If our understanding of the changes made to the regulation BS 6180;2011 is correct;

If the glass is protecting a change in level (drop) of 600mm or more A single toughened glass (normally a minimum of 10mm) can be used only if there is to be a handrail above, that is fitted independently from the glass (not on the glass). This is classed as an “infill panel” but they recommend that the maximum “span” (overall width) is best to not exceed 2100mm for 10mm toughened and 2400mm for 12mm toughened. The need for the independent handrail is that if the glass is broken and falls away, the handrail will remain intact to stop anyone falling over the edge.

Where you are not using a handrail, the recommendation now is that a toughened laminated glass be used (normally a minimum of 17.5mm thick – 2No 8mm toughened glasses laminated together with 1.5mm interlayer). This is classified as a “free standing barrier” and would normally be either drilled along the bottom edge and bolted on, or held along the bottom edge only in a suitable “clamping system” fitted along the floor (Q-Rail etc).

The idea of toughened laminated where there is no handrail is that if one leaf of the glass breaks, it adheres to the interlayer and there is still the other leaf of glass left in place to form a “barrier” It is the responsibility of the end user to ensure compliance to the current building regulations and if there is any doubt as to the suitability of glass you should consult your building control officer (B.C.O.) or or Pilkingtons technical department, a structural engineer or the makers of their glazing system.