Glass is beautiful, lets in natural light, and creates an airy feeling in buildings. But it has one big drawback: it can be nearly invisible, leading to accidents.
That’s where glass manifestation comes in, making glass surfaces clearly visible while still allowing for style and design.
Glass manifestation consists of markings – typically dots, lines, patterns, or even company logos – strategically placed on glass doors, walls, partitions, and windows. The goal is to make large expanses of glass clear, preventing people from accidentally walking into them.
Safety First: Reduces the risk of injuries from collisions with glass, a major workplace and public space hazard.
Legal Compliance: Fulfils requirements laid out in UK Building Regulations and the Workplace (Health, Safety, and Welfare) Regulations 1992.
Design Potential: Can be a discreet safety feature or a stylistic element, even incorporating company branding.
Privacy and Light: Frosted or decorative manifestations can offer some visual privacy while still letting light through.
Glass manifestation is required or strongly advised in many spaces:
• Office buildings: Glass partitions, conference room walls, entry doors
• Schools and universities: Large windows, classroom doors, gym dividing walls
• Shops and retail: Storefront windows, full-length mirrors, changing room doors
• Hospitals and clinics: Glass doors separating patient areas and corridors
• Public buildings: Libraries, community centres, etc.
Two key sources govern glass manifestation in the UK:
Building Regulations 2010 – Part M
This focuses on access and use of buildings, ensuring safe environments for all.
Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 – Regulation 14
This addresses safety measures for windows, doors, and transparent walls.
You can read the section relevant to glass manifestations at https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1992/3004/regulation/14/made
These regulations stipulate that glass in “critical locations” needs markings between certain heights for visibility.
What size should glass manifestations be to comply with legislation?
The Building Regulations advise that glass manifestation should be in the form of a logo or sign and at least 150mm high (repeated if on a glazed screen), or a decorative feature such as broken links or continuous bands, at least 50mm high.
At what height should a glass manifestation be to comply with legislation?
The markings need to be clearly defined on the glass at two levels; between 850mm – 1000mm, and between 1400mm – 1600mm above floor level.
Are there any exceptions to the glass manifestation legislation requirements?
There are some limited exemptions. Some narrow glazing, or glass with obvious framing, may not require manifestations.
It’s not just about avoiding fines. Ensuring your glass surfaces have proper manifestations demonstrates your commitment to a safe workplace or public space. It shows customers, employees, and visitors that you take their well-being seriously.
Impression Graphics and Installations specialises in stylish and effective glass manifestation designs.
We offer:
Don’t take chances with glass safety. Contact us today to transform your glass and protect the people using your space.
If you would like to book an initial free consultation, please complete the form and we will contact you to arrange a convenient date and time to look at your requirements and supply an initial quotation.
We are open Mon-Fri 8am – 5pm. If you would like to discuss your requirements please call 01252 364674.