Emergency Exit Requirements for Glass Partitions in Israel

Why glass partitions matter for emergency exits

Glass partitions and vitrines are popular because they let light flow through a space and keep rooms visually open. In a fire or evacuation scenario, however, every wall, door and divider along an escape route affects how people move. A partition that is poorly placed or poorly designed can narrow a corridor, hide an exit sign or create confusion about where the way out is.

For building owners and fire safety officers, the key question is not only how the glass looks but how it behaves within the evacuation plan of the whole floor.

General principles for glazed partitions near exits

Designers usually focus on a few basic points when glass is placed near an escape route:

• Escape routes must remain clear of obstacles and fixed furniture.
• Exit doors and their signs must be easy to see from the route.
• Glazing should be identifiable so people do not walk into it.
• Materials should suit the fire and impact conditions of the area.

These principles are a starting point. The applicable rules depend on the specific site and approval process.

Safety glass and visibility

When glass is used in partitions, the glass type matters. Toughened or laminated safety glass is commonly chosen for areas where people pass close by, because it reduces injury risk if it breaks. Visibility also matters: clear glass without markings can be mistaken for open space, so contrast strips or frosted bands at eye level are often considered.

Frame design and the position of handles and hinges should also allow a quick, intuitive exit where a door is part of the glass system.

Standards and approvals to check

Israeli projects are typically reviewed against national building and fire requirements, and the relevant guardrail and handrail standard, SI 1142, is often referenced for glazed balustrades and similar elements. Exact dimensions, loads and fire ratings are determined by the engineer and the authority reviewing the project, not by general guidance.

Before ordering, confirm which standards apply to your building, whether a fire safety approval is needed, and what documentation the authority expects.

Planning the layout step by step

A good approach is to plan the partition together with the evacuation plan from the start:

• Mark all escape routes and exit doors on the floor plan.
• Check the clear widths of corridors after the partition is in place.
• Confirm sight lines to exit signs.
• Have the fire safety engineer review the final drawing.

Taking these steps early avoids costly changes after installation.

Our role in the process

At Techno Kol Uzi, we work from a written specification and drawings that you can share with your engineer. The process starts with an inquiry and photos, followed by on-site measurement, a drawing and written specification, and your approval. Production takes place in our factory at 37 Rival Street, Tel Aviv, and installation follows. We build to measure, so the design can be adapted once the fire safety requirements are confirmed.

Frequently asked questions

Are glass partitions allowed next to emergency exits in Israel?

They can be, provided they do not obstruct the escape route and meet the requirements set for your building. The final decision rests with the fire safety engineer and the reviewing authority.

Does a glass partition need to be safety glass?

Safety glass is commonly used where people pass close to glazing, because it reduces injury risk. Your engineer will confirm the exact glass type needed for your location.

How can I make glass partitions easier to see?

Common approaches include contrast strips, frosted bands or markings at eye level. The best solution depends on the layout and lighting of the space.

Who should approve a glass partition design near an exit?

A qualified fire safety engineer should review the design, and the project should be checked against the applicable standards and approval process before installation.

Common mistakes to avoid

The most common mistake is planning the glass partition before checking the evacuation route, which can leave corridors too narrow or exit signs hidden. Another is assuming that clear glass is safe without any visual marking.

Our recommendation

Share your floor plan and evacuation routes with your fire safety engineer before finalizing any glass design, and ask for written confirmation of the requirements that apply to your building.

Summary

Glass partitions can be used near emergency exits when they keep escape routes clear, stay visible and meet the requirements confirmed by a qualified engineer.

Related guides

• Israeli Standard for Safety Glass in Buildings: An Overview
• Safety Glass Partitions for Schools and Kindergartens
• Marking and Identification of Safety Glass Panels
• Child-Proof Glass Display Cabinet Ideas for Family Homes
• Impact Resistance of Glass Partitions: Basic Principles
• Are Glass Vitrines Safe for Children at Home?
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