.
a. In each graph, the vertical axis is the lesser dimension
b. The diagonal number on each graph shows the equivalent design load in psf/
c. The dashed lines indicate glass that has deflection in excess of ¾ inch.
d. Interpolation between lines is permitted, Extrapolation Is not allowed.
e. For laminated glass, the applicable glass thickness is the total glass thickness.
f. For insulating glass panes, the applicable glass thickness is the thickness of one pane.

FIGURE 2404(3)a, b, c, d, e, f MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE LOAD FOR VERTICAL AND

SLOPED RECTANGULAR GLASS SUPPORTED ON ALL EDGES

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot - 0.0479 kPa.
a. In each graph, the vertical axis is the lesser dimension
b. The diagonal number on each graph shows the equivalent design load in psf/
c. The dashed lines indicate glass that has deflection in excess of ¾ inch.
d. Interpolation between lines is permitted, Extrapolation Is not allowed.
e. For laminated glass, the applicable glass thickness is the total glass thickness.
f. For insulating glass panes, the applicable glass thickness is the thickness of one pane.

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 780 CMR: STATE BOARD OF BUILDING REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS
GLASS AND GLAZING

FIGURE 2404(4)a, b, c, d, e, f MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE LOAD FOR VERTICAL AND

SLOPED RECTANGULAR GLASS SUPPORTED ON ALL EDGES

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot - 0.0479 kPa.
a. In each graph, the vertical axis is the lesser dimension
b. The diagonal number on each graph shows the equivalent design load in psf/
c. The dashed lines indicate glass that has deflection in excess of ¾ inch.
d. Interpolation between lines is permitted, Extrapolation Is not allowed.
e. For laminated glass, the applicable glass thickness is the total glass thickness.
f. For insulating glass panes, the applicable glass thickness is the thickness of one pane.

FIGURE 2404(5)a, b, c, d, e, f MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE LOAD FOR VERTICAL AND

SLOPED RECTANGULAR GLASS SUPPORTED ON ALL EDGES

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot - 0.0479 kPa.
a. In each graph, the vertical axis is the lesser dimension
b. The diagonal number on each graph shows the equivalent design load in psf/
c. The dashed lines indicate glass that has deflection in excess of ¾ inch.
d. Interpolation between lines is permitted, Extrapolation Is not allowed.
e. For laminated glass, the applicable glass thickness is the total glass thickness.
f. For insulating glass panes, the applicable glass thickness is the thickness of one pane.

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 780 CMR: STATE BOARD OF BUILDING REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS
THE MASSACHUSETTS STATE BUILDING CODE

FIGURE 2404(6)a, b, c, d, e, f MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE LOAD FOR VERTICAL AND

SLOPED RECTANGULAR GLASS SUPPORTED ON ALL EDGES

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot - 0.0479 kPa.
a. In each graph, the vertical axis is the lesser dimension
b. The diagonal number on each graph shows the equivalent design load in psf/
c. The dashed lines indicate glass that has deflection in excess of ¾ inch.
d. Interpolation between lines is permitted, Extrapolation Is not allowed.
e. For laminated glass, the applicable glass thickness is the total glass thickness.
f. For insulating glass panes, the applicable glass thickness is the thickness of one pane.

FIGURE 2404(7)a, b, c, d, e, f MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE LOAD FOR VERTICAL AND

SLOPED RECTANGULAR GLASS SUPPORTED ON ALL EDGES

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot - 0.0479 kPa.
a. In each graph, the vertical axis is the lesser dimension
b. The diagonal number on each graph shows the equivalent design load in psf/
c. The dashed lines indicate glass that has deflection in excess of ¾ inch.
d. Interpolation between lines is permitted, Extrapolation Is not allowed.
e. For laminated glass, the applicable glass thickness is the total glass thickness.
f. For insulating glass panes, the applicable glass thickness is the thickness of one pane.

