Fire-Rated Glass Partitions: Planning Requirements Explained

Why fire rating matters for glass divisions

Glass divisions in corridors, stairwells and shared areas are often part of a building's fire compartmentation. A standard glass partition may look identical to a rated one, but it will not hold back fire or smoke for the required time. Before anything is ordered, the building manager should know which walls and openings are designated as fire-separating elements in the approved plans.

Fire rated glass is tested as a complete assembly, including the frame, seals and glazing. Changing any one of these parts can change the rating, so the tested configuration matters as much as the glass itself.

Planning requirements to confirm first

Start by collecting the approved drawings and the fire engineer's notes. These usually identify the location of each partition, the required fire resistance period and whether smoke sealing is needed. Confirm whether the partition must also meet acoustic or impact requirements.

• Location and wall type it connects to
• Required fire resistance period
• Smoke and draught sealing requirements
• Door or panel openings within the partition
• Any local authority or building committee approvals

On-site measurement and survey

Accurate measurement is the foundation of a good fit. Measure the opening width and height at several points, since walls are rarely perfectly square or level. Note the floor finish, ceiling type and how the partition will connect to adjacent structures, as these affect the fixing method and the sealing detail.

Take photos of each location and mark access routes for delivery. Clear, labelled photos help the factory understand the site before a drawing is prepared.

Drawing and written specification

After measurement, a drawing is prepared showing the layout, frame profiles, glazing build-up, door positions and fixing details. A written specification accompanies the drawing and lists materials, fire rating, seals, finishes and hardware. This document is the reference for approval and for checking the finished product.

What to check before approving

Review that the dimensions match your measurements, the specified rating matches the approved plans, and the finish suits the surrounding space. Ask for changes now, as they are far easier to make before production.

Production and finishing in the factory

Once the client approves the drawing, the partition is produced in our workshop at Rival Street 37, Tel Aviv. Frames are cut and assembled to the approved specification, and fire-rated glazing and seals are fitted in the configuration that matches the tested assembly. Steel and aluminum components are finished with the agreed protective coating so they remain durable in service.

Because the rating depends on the complete assembly, components are not substituted without confirming with the fire engineer.

Installation and handover checks

Installation follows the approved fixing details. The team checks alignment, level and the continuity of seals at the junctions with walls, floors and ceilings. Gaps left at these junctions are a common cause of rating failure, so they receive particular attention.

At handover, confirm that the installed unit matches the approved drawing and that the documentation, including product information, is kept with the building records for future inspections.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a fire engineer to specify a fire rated glass partition?

Yes, the required fire resistance and configuration should be confirmed by the project's fire engineer or the approved plans. Your manufacturer can then build to that specification.

Can a standard glass partition be upgraded to fire rated?

Usually not, because a rated assembly must be tested as a complete system including frame, glazing and seals. A new tested unit is normally required.

How long does the process take from inquiry to installation?

Timing depends on the project size and approval steps, so it is best discussed directly once the drawings and site details are available. Early planning helps avoid delays.

What information should I send with an inquiry?

Send photos of each location, approximate dimensions, the fire rating required and any approved plan pages. This lets us prepare a useful first response.

Common mistakes to avoid

The most common error is ordering a partition without confirming the required fire rating, or substituting components that change the tested assembly. Leaving gaps at wall, floor and ceiling junctions can also undermine the rating.

Our recommendation

Confirm the fire rating and approved configuration with the fire engineer before measuring, then approve a written drawing that lists every component. Keep the product documentation with the building records.

Summary

Fire rated glass partitions must be planned against the approved fire requirements, measured accurately, and built and installed as a complete tested assembly. Confirming details early protects both compliance and schedule.

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