Yes, there are specific safety standards for outdoor furniture, with particular attention paid to glass tables due to potential hazards. The primary standard governing plastic and similar materials in outdoor furniture in North America is ANSI Z124.1. This standard, while not exclusively for glass, sets critical benchmarks for product durability, stability, and performance that indirectly enhance overall safety, including for tables incorporating glass elements.
For glass tables specifically, safety focuses heavily on the use of tempered (toughened) glass. Tempered glass is processed to be significantly stronger than regular annealed glass and is designed to crumble into small, granular pieces with less sharp edges if it breaks, reducing the risk of severe injury. Many manufacturers and retailers adhere to guidelines from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and similar bodies globally, which recommend or mandate the use of tempered glass for all outdoor furniture applications. Look for permanent markings or labels on the glass, often in a corner, indicating it is "Tempered" or "Safety Glass."
Additional safety considerations include the stability of the table's frame to prevent tipping, the security of the glass within the frame to resist lifting or shifting in wind, and the use of materials that can withstand UV exposure and temperature extremes without degrading. When purchasing an outdoor glass table, verifying compliance with ANSI standards for the overall structure and confirming the use of certified tempered glass are the most reliable steps to ensure a safe and durable product for your patio or garden.