Learn how EN 356 anti-bandit glass is tested, what each rating means, and how to choose the right level of security glazing.
EN 356 anti-bandit glass is a classification system used to measure how well glass resists manual attack.
It is one of the most widely recognised standards for security glazing in Europe and is commonly used when specifying protection against vandalism and forced entry.
The EN 356 standard defines how glass is tested and assigns performance ratings based on its resistance to impact from heavy objects and tools.
These ratings help architects, contractors and security consultants select the appropriate level of protection for a building.
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 Is EN 356?
EN 356 is a European standard that measures the resistance of glass to manual attack.
It is often referred to as the anti-bandit glass standard because it simulates attempts to break through glazing using impact and tools.
The standard divides glass into different classifications based on how it performs under controlled testing conditions.
These tests replicate real-world scenarios such as objects being thrown at glazing or attempts to break through using tools.
EN 356 Classification Levels
EN 356 is split into two main categories depending on the type of test used: ball drop testing and axe attack testing.
P1A – P5A (Steel Ball Drop Test)
Lower classifications are tested using a heavy steel ball dropped repeatedly onto the glass from a fixed height.
The test measures how well the glass resists impact without allowing penetration.
- P1A
- P2A
- P3A
- P4A
- P5A
Each level increases the energy and number of impacts the glass must withstand. These classifications are commonly used for protection against vandalism and accidental impact.
P6B – P8B (Axe Attack Test)
Higher classifications involve repeated strikes from an axe to simulate a determined attempt to break through the glass.
The rating depends on how many strikes are required to create an opening large enough to pass through.
- P6B – approximately 30 to 50 axe strikes
- P7B – approximately 51 to 70 axe strikes
- P8B – more than 70 axe strikes
How EN 356 Testing Works in Practice
EN 356 testing is carried out under controlled conditions to ensure consistent and repeatable results.
Each test evaluates whether the glass can withstand a defined level of impact without allowing an opening to form.
The results provide a clear indication of how the glass will perform under real-world conditions, allowing specifiers to match the glazing performance to the level of risk.
EN 356 vs LPS 1270
While EN 356 focuses on impact resistance, LPS 1270 is another important security glazing standard.
It was developed with input from insurers and security professionals to simulate more realistic attack scenarios using a wider range of tools.
Many high-performance glazing systems are tested to both EN 356 and LPS 1270 to provide a more complete understanding of their resistance to attack.
How to Choose the Right EN 356 Rating
The correct EN 356 classification depends on the building’s risk profile and the level of protection required.
Lower ratings may be suitable for general vandal resistance, while higher ratings are used in environments requiring enhanced security.
- Retail storefronts and commercial buildings
- High-value environments
- Secure facilities and institutional buildings
- Security doors and screens
Specifying the correct rating ensures the glazing provides the required level of protection without unnecessary cost or complexity.
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 advanced 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 anti-bandit glass rating is selected for each project.
Whether you require impact-resistant glazing or a higher level of security performance, Tecdur can help you specify the right tested solution.