Why Usage of Safety Glass should be mandated by the Government in India?

History of glass dates back to 3000 years BC. Manufacturing of glass has been evolving over the time. Industrial era saw the most magnificent change in the glass making and glass processing industry. The invention of mesh glass, laminated glass and toughened glass were few major contributions from this era.

Till two decades back, the usage of glass was limited to industries and commercial segment. Especially in constructing of sound proof, bullet proof glass etc., The residential sector had limited usage of glass for windows, door partitions etc., Annealed Glass was more prominent in the residential segment.

However with the increased production and awareness about the existence of Safety Glass, now we see an increase in its usage in the domestic segment. Usage of Safety Glass for interiors gained traction in the last one decade. Consumers have started considering glass interiors to display their elegance and comfort.

In the last five years there has been extensive usage of Safety Glass in high rise commercial buildings, which has displayed the confidence of Real Estate segment in the strength and durability of Safety Glass. But the question stands - Are consumers aware of the safety aspects of the Glass? Do Consumers understand the difference between Glass and Safety Glass? What is the cost difference that it makes between Glass and Safety Glass?

In the last five years there has been extensive usage of Safety Glass in high rise commercial buildings, which has displayed the confidence of Real Estate segment in the strength and durability of Safety Glass. But the question stands - Are consumers aware of the safety aspects of the Glass? 

Do Consumers understand the difference between Glass and Safety Glass? What is the cost difference that it makes between Glass and Safety Glass?

Now consumers are aware that Safety Glass is no longer a Myth and that it is really safe. But the challenge comes when consumers assume that Safety Glass is costly as it brings additional safety aspects along with it. This perspective has been stopping many consumers from even inquiring about safety glass. But it is quite surprising to know that there is only 10% difference between an ordinary glass (unsafe) and Safety Glass.

A segment of consumers who understand that Safety is a priority and not a choice, hardly hesitate to invest in the Glass that is Safe for use. Especially when it comes to domestic segment where kids and elderly live. However, the percentage of population that thinks as such is less.

In Indian market, the RERA and NBC have laid down few guidelines towards usage of Glass in Commercial and Residential Real Estate segments. While NBC gives strict codes to adher to, RERA gives the permission to the local residential builders to take up construction.

There is a huge gap between RERA and NBC, that the Consumers are blinded about. While NBC strictly gives the construction guidelines that have to be followed, RERA, which is a decentralized and autonomous body, clearly excuses few guidelines laid down by NBC. Just to quote a small example, RERA and NBC agree on building materials, but the approval of a venture or project stands with RERA. Secondly, certain safety aspects like Fire Safety, Water Harvesting are mandated by RERA. A builder can get an occupancy certificate only when proofs of above are submitted, but submitting proof towards the usage of Safety Glass for issuance of occupancy certificate is not mandated. This risks the lives of all the occupants in the commercial/residential space. Any Mishap shall have huge burden on the government and the exchequer, just because RERA didn’t ask for a Safety Glass Certificate from the builder.

It is to be noted that developed countries like USA, Australia and UK mandate the usage of Safety Glass in residential and commercial projects. India, being the second most populated country in the World, should also take special precautions towards safety of its people in the metropolitan cities. Government of India should definitely think about mandatory usage of Safety Glass in the construction of high-rise buildings. Safety Glass is “the only” option and is no longer a Choice!