500.38 780 CMR - Seventh Edition 8/22/08 (Effective 9/1/08)

 780 CMR: STATE BOARD OF BUILDING REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS
GLASS AND GLAZING

FIGURE 2404(8)a, b, c, d, e, f MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE LOAD FOR VERTICAL AND

SLOPED RECTANGULAR GLASS SUPPORTED ON ALL EDGES

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot - 0.0479 kPa.
a. In each graph, the vertical axis is the lesser dimension
b. The diagonal number on each graph shows the equivalent design load in psf/
c. The dashed lines indicate glass that has deflection in excess of ¾ inch.
d. Interpolation between lines is permitted, Extrapolation Is not allowed.
e. For laminated glass, the applicable glass thickness is the total glass thickness.
f. For insulating glass panes, the applicable glass thickness is the thickness of one pane.

FIGURE 2404(9)a, b, c, d, e, f MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE LOAD FOR VERTICAL AND

SLOPED RECTANGULAR GLASS SUPPORTED ON ALL EDGES

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot - 0.0479 kPa.
a. In each graph, the vertical axis is the lesser dimension
b. The diagonal number on each graph shows the equivalent design load in psf/
c. The dashed lines indicate glass that has deflection in excess of ¾ inch.
d. Interpolation between lines is permitted, Extrapolation Is not allowed.
e. For laminated glass, the applicable glass thickness is the total glass thickness.
f. For insulating glass panes, the applicable glass thickness is the thickness of one pane.

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 780 CMR: STATE BOARD OF BUILDING REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS
THE MASSACHUSETTS STATE BUILDING CODE

FIGURE 2404(10)a, b, c, d, e, f MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE LOAD FOR VERTICAL AND

SLOPED RECTANGULAR GLASS SUPPORTED ON ALL EDGES

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot - 0.0479 kPa.
a. In each graph, the vertical axis is the lesser dimension
b. The diagonal number on each graph shows the equivalent design load in psf/
c. The dashed lines indicate glass that has deflection in excess of ¾ inch.
d. Interpolation between lines is permitted, Extrapolation Is not allowed.
e. For laminated glass, the applicable glass thickness is the total glass thickness.
f. For insulating glass panes, the applicable glass thickness is the thickness of one pane.

FIGURE 2404(11)a, b, c, d, e, f MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE LOAD FOR VERTICAL AND

SLOPED RECTANGULAR GLASS SUPPORTED ON ALL EDGES

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot - 0.0479 kPa.
a. In each graph, the vertical axis is the lesser dimension
b. The diagonal number on each graph shows the equivalent design load in psf/
c. The dashed lines indicate glass that has deflection in excess of ¾ inch.
d. Interpolation between lines is permitted, Extrapolation Is not allowed.
e. For laminated glass, the applicable glass thickness is the total glass thickness.
f. For insulating glass panes, the applicable glass thickness is the thickness of one pane.

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 780 CMR: STATE BOARD OF BUILDING REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS
GLASS AND GLAZING

FIGURE 2404(12)a, b, c, d, e, f MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE LOAD FOR VERTICAL AND

