When should you use fire-rated glass partitions?

Structural glass is specially toughened to deliver practical strength alongside visual appeal – but it isn’t designed to withstand fires. If you want to guarantee the safety of a building in an emergency, you must pay attention to regulations.

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While you can install glass partitions almost anywhere, certain applications will require glass that’s capable of resisting the conditions of a fire for much longer – known as fire-resistant or fire-rated glass partitions.

If you’re considering installing glass walls, glass doors, or a glass partition system in your building, then it’s essential to check the legal requirements for fire safety measures before you confirm the design and installation.

To ensure you understand the importance of fire-rated glass and when it’s necessary, this blog runs through explanations of what these partitions do, their advantages, and when and where they should be used.

So, keep reading for insights into using fire safety glass in UK buildings to keep occupants and visitors safe.

How do fire-resistant glass partitions work?

A sheet of regular toughened glass is several times stronger than float glass that hasn’t been tempered, but it’s still not strong enough to withstand the temperature of a fire – which can reach 800°C to 1,500°C or higher.

To ensure that glass is tough enough to slow the spread of fire if needed, it must be made from multiple layers of tempered glass, so it can keep flames, smoke, and heat at bay for long enough to allow successful evacuation.

The purpose of fire glass is to compartmentalise a fire for a specified amount of time, which is typically a minimum of 30 minutes, so people can escape the building and firefighters can tackle the blaze while it’s somewhat contained.

This is why fire-rated glass undergoes standardised testing to achieve a fire classification, which determines its resistance to extreme heat, smoke, and thermal shock (when cold water hitting hot glass can cause it to break).

How is fire-resistant glass rated?

In the UK, fire-rated glass is classified with letters and numbers. The letters represent resistance properties, while the numbers signify the duration in minutes that the glass should maintain these properties in a fire.

For example, E represents fire integrity and I represents insulation. E is the ability to hold back flames by not breaking in extreme heat, while I is the ability to prevent heat from transferring through the glass to the other side.

The minimum rating fire safety glass should have is E30 or EI30, which can prevent a fire from spreading for up to 30 minutes. The classification required for regulatory compliance will depend on the location and use of the glass.

At Glass Interiors, we supply fire-rated glass partitions with EI30 and EI60 classifications. EI60 offers protection against fire and heat for up to an hour, providing a greater level of safety.

What are the benefits of fire-rated glass?

This type of glazing is essential in commercial, industrial, and multi-residential buildings, which is why it’s so carefully regulated by UK building standards and British/EU safety standards.

Using fire glass partitions appropriately can be invaluable when it comes to protecting people inside the building and limiting property damage, providing the range of benefits below:

Fire compartmentalisation for increased safety

Rigorously tested to ensure their performance level, fire-resistant partitions and doors can contain the spread of flames and smoke for enough time to allow anyone in the vicinity to evacuate safely.

Compliance with building regulations and safety laws

Fire prevention and control measures are required by law, so building owners must comply with legal specifications to keep people safe and avoid penalties such as fines or custodial sentences.

Damage reduction to minimise downtime

If a fire breaks out, containing it to a smaller area for as long as possible will reduce the extent of the damage to your property, thereby reducing the repair costs and downtime until the space is fully usable again.

Modern design with customisation options

Fire safety compliance doesn’t have to mean compromising on architectural and interior design style, thanks to the aesthetic appeal and customisable nature of toughened glass partitions.

Longevity with little maintenance

Keeping glass clean is straightforward and it will be robust enough to last for many years. That said, if a fire occurs, the glass will need to be reevaluated and likely replaced to maintain the appropriate safety level.

When would you need fire-rated glass partitions?

As the main use of fire-rated glazing is to contain flames on one side for as long as possible, it’s designed to be installed in areas where there is a higher risk of fire and/or an escape route that needs to be protected in an emergency.

The specific types of glass needed are set out in the building regulations for fire safety and the locations in which to install them are stipulated in the building regulations for safety glass.

