Fire-rated glass acts as an intelligent barrier, maintaining structural integrity even at temperatures exceeding 1000°C. Unlike ordinary glass (which shatters within minutes at ~700°C), specialized laminated or ceramic fire glass uses intumescent interlayers that expand under heat, sealing gaps and blocking flames, smoke, and toxic gases for 60–120 minutes (certified as EI60/EI120). This containment prevents "flashover" scenarios in stairwells—a leading cause of evacuation failures.