SLOPED RECTANGULAR GLASS SUPPORTED ON ALL EDGES

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot - 0.0479 kPa.
a. In each graph, the vertical axis is the lesser dimension
b. The diagonal number on each graph shows the equivalent design load in psf/
c. The dashed lines indicate glass that has deflection in excess of ¾ inch.
d. Interpolation between lines is permitted, Extrapolation Is not allowed.
e. For laminated glass, the applicable glass thickness is the total glass thickness.
f. For insulating glass panes, the applicable glass thickness is the thickness of one pane.
780 CMR 2405.0 SLOPED GLAZING 2405.3 Screening. Where used in monolithic
AND SKYLIGHTS glazing systems, heat-strengthened glass and fully
2405.1 Scope. 780 CMR 2405.0 applies to the tempered glass shall have screens installed below the
installation of glass and other transparent, glazing material. The screens and their fastenings
translucent or opaque glazing material installed at a shall:
slope more than 15 degrees (0.26 rad) from the (a) be capable of supporting twice the weight of
vertical plane, including glazing materials in the glazing;
skylights, roofs and sloped walls. (b) be firmly and substantially fastened to the
framing members and
2405.2 Allowable Glazing Materials and (c) be installed within four inches (102 mm) of
Limitations. Sloped glazing shall be any of the the glass.
following materials, subject to the listed limitations. The screens shall be constructed of a
1. For monolithic glazing systems, the glazing noncombustible material not thinner than No. 12
material of the single light or layer shall be B&S gage (0.0808 inch) with mesh not larger than
laminated glass with a minimum 30-mil (0.76 one inch by one inch (25 mm by 25 mm). In a
mm) polyvinyl butyral (or equivalent) interlayer, corrosive atmosphere, structurally equivalent
wired glass, light-transmitting plastic materials noncorrosive screen materials shall be used. Heat-
meeting the requirements of 780 CMR 2607, heat- strengthened glass, fully tempered glass and wired
strengthened glass or fully tempered glass. glass, when used in multiple-layer glazing systems as
2. For multiple-layer glazing systems, each light the bottom glass layer over the walking surface, shall
or layer shall consist of any of the glazing be equipped with screening that conforms to the
materials specified in 780 CMR 2405.2, Item 1. requirements for monolithic glazing systems.
Annealed glass is permitted to be used as specified Exception: In monolithic and multiple-layer
within 780 CMR 2405.3, Exceptions 2. and 3. sloped glazing systems, the following applies:
For additional requirements for plastic skylights, 1. Fully tempered glass installed without
see 780 CMR 2610.0. Glass-block construction protective screens where glazed between
shall conform to the requirements of 780 CMR intervening floors at a slope of 30 degrees (0.52
2101.2.2. rad) or less from the vertical plane shall have the
highest point of the glass ten feet (3048 mm) or
less above the walking surface.

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 780 CMR: STATE BOARD OF BUILDING REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS
THE MASSACHUSETTS STATE BUILDING CODE

