Where is tempered glass specifically required according to building code regulations?

Tempered glass is specifically required in areas where safety is a critical concern due to the potential for breakage and injury. This includes locations such as stairways, doors, and shower rooms, where the risk of impact and the likelihood of the glass shattering into small, harmless pieces are significant. The use of tempered glass in these areas helps minimize the risk of severe injuries that could occur from breakage.

In stairways, for example, the glass is often used in guardrails or as enclosures where falls could occur, requiring materials that can withstand significant impact. Similarly, doors that are frequently used in residential and commercial settings must be made of materials that reduce risks during high traffic or accidental collisions. In shower rooms, the presence of water and the potential for users to slip increases the necessity for durable glass that will not shatter easily.

Other options, while they may involve glazing, do not have the same stringent requirements. For instance, while windows and skylights are critical components of building safety and energy efficiency, they do not always necessitate the use of tempered glass unless they fall within specific usage scenarios. Exterior walls and roofs primarily focus on structural integrity and weather resistance rather than solely on safety concerns related to glass breakage. Lastly, not all