Final answer:
Glazing in railings may be considered a hazardous location if it poses a danger to individuals from human impact, and is typically subject to safety regulations such as the use of tempered or laminated glass. The designation of a hazardous location depends on local building codes and specific installation contexts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question of whether glazing in railings is considered a hazardous location depends on various factors such as building codes and the specific application of the glazing. Generally, glazing in areas where there is a risk of human impact, such as in railings, is subject to safety regulations to ensure that it does not pose a significant danger to individuals.
In many jurisdictions, there are building codes that require safety glazing materials in certain hazardous locations to reduce the injury risk in case of breakage. For instance, if the glazing is located in a position where it's susceptible to human impact, and thus may break and cause injury, it will be considered a hazardous location. This would include areas like stair railings, balustrades, or guardrails especially when positioned adjacent to walkways or near the floor.
Glazing in such locations typically must meet certain safety requirements, like being made of tempered or laminated glass that is less likely to shatter and cause injury. The International Building Code (IBC) provides guidelines on where safety glazing is necessary. Yet the determination of a 'hazardous location' still depends on the local building codes and the specific installation context.
So, while glazing in railings might not inherently be considered a hazardous location, it often is treated as such due to the potential for human impact and the accompanying risk of injury.