Fire Rated Glass Partitions for Safety-Compliant Spaces

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A fire rated glass partition is a glazed wall or vitrine assembly tested to resist fire and smoke for a defined period, which is what allows glass to be used in escape routes and separation walls. Its rating depends on the glass type, the frame system and how it is fixed into the surrounding structure. Required ratings and details should always be confirmed with the project's fire engineer before manufacturing.

What fire rated glass actually means

Fire rated glass is designed to keep flames, hot gases and smoke from passing through an opening for a stated time, usually expressed in minutes of integrity and, where relevant, insulation. Standard glass cracks and falls out in a fire, so it cannot be used in a fire separation on its own. Fire rated products use specially formulated glass, often with interlayers, combined with a frame system that has been tested as a complete assembly.

Safety officers should read the test report for the whole assembly, not just the glass sheet.

Integrity and insulation: knowing the difference

Two properties matter most when reviewing a partition. Integrity means the barrier stays closed and does not let flames or smoke through. Insulation means the surface facing away from the fire stays below a temperature limit, which protects people on the safe side from radiant heat.

Integrity-only glazing suits some corridor and door-adjacent applications.
Integrity and insulation glazing is typically needed where radiant heat would endanger occupants.

The required classification is set by the building design and approval, not by the manufacturer.

Frames, fixings and the wall around the glass

A rated glass partition is only as good as its frame and its connection to the wall or slab. Steel and aluminum profiles must be part of the tested system, with the same gaskets, intumescent seals and glazing beads specified in the test. Fixings into masonry or concrete must follow the approved detail, and any gap around the perimeter must be sealed with the approved fire-stopping material.

Substituting a profile or gasket can void the classification even when the glass itself is correct.

How we build fire rated glass partitions

At Techno Kol Uzi, located at 37 Rival Street in Tel Aviv, we manufacture glass vitrines and partitions to measure, so the drawing reflects the actual opening. The process starts with your drawing or specification and the required rating, followed by an on-site measurement. We then prepare a written specification that lists profiles, glass make-up, gaskets and fixings for your review and approval before production.

Once approved, the unit is fabricated in our factory and installed according to the agreed detail.

Compliance checks before ordering

Before placing an order, collect the documents your project requires and check them against the proposed assembly. This reduces the risk of rework and failed inspections.

Required fire rating and classification from the design team
Test certificate for the complete glass and frame system
Drawings showing the wall connection and perimeter sealing
Confirmation that the specified hardware and gaskets match the test

Installation and ongoing inspection

Correct installation matters as much as the product. Installers should follow the approved detail, keep the seals continuous, and avoid modifications such as drilling through the glass or cutting the frame on site. Once the partition is in service, periodic inspection of seals, glazing beads and door closers helps keep the assembly performing as designed.

Record any repairs and use only components that match the original certified system.

Frequently asked questions

Can any glass be used as fire rated glass?

No. Only glass tested and classified as part of a complete fire-resistant assembly can be used where a fire rating is required. Ordinary or toughened glass is not a substitute.

How do I know which rating my partition needs?

The rating is set by the building design and the applicable fire approval for the space. Your fire engineer or the project's fire consultant should confirm the required classification.

Do fire rated partitions need special fixings?

Yes, fixings and perimeter sealing must follow the tested and approved detail. Non-approved fixings can reduce or void the rated performance.

Can you supply fire rated glass partitions made to measure?

We manufacture glass vitrines and partitions to measure at our Tel Aviv factory. Please share your drawings and the required rating so we can review the specification with you before production.

Common mistakes to avoid

A common mistake is accepting a glass certificate without checking the complete frame and wall connection that were tested. Substituting profiles, gaskets or fixings during fabrication or installation can silently invalidate an otherwise correct rating.

Our recommendation

Send the fire engineer's required classification and the test certificate for the full assembly to your supplier before fabrication starts, and have the perimeter detail signed off on the drawing.

Summary

Fire rated glass partitions must be specified and built as tested assemblies, with the correct rating, frame, seals and wall connection confirmed before production.

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