2. Screens are not required below any glazing installed in a roof with a pitch flatter than 14
material, including annealed glass, where the degrees (0.25 rad) shall be mounted at least four
walking surface below the glazing material is inches (102 mm) above the plane of the roof on a
permanently protected from the risk of falling curb constructed as required for the frame unless
glass or the area below the glazing material is not otherwise specified in the manufacturer’s
a walking surface. installation instructions.
3. Any glazing material, including annealed
2405.5 Unit Skylights. Unit skylights shall be
glass, is permitted to be installed without screens
tested and labeled as complying with 101/I.S.2/NAFS
in the sloped glazing systems of commercial or
Voluntary Performance Specification for Windows,
detached noncombustible greenhouses used
Skylights and Glass. The label shall state the name
exclusively for growing plants and not open to the
of the manufacturer, the approved labeling agency,
public, provided that the height of the greenhouse
the product designation and the performance grade
at the ridge does not exceed 30 feet (9144 mm)
rating as specified in 101/I.S.2/NAFS. If the product
above grade.
manufacturer has chosen to have the performance
4. Screens shall not be required within individual
grade of the skylight rated separately for positive and
dwelling units in Groups R-2, R-3 and R-4 as
negative design pressure, then the label shall state
applicable in 780 CMR 101.2 where fully
both performance grade ratings as specified in
tempered glass is used as single glazing or as both
101/I.S.2/NAFS and the skylight shall comply with
panes in an insulating glass unit, and the
780 CMR 2405.5.2. If the skylight is not rated
following conditions are met:
separately for positive and negative pressure, then
4.1. Each pane of the glass is 16 square feet
the performance grade rating shown on the label
(1.5 m2) or less in area.
shall be the performance grade rating determined in
4.2. The highest point of the glass is 12 feet
accordance with 101/I.S.2/NAFS for both positive
(3658 mm) or less above any walking surface
and negative design pressure, and the skylight shall
or other accessible area.
conform to 780 CMR 2405.5.1.
4.3. The glass thickness is 3/16 inch (4.8 mm)
or less. 2405.5.1 Unit Skylights Rated for the Same
5. Screens shall not be required for laminated Performance Grade for Both Positive and
glass with a 15-mil (0.38 mm) polyvinyl butyral Negative Design Pressure. The design of unit
(or equivalent) interlayer used within individual skylights shall be based on the following equation:
dwelling units in Groups R-2, R-3 and R-4 as
applicable in 780 CMR 101.2 within the EQUATION 24-8
following limits: Fg _ PG
5.1. Each pane of glass is 16 square feet (1.5 where:
m2) or less in area. Fg is the maximum load on the skylight
5.2. The highest point of the glass is 12 feet determined from Equations 24-3 through 24-5 in
(3658 mm) or less above a walking surface or 780 CMR 2404.2.
other accessible area. PG is the performance grade rating of the skylight.
2405.4 Framing. In Type 1 and 2 construction, 2405.5.2 Unit Skylights Rated for Separate
sloped glazing and skylight frames shall be Performance Grades for Positive and Negative
constructed of noncombustible materials. In Design Pressure. The design of unit skylights
structures where acid fumes deleterious to metal are rated for performance grade for both positive and
incidental to the use of the buildings, approved negative design pressures shall be based on the
pressure-treated wood or other approved non- following equations:
corrosive materials are permitted to be used for sash EQUATION 24-9
and frames. Framing supporting sloped glazing and
Fgi _ PGPos
skylights shall be designed to resist the tributary
roof loads in Chapter 16. Skylights set at an angle
