Overview
ISO 19916-4:2026, titled Glass in building - Vacuum insulating glass - Part 4: Pendulum impact testing and classification, is an international standard developed by ISO/TC 160 (Glass in Building). This standard provides a methodology for evaluating the safety characteristics of vacuum insulating glass (VIG) when subjected to accidental human impact. By utilizing specific impactors referenced in ISO 29584:2015, it defines criteria to classify VIG products based on their breakage performance, helping to minimize the risk of cutting and piercing injuries. The standard is focused on performance classification rather than specifying intended applications, enabling users, architects, and regulatory authorities to make informed choices about safety glass in various settings.
Key Topics
- Applicability: Covers VIG without further processing (Group 2), VIG laminated glass, and VIG with safety film backing (Group 1). Insulating glass units with VIG are excluded.
- Test Methodology: Specifies pendulum impact testing procedures, specimen preparation, and test apparatus requirements aligned with ISO 29584:2015.
- Mode of Breakage:
- Type A: Standard fracture with large, sharp fragments
- Type B: Cracking, but fragments remain held together (laminated/film-backed)
- Type C: Disintegration into many small, relatively harmless pieces (tempered)
- Performance Classification: Outlines a three-level drop height class system, correlating impact energy with safety performance. Classification aids in choosing appropriate glass for different locations.
- Reporting and Documentation: Details specific information that must be included in test reports for full traceability and transparency.
- Fragmentation Testing: For tempered glass panes that do not break during impact tests, an additional fragmentation test is required to verify breakage pattern compliance.
Applications
ISO 19916-4:2026 is essential for:
- Building safety planning: Architects, specifiers, and contractors use this standard to select VIG products that meet safety criteria for areas prone to accidental impact, such as doors, windows, partitions, and glass walls.
- Regulatory compliance: Legislators and building code officials reference these classifications to establish minimum safety requirements for glass installations in public and private buildings.
- Product development and quality assurance: Glass manufacturers and processors utilize the testing methodology and classification system to ensure their VIG products offer consistent and verifiable safety performance.
- Risk assessment: Facility managers and safety consultants rely on standardized test results to evaluate the suitability and risk profile of VIG in various environments, helping to reduce liability and enhance occupant protection.
Related Standards
- ISO 29584:2015: Glass in building - Pendulum impact testing and classification of safety glass. Provides fundamental test methods referenced throughout ISO 19916-4.
- ISO 19916-1: Glass in building - Vacuum insulating glass - Part 1: Basic specification of products and evaluation methods for thermal and sound insulating performance. Establishes terminology and essential criteria for VIG products used in buildings.
- ISO 12540:2017: Glass in building - Tempered soda lime silicate safety glass. Specifies requirements and test procedures for tempered glass, including fragmentation testing referenced in ISO 19916-4.
Keywords: vacuum insulating glass, VIG, pendulum impact testing, glass safety classification, building glass standard, ISO 19916-4, breakage mode, glazing safety, impact-resistant glass, tempered laminated glass, safety glazing in buildings.