Understand what EN 356 glass ratings mean, how P1A to P8B classifications are tested, and how to choose the right level of security glazing.
EN 356 glass ratings are used to classify how well security glazing resists impact and manual attack.
These ratings range from P1A to P8B, with each classification representing a different level of protection.
EN 356 is commonly used when specifying anti-bandit glass, anti-vandal glass and laminated security glass.
It gives architects, contractors and security consultants a recognised way to compare performance and select the correct glass for a project.
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 EN 356 and LPS 1270 standards.
What Are EN 356 Glass Ratings?
EN 356 ratings measure the resistance of glass to manual attack.
The classifications are split into two main groups: P1A to P5A and P6B to P8B.
The lower ratings focus on resistance to repeated impact, while the higher ratings measure resistance to sustained tool attack.
The higher the rating, the greater the level of protection provided by the glazing.
P1A to P5A: Steel Ball Drop Testing
EN 356 ratings from P1A to P5A are tested using a heavy steel ball dropped onto the glass from a defined height.
This test simulates impact from heavy objects and helps determine whether the glass can resist penetration.
- P1A – entry-level impact resistance
- P2A – improved resistance to repeated impact
- P3A – moderate protection against impact and vandalism
- P4A – higher impact resistance for more exposed locations
- P5A – strong impact resistance before moving into axe-tested classifications
These classifications are typically used where the main risk is vandalism, accidental impact or opportunistic attack.
P6B to P8B: Axe Attack Testing
EN 356 ratings from P6B to P8B are designed for higher levels of security.
Instead of using a steel ball drop test, these classifications are tested using repeated axe strikes.
The purpose of the test is to measure how many strikes are required before an aperture can be created in the glass.
This makes P6B to P8B classifications suitable for environments where sustained manual attack is a credible risk.
- P6B – approximately 30 to 50 axe strikes
- P7B – approximately 51 to 70 axe strikes
- P8B – more than 70 axe strikes
How to Choose the Right EN 356 Rating
Choosing the right EN 356 glass rating depends on the risk level, building use and value of the assets being protected.
Lower ratings may be suitable for general impact resistance, while higher ratings are needed for sites where a determined attack is more likely.
- P1A to P3A – lower-risk impact and vandal resistance
- P4A to P5A – enhanced protection for exposed or higher-value areas
- P6B to P8B – high-security applications requiring sustained attack resistance
Why Certified Ratings Matter
EN 356 ratings are important because they provide a standardised measure of performance.
Rather than relying on thickness alone, specifiers can select glass based on tested resistance to impact and attack.
This helps ensure the glazing selected is appropriate for the threat level, insurance requirements and practical needs of the building.
EN 356 Glass Applications
EN 356 rated glass is commonly used in locations where glazing must resist impact, vandalism or forced entry.
- High value retail storefronts
- Commercial buildings and reception areas
- Security doors and glazed screens
- VIP protection environments
- Prisons and police custody suites
- Mental health establishments
- High security facilities
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 P1A impact resistance, P6B axe attack resistance or a higher-rated security glazing system, Tecdur can help you specify the right tested solution.