The increased use of glazing in buildings, together with building code requirements in the fire-rated glass sector have lead to the development of new types of fire resistant glasses and glass partitions. The trend for fire protection is definitely moving towards incorporating more glass in new ways leading to many new products available in addition to wired glass. Specially toughened glasses and clear laminated glasses have transformed the way architects think about fire protection. Modern technology permits the use of glass in the most aesthetically sensitive areas without compromising fire safety standards. Fire resistant glass is suitable for use in stairwells, computer rooms, evacuation routes in large office buildings, hospitals, shopping centres and other heat sensitive areas. The advantages include the restriction in the spread of flames, smoke and hot gases.
A GH Interior Glass, our glass partitions projects can include a wide range of fire resistant glass systems, classified by levels of integrity and insulation to contain the spread of flame, smoke and heat. From the latest silicone butt jointed technology, to the very highest performance timber and steel framed systems, offering from 30 mins to up to 2 hours (120 minutes) integrity and insulation. Integrity Fire protection relates to the amount of time the system has been proven and is required to maintain its integrity when it is faced with fire. Insulation Fire protection is the added measure where the partition also needs to insulate occupants of the building from the fire on the other side of the partition wall or glass screen.
GH Interior Glass offer a range of fire rated glass partition systems and fire screens to suit even the most stringent scenarios. For peace of mind, many glass partitioning systems don’t actually need to be structurally fire rated in accordance to UK building regulations. However, it is important to always check if in doubt. We are very experienced in the area of fire safety and can help take you through the process and then suggest suitable systems to ensure you are protected. We can provide systems with up to 120 minutes protection.
The classification of fire is split into two sections:
Fire Integrity – Ability of the glass partition to act as a barrier and stop the progress of the fire, smoke and toxic gases from one side of the partition to the other.
Fire Insulation – Ability of the glass partition to restrict the heat moving from one side of the wall to the other.
These classifications will be listed in terms of minutes for integrity and insulation, i.e. 30/30 would be 30 minutes integrity and 30 minutes insulation.
A Building Control Officer (BCO) has the ultimate say on the level required for an area, we can only help point you in the right direction. To give an indication, typical areas requiring some level of fire protection would be corridors and escape routes among others.
