Learn what P6B means in EN 356 glass, how axe attack testing works, and where P6B security glazing is typically specified.
P6B glass is a high-security classification within the EN 356 standard.
It refers to laminated security glass that has been tested for resistance against sustained manual attack using an axe.
EN 356 ratings range from P1A to P8B. Lower ratings such as P1A to P5A are tested using steel ball drops, while higher ratings such as P6B, P7B and P8B are tested using repeated axe strikes.
This makes P6B glass suitable for projects where impact resistance alone is not enough and a higher level of forced entry resistance is required.
As experienced security glass manufacturers in the UK, Tecdur designs and manufactures Tecdur Secure Glass —
a high-performance laminated glass range engineered to withstand severe levels of manual attack and certified to recognised standards including EN 356 and LPS 1270.
What Is P6B Glass?
P6B glass is an EN 356 classification used for security glazing that can resist repeated axe strikes before an aperture, or opening, is formed.
It is the first level in the axe-tested category of EN 356, sitting above the P1A to P5A impact resistance classifications.
In practical terms, P6B glass is designed to delay a determined attack and prevent quick penetration through the glazing.
Even if the glass cracks, the laminated construction holds the panel together and continues to act as a barrier.
How Is P6B Glass Tested?
P6B glass is tested using repeated strikes from an axe.
The test measures how many strikes are required before an opening can be created in the glass.
As a general guide, P6B is achieved when the glass withstands approximately 30 to 50 axe strikes before an aperture is formed.
Higher ratings such as P7B and P8B require the glass to withstand more strikes.
- P6B – approximately 30 to 50 axe strikes
- P7B – approximately 51 to 70 axe strikes
- P8B – more than 70 axe strikes
P6B vs P1A to P5A Glass
The main difference between P6B and the lower EN 356 ratings is the type of testing used.
P1A to P5A glass is tested using steel ball drops, which measure impact resistance.
P6B glass is tested using axe strikes, which measure resistance to a more sustained manual attack.
- P1A to P5A – suitable for impact resistance, vandal protection and exposed glazing areas
- P6B – suitable for higher-risk environments where forced entry resistance is required
This makes P6B glass a stronger option for sites where the risk of deliberate attack is more significant.
Where Is P6B Glass Used?
P6B glass is commonly specified where glazing needs to resist more than opportunistic impact.
It is often used in buildings where valuable assets, occupants or secure areas need enhanced protection.
- High value retail storefronts
- Commercial buildings requiring enhanced protection
- Security doors and glazed screens
- VIP protection environments
- Prisons and police custody suites
- Mental health establishments
- High security facilities
Is P6B the Right Rating for Your Project?
P6B glass can be an effective choice where a higher level of forced entry resistance is needed without necessarily specifying the highest EN 356 classifications.
However, the right rating depends on the building’s risk profile, insurance requirements, glazing location and wider security strategy.
It is also important to ensure the framing system and installation method are suitable for the selected glass specification.
The full glazing system must work together to achieve the intended level of protection.
Can P6B Glass Be Enhanced Further?
Tecdur Secure Glass can be enhanced with additional performance benefits depending on project requirements.
- Ballistic resistance (EN 1063)
- Blast resistance
- Fire resistance (Exova, CertiFire)
- Acoustic performance
- Switchable privacy glass technology
Secure Glass can be:
Enhance Security
Impact Resistant
Bullet Resistant
Blast Resistant
Fire Resistant
Acoustic
Why Choose Tecdur?
With over 15 years of industry experience and extensive in-house manufacturing capability, Tecdur provides certified, high-performance security glazing designed to protect people and property.
Our team works closely with architects, contractors and specifiers to ensure the correct EN 356 glass rating is selected for each project.
Whether you require P6B glass, a higher EN 356 rating or a wider security glazing system, Tecdur can help you specify the right tested solution.