EQUATION 24-10
of less than 45 degrees (0.79 rad) from the horizontal
plane shall be mounted at least four inches (102 mm) Fgo _ PGNeg
above the plane of the roof on a curb constructed as where:
required for the frame. Skylights shall not be PGPos is the performance grade rating of the
installed in the plane of the roof where the roof pitch skylight under positive design pressure,
is less than 45 degrees (0.79 rad) from the PGNeg is the performance grade rating of the
horizontal. skylight under negative design pressure, and
Exception. Installation of a skylight without a Fgi and Fgo are determined in accordance with the
curb shall be permitted on roofs with a minimum following:
slope of 14 degrees (three units vertical in 12 units If WO _ D, where Wo is the outward wind force,
horizontal) in Group R-3 occupancies as psf (kN/m2) as calculated in 780 CMR 1609
applicable in 780 CMR 101.2. All unit skylights and D is the dead weight of the glazing, psf

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 780 CMR: STATE BOARD OF BUILDING REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS
GLASS AND GLAZING

(kN/m2) as determined in 780 CMR 2404.2 for 2406.1.3 Plastic Glazing. Plastic glazing shall
glass, or by the weight of the plastic, psf meet the weathering requirements of ANSI Z97.1.
(kN/m2) for plastic glazing.
2406.1.4 Glass Block. Glass-block walls shall
Fgi is the maximum load on the skylight
comply with 780 CMR 2101.2.2.
determined from Equations 24-4 and 24-5 in
780 CMR 2404.2, 2406.1.5 Louvered Windows and Jalousies.
Fgo is the maximum load on the skylight Louvered windows and jalousies shall comply
determined from Equation 24-3. with 780 CMR 2403.5.
If WO << D, where Wo is the outward wind 2406.2 Identification of Safety Glazing. Except as
force, psf (kN/m2) as calculated in 780 CMR indicated in 780 CMR 2406.1.2, each pane of safety
1609 and D is the dead weight of the glazing, glazing installed in hazardous locations shall be
psf (kN/m2) as determined in 780 CMR 2404.2 identified by a label specifying the labeler, whether
for glass, or by the weight of the plastic for the manufacturer or installer, and the safety glazing
plastic glazing. standard with which it complies, as well as the
Fgi is the maximum load on the skylight information specified in 780 CMR 2403.1. The
determined from Equations 24-3 through 24-5 label shall be acid etched, sand blasted, ceramic fired
in 780 CMR 2404.2, or an embossed mark, or shall be of a type that once
Fgo = 0. applied cannot be removed without being destroyed.
Exceptions:
780 CMR 2406.0 SAFETY GLAZING 1. For other than tempered glass, labels are not
2406.1 Human Impact Loads. Individual glazed required, provided the building official approves
areas, including glass mirrors, in hazardous locations the use of a certificate, affidavit or other evidence
as defined in 780 CMR 2406.3 shall comply with confirming compliance with 780 CMR.
780 CMR 2406.1.1 through 2406.1.5. 2. Tempered spandrel glass is permitted to be
2406.1.1 CPSC 16 CFR 1201. Except as identified by the manufacturer with a removable
provided in 780 CMR 2406.1.2 through 2406.1.5, paper label.
all glazing shall pass the test requirements of 2406.2.1 Multilight Assemblies. Multilight
CPSC 16 CFR 1201, listed in 780 CMR 35.00. glazed assemblies having individual lights not
Glazing shall comply with the CPSC 16 CFR, Part exceeding one square foot (0.09 square meter) in
1201 criteria, for Category I or II as indicated in exposed area shall have at least one light in the
Table 2406.1. assembly marked as indicated in 780 CMR
2406.2. Other lights in the assembly shall be
2406.1.2 Wired Glass. In other than Group E,
marked “CPSC 16 CFR 1201” or “ANSI Z97.1,”
wired glass installed in fire doors, fire windows
as appropriate.
and view panels in fire-resistant walls shall be
permitted to comply with ANSI Z97.1.

