Wire Frame glass
You have probably noticed the old wire frame glass in doorways or other areas. You might think they are much stronger than regular windows, Right?
Wire frame glass is much weaker than traditional glass. This special glass is used to obtain a UL listed fire rating.
Fire-Rated, Wired Glass
Georgian pattern wire frame glass
Diamond pattern wire frame glass
Square pattern wire frame glass
The wire glass in the picture has never been approved for use in a non-fire rated situations as it is not safety rated. Wire glass is labeled for fire-rated assemblies Code no longer allows the use of wire glass in any area that requires a safety rating which includes doors, transoms and sidelights along with some other safety rated areas.
News: wire frame glass
Tragic wired glass injury makes headlines yet again
In the story, a high school student pushed open a hallway door glazed with wired glass. His arm not only broke the glass, but penetrated it, causing severe injuries.
Wire Glass Windows – Where to Use & Where Not to Use
Wire glass is a common sight in schools, businesses, and hotels across the nation. It is manufactured primarily as a fire retardant, with wire mesh inlaid in the glass to prevent it from shattering and breaking out under stress or when exposed to high temperatures. With the window intact, the glass keeps the fire at bay, protecting those on the other side from the harmful effects of smoke and flame. Read more…
Closing the door on Wired Glass
Advocates For Safe Glass seeks changes in athletic facilities and schools Jarred Abel, a junior at the University of Oregon, was playing pickup basketball in a gym at the school's recreation center on Jan. 28, 2001, when he ran into a door. Abel's left hand punched through the door's wired-glass window and was severely lacerated (see photos), leading to multiple surgeries and permanent injuries. Read more….
It is not well known that the wire in the glass can actually make glass weaker and more susceptible to breaking. The wire is to hold the glass in place to obtain a fire rating. Glass still breaks easily leaving sharp glass shards that can hurt employees or other visitors. Wire frame glass is not used for intrusion, privacy or security solutions.
Wire frame glass used in a school
Injury sustained from wire glass.
NFRC
ClearSecure
Most people know that the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) rates the energy performance of windows, doors, and skylights. Many do not know that NFRC also independently certifies the performance of window film. These ratings are fair, accurate, and credible because the rating system is independent – manufacturers have no say over how their products are rated.