Mandatory applications may vary depending on the building layout and usage, but generally, most buildings with multiple storeys will need to incorporate fire-rated features, as there tend to be fewer escape routes on higher floors.

It’s crucial to consult and follow these regulatory guides to ensure you’re installing glass with the right specifications in the right places. So, if you want to use glass instead of standard walls or doors in settings that would require greater fire resistance, you can still do so, as long as it has the minimum fire rating.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of Fire Glass. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

Of course, it’s not just the fire glass doors or partitions themselves that need to meet the minimum requirements, but also the frames and seals used to install them, which must also be tested and rated.

Where can fire-rated glass be installed?

You can fit fire-rated glazing in a range of spaces to improve safety while maintaining modern design. Places where fire safety is a priority, either to create or uphold escape routes, include:

• Entrance and exit areas
• Hallways and stairwells
• Lobbies and atriums
• Internal windows and walls
• Skylights and glazed roofs
• Large open-plan floors

These spaces in public and private buildings can all benefit from fire-safe glass partitions, doors, and walls. They can be used in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings such as:

• Apartment complexes (e.g. new blocks of flats or converted structures)
• Retail and hospitality venues (e.g. shops and restaurants)
• Commercial buildings (e.g. office blocks or multi-use shopping centres)
• Leisure facilities (e.g. hotels, gyms, and spas)
• Healthcare premises (e.g. hospitals and clinics)
• Educational institutions (e.g. schools and universities)
• Research and manufacturing facilities (e.g. laboratories and factories)
• Storage and shipping depots (e.g. warehouses and distribution centres)
• Public sites (e.g. government buildings and museums)
• Transport hubs (e.g. train stations, bus stations, and airports)

In all of these settings, fire-rated glazing can help to compartmentalise fires to reduce the risk of harm to people and disruption to the building’s operations. This is especially important in high-rise buildings or large open spaces.

However, each setting may require different specifications to comply with safety laws, so it’s necessary to consult professionals when designing and installing fire-rated glass features.

Order bespoke fire-rated glass partitions

Now you know the ins and outs of installing fire-rated glass, you should have a better understanding of when it’s required to use this type of glazing and where to find legal guidance on its specifications.

If you’ve determined your requirements and are looking to install fire-rated glass partitions or doors, we can help. Here at Glass Interiors, we’re highly experienced in supplying and fitting beautiful, functional, and safe glazing for a range of settings.

We work with TG100 fire-rated glass, which has a maximum height of 3m for partitions and doors and a 30mm aluminium profile that can be powder-coated in RAL colours. This is available in 15mm Pyranova 30 or 18mm Pyranova 30 glass if you require an EI30 rating, or 23mm Pyranova 60 glass if you need an EI60 rating.

Fire safety is a priority for most architects and engineers. Government regulations also require commercial buildings to be completely fire safe. While ensuring fire-safety, you should not have to compromise with the aesthetics of your working space. The best method to keep your building both fire resistant and stylish is to install fire resistance glass.

What is Fire Resistant Glass? 

Fire-resistant glass, also known as fireproof glass or fire safety glass, is a specialized type of glass designed to withstand high temperatures and prevent the spread of fire and smoke. It is a critical component in the construction of commercial buildings as it acts as a barrier, helping to contain fires and protect occupants. 

Benefits of Fire Resistant Glass for Commercial Buildings 

The use of fire safety glass in commercial buildings offers several significant benefits: 

• Life Safety: The primary purpose of fire-resistant glass is to protect lives. It allows people inside a building to evacuate safely by maintaining visibility and preventing the spread of toxic smoke and flames. 
• Property Protection: Fire-resistant glass helps minimize property damage by containing fires within specific areas. This can reduce the overall cost of fire-related incidents. 
• Building Code Compliance: Many building codes and regulations require the use of fire-resistant glass in specific areas, such as exit routes, stairwells, and openings between fire compartments. Compliance with these codes is crucial for commercial buildings. 
• Insurance Cost Reduction: Installing fire-resistant glass may reduce insurance premiums, demonstrating a commitment to fire safety, which insurers often reward with lower rates. 
• Enhanced Aesthetics: Modern fire-resistant glass can be aesthetically pleasing, allowing architects to maintain design integrity while ensuring safety. 