TABLE 2406.1 MINIMUM CATEGORY CLASSIFICATION OF GLAZING

GLAZING IN GLAZED GLAZED DOORS AND SLIDING
EXPOSED STORM OR GLAZING PANELS PANELS ENCLOSURES GLASS
SURFACE AREA COM BINATI IN DOORS REGULATED REGULATED REGULATED DOORS
OF ONE SIDE OF ON DOORS (Category BY 780 CM R BY 780 CM R BY 780 CM R PATIO TYPE
ONE LITE (Category class) 2406.3, ITEM 7. 2406.3, ITEM 6. 2406.3, ITEM 5. (Category
class) (Category class) (Category class) (Category class) class)
9 square feet or less I I No requirement I II II
More than 9 square
II II II II II II
feet
For SI: 1 square foot - 0.0929m2

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2406.3 Hazardous Locations. The following shall units or multiple glazing where the bottom
be considered specific hazardous locations requiring exposed edge of the glass is 25 feet (7620
safety glazing materials: mm) or more above any grade, roof, walking
1. Glazing in swinging doors except jalousies. surface or other horizontal or sloped (within
2. Glazing in fixed and sliding panels of sliding 45 degrees of horizontal) (0.78 rad) surface
door assemblies and panels in sliding and bifold adjacent to the glass exterior.
closet door assemblies. 8. Glazing in guards and railings, including
3. Glazing in storm doors. structural baluster panels and nonstructural in-fill
4. Glazing in unframed swinging doors. panels, regardless of area or height above a
5. Glazing in doors and enclosures for hot tubs, walking surface.
whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms, bathtubs and 9. Glazing in walls and fences enclosing indoor
showers. Glazing in any portion of a building and outdoor swimming pools, hot tubs and spas
wall enclosing these compartments where the where all of the following conditions are present:
bottom exposed edge of the glazing is less than 60 9.1. The bottom edge of the glazing on the
inches (1524 mm) above a standing surface. pool or spa side is less than 60 inches (1524
6. Glazing in an individual fixed or operable mm) above a walking surface on the pool or
panel adjacent to a door where the nearest spa side of the glazing; and
exposed edge of the glazing is within a 24-inch 9.2. The glazing is within 60 inches (1524
(610 mm) arc of either vertical edge of the door in mm) horizontally of the water’s edge of a
a closed position and where the bottom exposed swimming pool or spa.
edge of the glazing is less than 60 inches (1524 10. Glazing adjacent to stairways, landings and
mm) above the walking surface. ramps within 36 inches (914 mm) horizontally of
Exceptions: a walking surface; when the exposed surface of
1. Panels where there is an intervening wall or the glass is less than 60 inches (1524 mm) above
other permanent barrier between the door and the plane of the adjacent walking surface.
glazing. 11. Glazing adjacent to stairways within 60
2. Where access through the door is to a closet inches (1524 mm) horizontally of the bottom tread
or storage area three feet (914 mm) or less in of a stairway in any direction when the exposed
depth. Glazing in this application shall comply surface of the glass is less than 60 inches (1524
with 780 CMR 2406.3, Item 7. mm) above the nose of the tread.
3. Glazing in walls perpendicular to the plane Exception. Safety glazing for 780 CMR
of the door in a closed position, other than the 2406.3, Item 10. or 11. is not required for the
wall towards which the door swings when following installations where:
opened, in one- and two-family dwellings or 1. The side of a stairway, landing or ramp
within dwelling units in Group R-2. which has a guardrail or handrail, including
7. Glazing in an individual fixed or operable balusters or in-fill panels, complying with the
panel, other than in those locations described in provisions of 780 CMR 1012 and 1607.7; and
preceding Items 5 and 6, which meets all of the 2. The plane of the glass is greater than 18
following conditions: inches (457 mm) from the railing.
7.1. Exposed area of an individual pane 2406.3.1 Exceptions. The following products,
greater than nine square feet (0.84 m2); materials and uses shall not be considered specific
7.2. Exposed bottom edge less than 18 inches hazardous locations:
(457 mm) above the floor; 1. Openings in doors through which a three-
7.3. Exposed top edge greater than 36 inches inch (76 mm) sphere is unable to pass.
(914 mm) above the floor; and 2. Decorative glass in 780 CMR 2406.3,
7.4. One or more walking surface(s) within 36 Item 1., 6. or 7.
inches (914 mm) horizontally of the plane of 3. Glazing materials used as curved glazed
the glazing. panels in revolving doors.
Exception. Safety glazing for 780 CMR 4. Commercial refrigerated cabinet glazed
2406.3, Item 7 is not required for the doors.
following installations: 5. Glass-block panels complying with
1. A protective bar 11/2 inches (38 mm) or 780 CMR 2101.2.2.
more in height, capable of withstanding a 6. Louvered windows and jalousies complying
horizontal load of 50 pounds plf (730 N/m) with the requirements of 780 CMR 2403.5.
without contacting the glass, is installed on 7. Mirrors and other glass panels mounted or
the accessible sides of the glazing 34 inches hung on a surface that provides a continuous
to 38 inches (864 mm to 965 mm) above the backing support.
floor.
2. The outboard pane in insulating glass

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 780 CMR: STATE BOARD OF BUILDING REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS
GLASS AND GLAZING

