Fire-Rated Glass Partition Systems for Stairwell and Corridor Walls

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Fire-rated glass partition systems are framed glass walls tested to resist fire and smoke for a defined period, used to enclose stairwells and corridors while keeping them visible. Compliance depends on the tested fire rating of the complete assembly, including frame, glazing, seals and fixings, not just the glass alone. Always confirm the required rating with the building's fire engineer before ordering.

What a fire-rated glass partition is

A fire-rated glass partition is a wall or screen built from fire-resistant glazing set in a framing system that has been tested as a complete assembly. Its job is to slow the spread of fire and smoke between spaces, usually for a set period, while letting light and sightlines through.

The rating describes integrity and, where relevant, insulation. Integrity means the partition stays intact and does not let flames or smoke pass. Insulation means the surface facing away from the fire stays below a temperature limit. Not every product offers both, so the difference matters for the location you are designing.

Where these partitions are used

Stairwells and protected corridors are the most common locations. Glass partitions here keep escape routes visible, improve daylight in the building core, and let people see who is approaching in an emergency.

Stairwell enclosures and landing walls
Protected corridors and lobby separations
Vestibules between floors or fire compartments
Screens around service and riser areas

Each location may carry different requirements, so the same product is not automatically suitable for every wall.

Compliance points to verify

Start by asking the fire engineer or authority for the required rating in both integrity and insulation terms, and for the required duration. Then request the test report or certificate for the specific system proposed, and check that the tested configuration matches what will be built.

Required rating and duration for the location
Tested assembly that matches the actual frame and glazing
Maximum panel sizes and frame profiles covered by the test
Smoke sealing and perimeter details
Door leaves and hardware within the partition

Any change in size, profile or glazing can take the assembly outside its tested scope.

How the system is built and installed

Fire-rated glazing is sensitive to fixing, edge clearance and seals. The frame must be installed as tested, with fire-rated sealants or intumescent strips placed where the approved drawings call for them. Gaps around the perimeter are a common failure point, so they should be detailed and inspected before closing up.

At Techno Kol Uzi the process starts with an inquiry and photos, then an on-site measurement, a drawing and written specification, and client approval before production in our Tel Aviv factory. Installation follows the approved details, so the built wall matches the design your engineer reviewed.

Choosing between options

Not all fire-rated glass offers the same performance. Some products provide integrity only, while others add insulation, which generally means a higher level of protection. Frame material and profile also affect what is possible, so comparing a glass partition against a steel or aluminum alternative should be done against the same required rating.

Ask for documented performance for each option and compare them on the basis of the rating the building needs, rather than on appearance alone.

Maintenance and documentation

Keep the test certificates, approved drawings and installation records with the building file. Seals, glazing condition and door closers should be checked on a regular schedule, and any damage or modification should be assessed by a qualified person before it is repaired or changed.

Good records make inspections faster and help building committees show that the partitions were installed to the approved specification.

Frequently asked questions

Is fire-rated glass the same as tempered safety glass?

No. Tempered glass is designed to break safely into small pieces, while fire-rated glass is tested to resist fire and smoke for a set period. Fire-rated glazing is part of a tested assembly and is specified by rating.

Can I use any glass partition in a stairwell?

Not without verification. The stairwell needs a partition whose tested fire rating matches the building requirement, and the complete assembly must be installed as tested.

What is the difference between integrity and insulation?

Integrity means the partition stops flames and smoke passing through. Insulation means the side away from the fire stays below a temperature limit. Some systems provide only integrity.

Who decides the rating needed for my building?

The fire engineer and the relevant authority determine the required rating and duration based on the building's design and regulations. Confirm this before ordering any system.

Common mistakes to avoid

A common mistake is ordering glass by appearance and size without checking the tested rating of the full assembly. Changing frame profiles, panel sizes or seals after testing can also invalidate compliance.

Our recommendation

Send your fire engineer the proposed system and ask them to confirm the tested assembly covers your exact sizes, profiles and perimeter details before fabrication begins.

Summary

Fire-rated glass partitions protect stairwells and corridors while keeping them visible, but compliance depends on the tested rating of the complete assembly and correct installation.

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