Types of Fire-Resistant Glass 

While a wide range of fire-resistant glass options are available, like wired glass, ceramic glass, laminated glass, etc., each designed for specific applications, AIS Boropane stands the test of time. AIS Boropane is a monolithic, fire-rated safety glass that remains transparent even in the event of a fire. What sets it apart is the incorporation of boron trioxide, constituting 15% of its composition, which imparts superior features that make it an exceptional choice for fire protection. 

Features and Benefits of AIS Boropane 

• Low Coefficient of Thermal Expansion: AIS Boropane exhibits a low coefficient of thermal expansion. This property ensures that the glass maintains its structural integrity for longer, even under extreme heat conditions. 

• Reliability: When it comes to fire safety, reliability is non-negotiable. AIS Boropane boasts an impressive 120-minute integrity rating, making it a trustworthy choice for complete fire safety solutions. 
   

• Extra Safe: In the event of a fire, AIS Boropane restricts the passage of flames, smoke, and toxic gases. This not only enhances safety for building occupants but also aids firefighters in their efforts to contain the fire. 

• Aesthetic Appeal: Beyond its exceptional safety features, AIS Boropane offers clarity that surpasses extra-clear lime-float soda glass. This means you can have both safety and aesthetics in one package, making it ideal for various architectural applications. 

• Durability: Compared to normal annealed glass, AIS Boropane is three times stronger. This increased strength is due to its low alkaline content, which makes it highly durable and shatterproof. This reduces the risk of breakage during handling, transportation, and installation. 
   
• Resistance to Breakage: The absence of Ni-Sulphide particles in AIS Boropane eliminates the risk of spontaneous breakage, ensuring long-term reliability and safety. 

• High Resistance to Chemicals: This fire-rated safety glass is fire-resistant but also anti-corrosive and weatherproof, making it suitable for various applications in different environmental conditions. 
   
• Eco-Friendly: In an era where sustainability is a growing concern, AIS Boropane is an environmentally friendly option with a low carbon footprint. Choosing this glass enhances safety and contributes to a greener future. 

• Warranty: AIS Boropane comes with a 5-year standard warranty, giving you peace of mind and assurance of its quality and durability. 

How Fire Resistant Glass Improves Safety and Security 

Fire-resistant glass is a vital component of fire safety systems in commercial buildings. Here’s how it enhances safety and security: 

• Visibility: Fire-resistant glass allows for continued visibility, aiding in safe evacuation during a fire. This is particularly crucial in stairwells and corridors. 
• Containment: Fire-resistant glass acts as a barrier, preventing flames and smoke from spreading to other building areas. This containment is essential for the safety of building occupants and firefighters. 
• Heat Insulation: While fire-resistant glass can withstand high temperatures, it also insulates against heat, helping to maintain lower temperatures on the non-fire side, thus protecting people and property. 

​​Uses of Fire-Resistant Glass in Commercial Buildings 

• ​​​Server Rooms

Most industries nowadays depend heavily on computerized equipment. As a result, owners tend to dedicate one room to storing all computers and electronic equipment. These rooms, called server rooms, are perhaps the lifeblood of your business. Since computers and other heat-generating electronic equipment are placed in these rooms, there is a considerable risk of accidental fires. Even if a fire breaks out in some other part of your office space, it can damage the computers stored in server rooms. Any exposure to fire can cause the loss of vulnerable data on your computer. To protect your data from physical harm, install fire resistant glass, i.e., AIS Pyrobel, in your server rooms. AIS Pyrobel not only resists fire but also effectively prevents the fire from spreading.

• Fire-Safe Floors

Most modern commercial spaces have glass floors as a style element. In the event of a fire breakout, ordinary or even toughened glass can shatter easily. It might injure your employees and cause excessive loss of property. To make sure that your floors do not catch fire easily, install AIS Pyrobel. Having fire-resistant glass floors will prevent the fire from spreading to different stories and will give you more time to evacuate. 

