Silence 50

Acoustic privacy is an important consideration in today's office environment. Providing quiet areas or meeting places for private conversations is a key requirement for many clients.

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Noise levels are measured in decibel units (dB). On the decibel scale, the quietest possible audible sound (perceived to be near total silence ) is 0 dB. A sound 10 times more powerful is 10 dB; 100 times more powerful is 20dB; 1000 times more powerful is 30 dB and so on.

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Acoustic performance of partitions is measured in accordance with ISO 140 & ISO 717 and classified in terms of a weighted sound reduction index (Rw), which enables a comparison of different partition types. Laboratory tests are important, but the actual performance on site can vary considerably due to sound leakage around the partition through other elements of the building (Suspended ceilings, raised access floors, penetrations for ductwork etc).

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There are a number of aspects that contribute to the acoustic performance of the partition:

• Glass type & thickness - The thicker the glass, the higher the acoustic rating. Acoustic glass, which is constructed with a special interlayer, will also outperform standard glass types.
• Extrusion design & wall thickness - Another factor of acoustic performance that isn't immediately obvious, but is very important nonetheless.
• Seals - They play a critical role in aiding acoustic performance, which is why the patented SioSeal® twin seal sets our systems apart.
• Door type - Doors are typically rated lower than fixed partitions. The addition of drop-seals on pivot doors maximises their acoustic performance.

Our product specialists will work closely to ensure the acoustic performance of the installed partition meets the client's requirements.

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Part M Compliance

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The Building Regulations 2010:

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Part M requires designers to consider requirements such as force required to open and close doors, effective clear widths of door openings, design of door furniture etc. Our specification team will be pleased to assist as necessary to ensure 100% compliance.

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Glass Manifestation

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The Building Regulations 2000: Part M states that glass entrance doors and glass screens will satisfy requirement M1 or M2 if:

a) They are clearly defined with glass manifestation on the glass at two levels; between 850mm and 1000mm and between 1400mm and 1600mm above the floor, contrasting visually with the background seen through the glass (both inside and out) in all lighting conditions.

b) Manifestation takes the form of logo or sign at least 150mm high (repeated if on a glazed screen), or a decorative feature such as broken lines or continuous bands, at least 50mm high.

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SioSystems supply and install a wide range of compliant manifestation graphics, helping to significantly reduce the risk of occupants being unaware of the glazing and colliding with it.

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Toughened Glass

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Toughened glass, utilised in Silence partition systems, will break safely into small fragments when it is damaged or shattered.

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A standard float glass is first cut and processed, including drilling holes and polishing, before passing through a heat treatment process which results in the glass becoming 4 to 5 times stronger than it was in it's original state. All toughened glass used in our systems is manufactured in accordance with BS EN 12150.

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Fire Rating

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There are a number of situations where partitions will require to be Fire Rated, for example in areas that are designated as protected means of escape, areas of high fire risk etc.

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The requirements for fire resistant partitions, including glazed partitions, are set out in The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and the Building Regulations 2000: Approved Document B (Fire Safety) - Volume w - Buildings other than Dwelling houses (2006 Edition).

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Glazed partitions must give the same protection as the walls themselves and be tested to BS EN 1364-1: (1999), with test reports giving performance data for both integrity (against flames, smoke and hot gases) and thermal insulation for a specified length of time.

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Fire resistant and insulated glass must be used in conjunction with the framing and method of glazing with which it has been independently tested.

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Please contact us to discuss your specific requirements.

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Clients often prioritise privacy when choosing glazed partitions, to ensure confidential presentations are not shared with non-participants and to minimize visual distractions during meetings.
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There are a number of ways that visual privacy can be provided for glazed partitions, without compromising their functionality and aesthetics;

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Manifestation

We  offer a huge range of specialty films that can be applied to the glass to obscure vision without effecting the amount of natural light entering the room. Ranging from a simple frosted horizontal band to a reeded glass effect, or a bespoke design that communicates the company branding, our expert installers will ensure the highest quality finish. The addition of crittal bars often improves the integrity of the design intent.

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Switchable Glass

Switchable privacy glass turns from clear to opaque at the flick of a switch. An electric current adjusts the appearance of the glass depending on user needs. There are wide range of control options including wall switches, remote control, timers or any proprietary room control system.There is also an option of switchable blackout glass which blocks over 99% of light transmission when activated. The design possibilities are endless!

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Reeded Glass

The distorted makeup of this specialty glass provides a good level of visual privacy and provides a distinctive retro style, especially when combined with crittal bars to give a classy industrial look.

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Sheer Curtains

Curtains have become increasingly popular in office interiors in recent years. The 'Wave' style heading combined with an endless array of Flame Retardant fabrics will lift the look and feel of any space. Curtains also improve the acoustics of the room, both in terms of noise transfer and reducing reverberations.

Access control is an important feature that needs to be considered early in the design process. There are a number of options available.

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Electronic Access Control

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We work closely with access control specialists to ensure the doors are fabricated correctly, locks and strike plates are able to be fitted and concealed cable routes are provided within the frame. This collaboration is essential, as it prevents the aesthetics of the completed installation from being negatively impacted.

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Room Management Systems

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Silence Tech Panels can be installed to most partition systems without compromising their acoustic performance. Available in a wide range of styles and finishes, tech panels are used for room booking systems, lighting and air-conditioning controls, so all controls are readily accessible in one place, both inside and outside the room. Controls can be face fixed or recessed, and cut-outs for the latter are typically done in the factory to minimise on-site fabrication.

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