Understand how EN 356 glass compares to security glass, what each term means, and how to choose the right glazing for your project.
EN 356 glass and security glass are closely related terms, but they do not mean exactly the same thing. EN 356 glass refers specifically to security glazing that has been tested and classified under the European EN 356 standard for resistance to manual attack.
Security glass is a broader term used to describe a wide range of protective glazing systems. This can include EN 356 rated glass, LPS 1270 security glazing, ballistic resistant glass, blast resistant glass, fire resistant security glass and other specialist laminated glazing systems.
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 EN 356 Glass?
EN 356 glass is security glazing tested against manual attack. The standard measures how well the glass resists impact from heavy objects or repeated tool strikes.
EN 356 classifications range from P1A to P8B. Lower classifications are tested using steel ball drops, while higher classifications are tested using repeated axe strikes.
- P1A to P5A – tested using steel ball drop impact tests
- P6B to P8B – tested using repeated axe attack tests
This makes EN 356 glass particularly relevant for anti-bandit glass, anti-vandal glass and forced entry resistant glazing applications.
What Is Security Glass?
Security glass is a wider category of glazing designed to protect people, property and assets. It may be specified to resist different threats depending on the building type and risk profile.
Security glass can include:
- EN 356 anti-bandit glass
- LPS 1270 security glazing
- Ballistic resistant glass (EN 1063)
- Blast resistant glass
- Fire resistant security glass
- Acoustic or privacy-enhanced security glazing
Key Differences Between EN 356 Glass and Security Glass
The main difference is that EN 356 glass is a specific certified category, while security glass is the broader umbrella term for protective glazing.
- EN 356 glass is tested specifically for manual attack resistance.
- Security glass can include several different certified and specialist glazing types.
- EN 356 glass is commonly used for anti-bandit and anti-vandal applications.
- Security glass may also include ballistic, blast, fire or acoustic performance.
- Both are typically manufactured using laminated glass constructions.
When Should EN 356 Glass Be Specified?
EN 356 glass is often specified when the main risk is vandalism, forced entry or manual attack. It is especially useful where glazing must delay intrusion or prevent rapid access through windows, doors or screens.
Typical applications include retail storefronts, commercial buildings, secure entrances, custody suites, mental health facilities and high-security environments.
When Is Broader Security Glass Needed?
Broader security glass may be needed when a project requires additional performance beyond EN 356 manual attack resistance. For example, a secure facility may require ballistic resistance, blast protection, acoustic reduction or fire resistance alongside impact performance.
In these cases, a multi-performance security glazing system may be specified to meet several requirements within one solution.
Choosing the Right Specification
The correct specification should be based on a realistic assessment of the building’s risk profile. Over-specifying can increase cost and weight unnecessarily, while under-specifying may leave vulnerable areas exposed.
Working with experienced manufacturers ensures the glazing is selected according to tested performance, not just thickness or appearance.
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 or wider security glass solution is selected for each project.
Whether your project requires anti-bandit glass, LPS 1270 glazing, ballistic resistance or additional performance benefits, Tecdur can help specify the right tested system.