2406.4 Fire Department Access Panels. Fire mm).

department glass access panels shall be of tempered Glass doors shall comply with the following
glass. For insulating glass units, all panes shall be conditions:
tempered glass.
1. Glass doors shall remain intact following a
test impact at the prescribed height in the
780 CMR 2407.0 GLASS IN HANDRAILS center of the door.
AND GUARDS 2. The relative deflection between the edge of
2407.1 Materials. Glass used as structural a glass door and the adjacent wall shall not
balustrade panels in railings shall be constructed of exceed the thickness of the wall plus ½ inch
either single fully tempered glass, laminated fully (12.7 mm) for a drop height of 48 inches (1219
tempered glass or laminated heat-strengthened glass. mm).
Glazing in railing in-fill panels shall be of an
approved safety glazing material that conforms to the 2408.3 Gymnasiums and Basketball Courts.
provisions of 780 CMR 2406.1.1. For all glazing Glazing in multipurpose gymnasiums, basketball
types, the minimum nominal thickness shall be ¼ courts and similar athletic facilities subject to human
inch (6.4 mm). Fully tempered glass and laminated impact loads shall comply with Category II of CPSC
glass shall comply with Category II of CPSC 16 CFR 16 CFR 1201, listed in 780 CMR 35.00.
1201, listed in 780 CMR 35.00.
780 CMR 2409.0 GLASS IN FLOORS
2407.1.1 Loads. The panels and their support
AND SIDEWALKS
system shall be designed to withstand the loads
specified in 780 CMR 1607.7. A safety factor of 2409.1 General. Glass installed in the walking
four shall be used. surface of floors, landings, stairwells and similar
locations shall comply with 780 CMR 2409.2
2407.1.2 Support. Each handrail or guard section
through 2409.4.
shall be supported by a minimum of three glass
balusters or shall be otherwise supported to 2409.2 Design Load. The design for glass used in
remain in place should one baluster panel fail. floors, landings, stair treads and similar locations
Glass balusters shall not be installed without an shall be determined as indicated in 780 CMR 2409.4
attached handrail or guard. based on the load that produces the greater stresses
2407.1.3 Parking Garages. Glazing materials from the following:
shall not be installed in railings in parking garages 1. The uniformly distributed unit load (Fu) from
except for pedestrian areas not exposed to impact 780 CMR 1605.0;
from vehicles. 2. The concentrated load (Fc) from Table 1607.1;
or
780 CMR 2408.0 GLAZING IN ATHLETIC 3. The actual load (Fa) produced by the intended
FACILITIES use.
2408.1 General. Glazing in athletic facilities and The dead load (D) for glass in psf (kN/m2) shall be
similar uses subject to impact loads, which forms taken as the total thickness of the glass plies in
whole or partial wall sections or which is used as a inches by 13 (For SI: glass plies in mm by 0.0245).
door or part of a door, shall comply with 780 CMR Load reductions allowed by 780 CMR 1607.9 are not
2408.0. permitted.

2408.2 Racquetball and Squash Courts. 2409.3 Laminated Glass. Laminated glass having
a minimum of two plies shall be used. The glass
2408.2.1 Testing. Test methods and loads for
shall be capable of supporting the total design load,
individual glazed areas in racquetball and squash
as indicated in 780 CMR 2409.4, with any one ply
courts subject to impact loads shall conform to
broken
those of CPSC 16 CFR, Part 1201, listed in
.
780 CMR 35.00, with impacts being applied at a 2409.4 Design Formula. Glass in floors and
height of 59 inches (1499 mm) above the playing sidewalks shall be designed to resist the most critical
surface to an actual or simulated glass wall of the following combinations of loads:
installation with fixtures, fittings and methods of
assembly identical to those used in practice. EQUATION 24-11
Glass walls shall comply with the following Fg = 2 Fu + D
conditions:
1. A glass wall in a racquetball or squash EQUATION 24-12
court, or similar use subject to impact loads, Fg = (8Fc /A) + D
shall remain intact following a test impact.
2. The deflection of such walls shall not be EQUATION 24-13
greater than 1½ inches (38 mm) at the point of
Fg = Fa + D
impact for a drop height of 48 inches (1219

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THE MASSACHUSETTS STATE BUILDING CODE

where: glass, computed by the following formula:

A = Area of rectangular glass, ft2 (m2).
D = Glass dead load (psf) = 13 tg (for SI: 0.0245 EQUATION 24-15
tg, kN/m2). Fga = 0.67 c2 Fge
tg = Total glass thickness, inches (mm).
where:
Fa = Actual intended use load, psf (kN/m2).
Fge = Maximum allowable equivalent load, psf
Fc = Concentrated load, pounds (kN).
(kN/m2), determined from Figures 2404(1)
Fg = Total load, psf (kN/m2) on glass.
through 2404(12) for the applicable glass
Fu = Uniformly distributed load, psf (kN/m2).
dimensions and thickness; and
The design of the glazing shall be based on
c2 = Factor determined from Table 2404.2 based
on glass type.
EQUATION 24-14
The factor, c2, for laminated glass found in
Fg _ Fga Table 2404.2 shall apply to two-ply laminates
where Fg is the maximum load on the glass only. The value of Fa shall be doubled for
determined from the load combinations above, dynamic applications.
and Fga is the maximum allowable load on the

500.46 780 CMR - Seventh Edition 8/22/08 (Effective 9/1/08)