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• ​​​​​​Glass Partitions

Glass partitions make most rooms look sleek, stylish, and open. An increasing number of commercial spaces are now equipped with floor-to-ceiling glass partitions instead of bulky brick or wooden walls. Regular glass does not provide any protection from fire or heat. Even if a small fire initiates in some part of your office, it can spread without resistance and cause glass partitions to shatter. Fire proof glass contains the damage in a small area and is not prone to breakage. On top of that, fire resistance glass like AIS Pyrobel is easier to maintain and reduces noise. 

• ​​​Stairs’ Entry and Exit Points

In most commercial buildings, staircases are used as fire-safety exits. Therefore, it is crucial to enclose the staircase using fire resistant glass. In the event of an accidental fire, these doors at the staircase entry and exit points will prevent the fire from spreading to the emergency exit. This will make your building safer, sleeker, and more accessible. 

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• ​​​​​​Doors and Windows

Sometimes, a fire might start outside your building, which will spread very quickly through regular glass windows, shattering them in the process. If you want to minimize the damage caused by external fires, install doors and windows with AIS Pyrobel. AIS Pyrobel prevents the spread of fire inside-out or outside-in, making your commercial space very safe. 

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• ​​​​​​Lift Enclosures

Almost all multi-story commercial buildings have lifts. Traditionally, metal, or wooden doors were considered appropriate lift enclosures. However, metal and wood are not significantly resistant to fire and heat. Since metal and wood are entirely opaque, you cannot monitor a fire breakout from inside or outside the lift. AIS Pyrobel comes in here to provide optimum fire resistance and complete transparency. Having fire resistant glass in a lift enclosure prevents damage to life and property while also adding sleekness to your office. 

​​​How is Fire Resistant Glass Made? 

Fire-resistant glass is a type of glass that can endure a high range of temperature differentials. It is usually made using soda lime, silica sand, and some added fire-resistant chemicals. 

Boric oxide is usually mixed with the molten glass before subjecting it to a furnace. It lowers the coefficient of thermal expansion of glass, making it resistant to heat shocks. Apart from using boric oxide, several other chemicals and manufacturing methods can produce fire-resistant glass. Aluminosilicate glass containing Aluminium oxide is known to reach about 800 degrees. Aluminosilicate glass is highly resistant to most chemicals. Fused Quartz and High Silica glass provide perhaps the highest degree of fire resistance. Some types can withstand temperatures as high as degrees.   

Several international ratings determine the resistivity of such glass. 

1. Class E: Such glass prevents fire, smoke, and flames and keeps the fire contained. 

2. Class EW: The level to which glass can limit heat transfer and contain a fire. 

3. Class EI: The ability of glass to prevent the transfer of fire and smoke.

Steps that Fire Resistant Glass Helps to Reduce Heat 

During a fire, fire-resistant glass is critical in reducing heat transmission. Here’s how it works: 

• Heat Absorption: Fire-resistant glass is designed to absorb and dissipate heat. This prevents the glass from shattering due to extreme temperatures, maintaining the barrier’s integrity. 
• Insulation: The multiple layers and interlayers in laminated fire-resistant glass act as insulation. This helps control the temperature on the non-fire side, making it more bearable for occupants and reducing the risk of a flashover. 
• Radiant Heat Control: Fire-resistant glass can also control the transmission of radiant heat, a major contributor to fire-related injuries. It helps protect individuals on the safe side of the glass from severe burns. 

​​Why AIS Pyrobel? 

AIS Pyrobel is a two-sided fire-resistant glass. At each step of fabrication, AIS Pyrobel undergoes multiple inspections. AIS takes the utmost care in designing and cutting fire-resistant glass for your commercial or domestic space. AIS Pyrobel has unique intumescent layers that provide added fire safety and complete transparency. Despite being fire safe, it offers free vision with minimal distortion. AIS Pyrobel comes in several types with different ratings. Our experts will help you choose the one most suitable for your commercial building. 

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