The European EN 356 standard provides the basic technical framework for assessing glazing resistance to attempted intrusion and acts of vandalism. For installers, architects and project owners, knowing how to read the P1A to P8B classes—and translate them into practical choices—is essential from the tender stage onward.
Two test levels, two protection approaches
EN 356 distinguishes two main resistance families, identified by different letters:
Series A (P1A to P5A): Resistance to vandalism
These classes assess glazing resistance to repeated impacts from a 4.11 kg steel ball, simulating thrown objects such as stones, blocks and tools, without the intention of a planned break-in. The test is performed on three successive test specimens. Glazing is assigned to a given category if the ball does not pass through it.
| Class | Drop height | Energy (J) | Number of impacts |
|---|---|---|---|
| P1A | 1.5 m | 60 | 3 (in a triangle) |
| P2A | 3 m | 120 | 3 (in a triangle) |
| P3A | 6 m | 240 | 3 (in a triangle) |
| P4A | 9 m | 360 | 3 (in a triangle) |
Source: Solar Screen, SAFETY_NORMES-FR technical documentation
Series B (P6B to P8B): Resistance to forced entry
These classes simulate an attempted intrusion using tools such as a sledgehammer or axe, with the aim of creating a 40 cm x 40 cm opening large enough for a person to pass through. The number of impacts required to create this opening determines the class:
- P6B: resistance to a low-intensity attack
- P7B: resistance to a medium-intensity attack
- P8B: high resistance—typically required for buildings with significant security concerns
Note: Series B applies exclusively to high-performance laminated glass products. Adhesive safety films installed on existing glazing can achieve Series A classes; Series B classes generally require the performance to be integrated into the glazing design.
Reading an EN 356 classification in a project context
Reading an EN 356 class requires three factors to be considered together: the building's intended use, the estimated level of risk and the type of glazing already installed or specified.
For standard residential or commercial use, P1A to P3A classes cover most common situations. The minimum class selected depends on each insurer's requirements and the relevant geographical area. Always check with the policy manager before making a final choice.
For retail premises, jewellery stores and public-access buildings, insurance requirements are often higher, potentially reaching P4A or even P6B in areas with a proven risk. The insurer's requirements are the reference point; consulting the relevant documentation is essential before sizing the solution.
For sensitive buildings such as banks, embassies and data centres, P7B and P8B are common starting points in security specifications, alongside other perimeter-security measures. These levels remain subject to the risk assessment for each project.
Safety film on existing glazing: what EN 356 performance can be achieved?
Adding an adhesive safety film to existing glazing changes its mechanical properties without requiring the complete replacement of the frame. Solar Screen offers EN 356-certified films, with the achievable class depending on the selected product, the thickness of the glass substrate and the installation conditions.
These certifications apply to a glass-and-film configuration tested in a laboratory. For any project subject to a binding specification, you must obtain the EN 356 classification test report for the exact configuration being considered—film type, glass thickness and installation method—issued by an accredited laboratory.
New glazing vs. film installed on existing glazing
New laminated glazing incorporates its EN 356 performance directly into its structure. A retrofit safety film changes the mechanical behaviour of existing glazing, but does not automatically give the entire system an equivalent certification. This distinction is critical when drafting technical specifications and providing documentation in the event of a claim.
For projects subject to a binding EN 356 class requirement—such as public-sector contracts or insurance specifications—only a test report covering the complete configuration (glass, film and thickness), issued by an accredited laboratory, constitutes valid supporting documentation. To learn more about the differences between EN 12600 and EN 356 and how they apply to adhesive films, read the dedicated article on EN 12600 and EN 356 standards for safety films.
Applying EN 356 to a project: key questions
Before specifying a class, a professional should be able to answer the following questions:
- What level of risk has been estimated, based on the security plan or the insurer's requirements?
- Is the existing glazing compatible with a retrofit film, or is replacement required?
- Does the glass-and-film configuration have a valid EN 356 classification test report for this exact setup?
- Can the installer provide an installation certificate that meets the manufacturer's requirements?
The answers to these four questions form the core of the technical file. Explore the Solar Screen range of anti-burglary safety films to identify the references suited to each level of risk.