When specifying glass partition systems, write four things into the specification: acoustic requirements based on laboratory tests with evidence documents, the manufacturer Summary of Evidence test documentation (BS5234-2 duty ratings do not apply to frameless glazed partitioning), material and construction requirements, and BIM and sustainability documentation. Clauses written concretely at this stage save far more time than catching problems at shop-drawing review.
Why clauses must be verifiable
Wording like good acoustic performance or high-grade aluminium cannot be inspected against, and it gives bidders nothing to be compared on. Convert intent into verifiable standards and documents, and the design survives tendering, construction and handover intact.
Four recommended clause types
| Clause type | Suggested wording |
|---|---|
| Acoustic performance | Acoustic performance shall be laboratory tested to BS EN ISO 10140-2 with Rw calculated to ISO 717-1, supported by test evidence documents; minimum Rw per room type to be entered per project |
| Structural duty | Per the manufacturer specification, BS5234-2 duty classifications do not apply to frameless glazed partitioning; specify the fixing and loading requirements (screens, glass whiteboards) and require the manufacturer test evidence instead.36 to 1.50 kN/m), specified against intended mounted loads such as screens and glass whiteboards |
| Materials and construction | Structural aluminium sections not less than 2.5mm; system height requirement stated (standard heights up to 3000mm); dry-jointed construction with joints not reliant on silicone |
| BIM and sustainability | Revit components provided to LOD 500; EPD to EN 15804+A2 or equivalent; where green building assessment applies, BREEAM or SKA rating data to be provided |
All of the above sits within the documentation range of the British Optima systems we represent; tested data by range is summarised in the Optima systems overview.
Three interfaces to resolve at design stage
Most site problems with glass partitions happen at interfaces rather than in the wall itself: the junction with ceilings and raised floors, penetrations for mechanical and fire services, and the meeting point with joinery or drywall. Coordinate these three with the system supplier at drawing stage, before site improvisation costs finish quality and acoustic performance.
Frequently asked questions
Does naming a single brand create procurement issues?
Use an approved equivalent clause backed by verifiable performance requirements: write the tested reports, duty classification and documentation into the specification so that equivalence is established on paper rather than on promises. That protects both the designer and the client.
Do designers need to run their own acoustic calculations?
No. In practice the designer defines each room’s use and privacy requirement, the system supplier proposes configurations backed by tested data, and an acoustic consultant reviews where needed. The key is requiring test evidence for every proposed configuration.
What do the BIM components actually get used for?
Beyond clash detection, quantities and tender documentation, LOD 500 components feed the as-built model at handover, which matters most to clients with long-term facilities or asset management needs.
Next step
We regularly work alongside interior designers and architects from drawing stage, advising on specifications and interfaces. See our glass partition evaluation checklist, or book a site survey or request documentation.