When evaluating glass office partitions, check six things in order: laboratory-tested acoustic ratings (Rw), structural duty rating, glass and aluminium specifications, sustainability documentation, BIM support, and local service and after-sales capability. Product photos all look alike in a catalogue. What separates systems is whether each claim comes with a document behind it.
The six-point checklist
| Item | What to ask the supplier | What good looks like |
|---|---|---|
| Acoustic rating | Is the Rw value laboratory tested or estimated? Can you provide test evidence? | Tested to BS EN ISO 10140-2, calculated to ISO 717-1, with a traceable evidence reference |
| Structural duty | Which duty rating does the system meet? | Classified to BS5234-2, ranging from 0.36 to 1.50 kN/m |
| Materials | Aluminium gauge, glazing options and standard height? | Structural aluminium minimum 2.5mm, standard heights up to 3000mm, dry jointing with no silicone |
| Sustainability documents | Is there an EPD or green building rating? | EPD to EN 15804+A2, BREEAM A+ rating, SKA M09 compliance |
| BIM support | Are Revit components available, and to what level of detail? | Models to LOD 500 |
| Service and after-sales | Who handles survey, installation and future relocation? | Authorised local team, warranty and spare parts support |
Tested versus estimated: why it matters
Acoustic figures come in two kinds. Laboratory-tested values are measured in an acoustic test chamber to international standards. Estimated values are extrapolated from similar constructions. Both can show the same number in a catalogue, but only the first stands up at handover. The Optima systems we represent publish tested data with a Summary of Evidence reference for each figure: single glazed walls reach a tested Rw of 40dB, double glazed configurations 43dB, and double glazed doors 42dB. For background on how to read these numbers, see our guide to Rw values and laboratory test data.
Frequently asked questions
Can I treat the catalogue Rw value as the on-site result?
No. Rw describes the wall element under laboratory conditions. On site, ceilings, raised floors and service penetrations create flanking paths. That is exactly why you should start from a system with verified test data and design the junctions and interfaces properly from the outset.
Why does the duty rating matter?
A partition is never just a standing wall. Screens, glass whiteboards and shelving all end up mounted on it. The BS5234-2 classification, from 0.36 to 1.50 kN/m, lets you confirm at the planning stage that the wall will carry its intended use, instead of finding out after installation.
We have no BIM requirement. Should we still ask for the components?
Yes. Complete components and drawings show that the manufacturer has documented the product properly. Whether you later relocate, extend or hand over the fit-out, you will have accurate references to work from.
Next step
Browse the four system families and the Optima 117 Plus product page, or bring your floor plan and book a site survey with our planning team.