Vision panel

Vision panels are transparent or translucent sections built into doors or partitions. They play an important role in safety, accessibility, and design across buildings in the UK. They are widely used in workplaces, schools, hospitals, residential developments, and public buildings to improve visibility and compliance with building regulations.

A vision panel allows people to see through a door or wall, helping prevent accidents when doors are opened, particularly in corridors and areas with high foot traffic. This improves safety by reducing the risk of collision, especially where both sides of a door are in regular use. Vision panels also support security and safeguarding, allowing staff to monitor activity in rooms without needing to open the door.

From a fire safety perspective, vision panels are often fitted with fire-resisting glass that maintains the integrity and insulation of a fire-rated door. This enables visibility while ensuring the door continues to perform its role in containing fire and smoke. Glass used in these panels must be tested and certified in accordance with BS 476 or BS EN 1634, and installed following the door manufacturer’s specifications.

Fire safety risk assessment: small and medium places of assembly, published by HM government in 2006 and updated in 2024, defines a vision panel as: ‘A transparent panel in a wall or door of an inner room enabling the occupant to become aware of a fire in the access area during the early stages.’

Vision panels also contribute to inclusive design and compliance with Approved Document M (Access to and Use of Buildings). Panels positioned at appropriate heights help ensure visibility for all users, including wheelchair users and children, and provide visual contrast that aids people with visual impairments.

In modern construction, vision panels are integrated into both timber and metal doorsets, and can include laminated, toughened, or wired glass depending on the performance requirements. They are a small but vital component that combines safety, accessibility, and fire performance — reflecting the UK industry’s wider commitment to safe and user-centred building design.