Blog

It may look like a regular window, but these advanced fire resistive glazing systems are recognized in the code as transparent walls because of its ability to block smoke, flames and significantly limit the passage of dangerous radiant heat. This month, Architect’s Guide to Glass called exterior applications of fire rated glazing as the “the...

After SAFTI’s 38 years in the fire rated glazing industry, I still get asked, “what does ‘SAFTI’ in SAFTI FIRST mean?” I also get the question as to why I formed a separate company when O’Keeffe’s Incorporated was already an established company and brand in the architectural glazing community for our leadership in monumental skylight...

Transparent Fire Resistive Butt-Glazed Walls up to 2 hours SuperLite II-XLM is a fire resistive multi-laminate glass product that meets ASTM E-119/UL 263/NFPA 251 and CAN/ULC S101 up to 2 hours. Designers can now achieve truly transparent fire resistive glass walls up to 2 hours without vertical mullions or spacers using SuperLite II-XLM, the latest...

International glazing community celebrates innovation at the Glasstec show in Dusseldorf, 2016 The recently concluded Glasstec tradeshow in Dusseldorf, Germany is an event that I look forward to attending every 2 years. With 9 exhibition halls showcasing over 1,235 exhibitors from 52 countries and with over 40,000 visitors from 100 countries walking the show, it...

Between regular updates to fire rated code requirements in the IBC and several fire rated glazing product choices, choosing the correct and code approved fire rated glazing product can be confusing. This why over the years, we’ve come up with several articles, newsletters, technical bulletins and case studies on several topics ranging from IBC updates,...

Don’t Get Caught in the 60-minute Trap When it comes to fire rated glass, there is probably nothing more confusing than the 60-minute application – what product to use, how much of it, and what happens when sprinklers are present. While the temptation to use a one-size-fits-all fire rated product advertised as ‘unlimited’ with ratings...

New York City’s Lot Line Requirements Bulletin. Today’s buildings use glass extensively in the envelope for its ability to provide clear views and natural daylighting. Advances in glazing technology over the years has allowed designers to specify glazing systems that are also energy efficient and noise mitigating. When needed, the same glazing system can also...

End-of-year Summary for Fire Rated Glass and The Demand for Fire Rated Glass in 2015 Once again I have the fortunate opportunity to share my thoughts as to where we’ve been and where we’re going in the world of fire rated glass. 2015 was another very strong year for SAFTI FIRST. I hope it was...

SAFTI FIRST Gives Back to Community during the Holidays The holiday season is generally a time when individuals and companies ramp up their charitable giving. According to Steve MacLauglin at the Blackbaud index, “about 34% of all charitable giving is done in the last three months of the year. Of those donations, about 18% are...

Fire rated door assemblies play an important role in saving lives and minimizing property damage by providing safe egress and compartmentalizing smoke, flames and when required, dangerous radiant heat. Today’s fire rated doors frequently incorporate glazing to enable vision and transparency that maximize natural or shared lighting as well provide additional security to areas that...