Fire rated glass partitions are not just a versatile and aesthetic method of creating separate spaces within an open plan commercial environment; they are also an ingenious and lifesaving invention. They work to control or slow the spread of fire, protecting a building’s contents and construction and, most importantly, saving lives. Komfort has a continued commitment to providing specialised fire rated partitioning solutions. Our fire rated partitioning and glass fire screens meet very high standards of fire safety, whilst also offering a flexible and visually stunning design solution for dividing a commercial space. Read on to find out more about the benefits of fire rated glass partitions and how you can introduce them into your own commercial space.
Fire Regulations in the UK
There are a number of fire safety regulations in the UK that commercial businesses are required to adhere to by law; failure to do so is a serious criminal offence. These regulations include being equipped with fire extinguishers and having safety signs, emergency lighting, fire alarms, and fire doors installed on the premises. Businesses must carry out regular fire risk assessments, keep a written record of fire risk assessments, and file these documents safely. A local fire safety officer must be shown evidence of these assessments during their regular inspections. At Komfort, we prioritise safety above all else and always ensure our products meet or exceed the most stringent fire and safety regulations for commercial and industrial buildings.
An Explanation of Fire Ratings
Fire rated glass partitions are a form of passive fire protection, meaning measures which control or slow the spread of fire. They do this through the concept of compartmentation, a term which refers to subdividing a building with fire-resistant materials, such as fire-rated partitions, to control and slow the spread of a fire. The EI fire resistance rating of a glass partition is measured in the following two ways:
- The integrity of the element to hold back a fire, and for how long. This is the E in the rating.
- The ability of the element to hold back the heat generated by a fire, and for how long. This is the I in the rating.
The fire resistance rating is generally ranked in 30 minute intervals and is displayed as two numbers separated by a forward slash, such as 30/30. Komfort offers partition systems providing up to 120 minutes of fire resistance for partition walls and up to 90 minutes for doors.
A Design for Your Space
Fire rated glass partitions are not just an incredible safety feature for your commercial space. They also divide internal spaces to create separate rooms within a large area without compromising on the existing aesthetic of the space or losing natural lighting. They are an excellent way to create a bright and airy atmosphere and maintain the benefits of an open-plan space despite sectioning areas off for different purposes.
Fire rated glass partitions are highly versatile and can be customised considerably to perfectly suit your commercial property. They can be installed in both new construction projects and existing buildings. Ultimately, partitions are designed to match the overall aesthetic of your existing space, so you can be assured that your partition will blend seamlessly into your environment. Komfort has a range of different designs available and we are happy to discuss these options with you during a consultation.
Komfort is a design-led glass partitioning company that divides spaces by designing and manufacturing internal solid and glazed partitioning systems with integrated door sets. We are a quality UK partitioning manufacturer and we are proud of our long-standing relationships built on service, flexibility, and technical support. Our knowledgeable and experienced specialists deliver the architect’s vision through our extensive contractor network. Get in touch with our friendly team today to discuss designing and installing a new office partitioning system or to replace your existing system.
