The New Zealand medical journal
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Injuries associated with architectural glass have become a matter of considerable concern in recent years. Despite this concern there has been no attempt to document either the extent of the problem in New Zealand or the circumstances under which these events occur. In this study, national injury mortality data for the period 1977-86 were examined and cases selected if the cause of death was attributable to an event involving architectural glass. ⋯ The mean length of stay in hospital was 3.3 days. Opportunities for injury prevention are discussed including visual and physical barriers, mandatory glazing standards and public education. Specific areas requiring further research are identified.