Are Glass Partitions Safe in High Traffic Areas and Offices

In this post, we’ll explore how toughened glass (otherwise known as safety glass) makes glass partitions safe, where they’re best used, and the testing standards that prove they’re up to the job. 

What is toughened (safety) glass? 

Toughened glass, also known as tempered glass, is specifically engineered to be more resistant to impact than ordinary annealed glass. It’s heat-treated so that when it breaks, it shatters into many small, relatively harmless granules rather than dangerous shards.  

This behaviour makes it particularly suited to environments where people may accidentally collide with the glass, such as in busy offices and public spaces.  

Why use toughened glass partitions in high-traffic offices? 

1. Impact resistance and safety: Building regulations (in the UK) require “safety glass” in certain “critical locations” to prevent injury from accidental impact. Toughened glass meets these needs by either resisting breakage or breaking in a way that minimises risk. 
2. Regulatory compliance: Under Part K of the UK Building Regulations (“Protection from Falling, Collision, and Impact”), safety glass is required in areas such as glazed doors, side panels, and low-level glazing. Furthermore, Part M demands visual contrast on glass (manifestation) so people can see the partition and avoid walking into it. 
3. Durability  and strength: Toughened glass is significantly stronger than standard glass; even up to five times stronger. This makes it less likely to crack or break under everyday stresses in a busy office. 
4. Fire considerations: In some office partition systems, fire-rated glass may be necessary. Glass partitioning regulation states that fire-resistant glass must comply with standards like BS 476-22 or BS EN 1364. 

Safety standards and impact tests for toughened glass 

To guarantee safety, partition glass needs to be rigorously tested. Here are some of the main standards: 

• BS EN 12150: This is the product standard for thermally toughened safety glass. 

• BS EN 12600: This is the pendulum impact test, which classifies glass by how it behaves under impact. 

• Heat-soak testing: Some toughened glass panels undergo a “heat soak” procedure (e.g. at 290 °C) to minimise the risk of spontaneous breakage from nickel sulphide inclusions. 

• Safety glass marking: After testing, safety glass must be clearly marked (manufacturer name, relevant standard, impact classification).  

Practical applications of toughened glass in offices 

Toughened glass partitions are widely used throughout high-traffic or shared office environments because they offer both durability and safety. In corridors and walkways, where people move quickly or turn corners without noticing obstacles, toughened glass reduces the risk of dangerous breakage.  

Meeting rooms and conference areas also benefit from full-height glass walls, which create a bright and open atmosphere while still complying with essential safety standards. Around glass doors and side panels, where accidental impact is more likely, safety glass is typically mandatory to protect staff and visitors.  

Reception areas and other high-footfall zones rely on the strength of toughened glass to withstand constant movement and minimise the chance of damage or injury, making it a practical and reliable choice for modern office layouts. 

How to maintain toughened safety glass in offices 

To maintain the safety and performance of toughened glass partitions, it is important to follow several best practices. Manifestation should always be applied at visible eye levels using stickers, frits, or vinyl, typically between 850–1000 mm and 1400–1600 mm, to ensure the glass is clearly identifiable and prevent accidental collisions.  

Regular inspections are also essential, as even toughened safety glass can develop chips, cracks, or other flaws over time that may compromise its strength. For larger installations or areas where breakage would pose a greater risk, heat-soaked panels offer added reliability by reducing the chance of spontaneous failure.  

Finally, please always work with certified glaziers who understand the relevant British Standards, such as BS EN 12150 and BS EN 12600, making sure that all glass is correctly specified, installed, and marked for compliance. 

Understanding the limitations of toughened safety glass 

Although toughened glass is highly safe, it is not completely infallible. Rarely, untreated toughened glass can break spontaneously due to nickel-sulphide inclusions if it has not been heat-soaked.  

When breakage does occur, the resulting shards are small and relatively harmless, but they still pose a risk, making correct installation and careful safety design essential.  

Cost is another factor to consider, as safety glass, particularly heat-soaked or fire-rated panels, are more expensive than standard glass, and should be accounted for in project budgets.  

Additionally, toughened glass has design limitations: it cannot be cut or drilled after tempering, so all modifications must be completed before the glass is processed. 

Considering safety glass partitions for your office? 

When specified and installed correctly, toughened glass partitions are a very safe choice for busy office environments. Thanks to rigorous standards like BS EN 12150 and BS EN 12600, and regulatory requirements (e.g., Part K of Building Regulations), you can achieve the aesthetic benefits of glass without compromising on safety. 

For those considering a glass partition system, working with Office Blinds & Glazing, which understands these standards, is crucial. That way, you ensure both compliance and peace of mind, your workspace stays bright, modern, and above all, safe. 

Get in touch via our online form or call us on 01706 711 397 and upgrade your office today.