When choosing glass for a home or commercial property, safety is just as important as appearance. Whether you are upgrading windows, fitting internal glazing, or specifying glass for a commercial project, it is common to ask whether a glazing company supplies fire rated or safety glass panels and what the difference actually is.
At Clear Vision Glass, we are a local, family run glazing company supplying and installing specialist glass across Southampton, Frome, Bristol, Dorset and the wider South Coast. We work with homeowners, businesses and trade professionals alike, offering clear advice and dependable workmanship. In this guide, we explain fire rated glass and safety glass in plain terms, explore where each is used, and outline the standards that ensure your glazing is compliant and safe.
Contact usAlthough fire rated glass and safety glass are sometimes confused, they serve very different purposes and are tested to meet different requirements.
Fire rated glass is designed to resist fire and heat for a specified period of time. Its primary function is to slow the spread of flames and smoke, helping to protect escape routes and reduce structural damage during a fire.
Safety glass, on the other hand, is designed to reduce the risk of injury if the glass is broken. Rather than shattering into dangerous shards, it either breaks into small blunt pieces or remains bonded together.
Both types of glass are commonly used in modern glazing and window replacement projects, but choosing the correct one depends on location, usage and building regulations.
Get in TouchSafety glass is required wherever there is a higher risk of impact or human contact. It is commonly specified for doors, low level windows, bathrooms and large glazed areas.
The two most common forms of safety glass are toughened glass and laminated glass.
Toughened glass is heat treated to increase its strength. When broken, it shatters into small blunt fragments, reducing the likelihood of serious injury.
Laminated glass consists of two or more sheets of glass bonded together with a plastic interlayer. If broken, the glass remains held together, making it ideal for both safety and security.
Laminated glass is also frequently used for obscure glass window designs, acoustic glazing and enhanced security installations.
In residential properties, safety glass is most commonly required. This includes window replacement projects, glass installation for doors, bathrooms and large panes, as well as glass replacement where existing glazing no longer meets modern standards.
In commercial environments, both fire rated glass and safety glass may be required depending on the application. Offices, retail units, schools and healthcare buildings often incorporate fire rated glazing alongside safety glass to meet regulatory requirements.
Trade companies and contractors regularly work with Clear Vision Glass to source compliant glazing solutions, ensuring projects meet both safety expectations and building control approval.
All specialist glazing supplied by reputable glass suppliers must comply with recognised British and European standards.
Safety glass in the United Kingdom is typically manufactured and installed in accordance with BS EN 12150 for toughened glass and BS EN 14449 for laminated glass. These standards ensure the glass performs safely under impact.
Fire rated glass is tested to BS EN 1364 and BS EN 1634, with classifications defined under BS EN 13501. These tests measure how the glass performs in real fire conditions, including exposure to flames, heat and smoke.
Building Regulations Part B covers fire safety, while Part K addresses protection from falling and impact. Part L may also apply when glazing is part of an energy efficiency upgrade.
At Clear Vision Glass, we ensure all glazing supplied and installed meets the relevant standards and is appropriate for its intended use.
Obscure glass is a popular option for bathrooms, entrances and properties requiring privacy without sacrificing light. An obscure glass window can also be manufactured using laminated glass, combining privacy with enhanced safety.
For homeowners and businesses across Dorset and the South Coast, obscure glass is often chosen for both aesthetic and practical reasons, particularly in window replacement and glass installation projects.
We can advise on the most suitable obscure glass options based on location, privacy needs and safety requirements.
Book in TodayWhile fire rated and safety glass focus on protection, many customers also ask about energy efficiency. Modern glazing solutions often combine safety with thermal performance.
Double glazing remains the most common option, but triple glazing is sometimes considered for improved insulation. Triple glazing cost is higher than double glazing and is not always necessary, particularly in milder coastal climates such as the South Coast. However, in certain properties it can offer benefits.
We are always happy to provide honest advice on whether an upgrade is worthwhile.
Request a QuoteYes. We supply and install both fire rated glass and safety glass for residential and commercial applications.
Yes. Laminated glass is a form of safety glass and is commonly used where additional security or impact resistance is required.
In most homes, safety glass is sufficient. Fire rated glass is usually required only in specific locations or building types.
Yes. Obscure glass can be manufactured using toughened or laminated safety glass.
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