Architects & Specifiers
NBS L20 Operable
Partition Specification
ModernGlide movable wall systems and operable partitions can be specified under NBS Chorus clause L20 — the standard NBS specification section for operable partitions and movable wall systems used to divide internal spaces while maintaining acoustic separation.
Access our full NBS Chorus product listing for specification clauses, acoustic performance data, BIM objects and product information for all MG Series operable partition systems.
NBS L20 Explained
What is NBS L20
Operable Partitions?
NBS L20 is the National Building Specification work section covering operable partitions — movable wall systems used to divide internal spaces while maintaining acoustic separation. It applies to all types of operable partition system including top hung movable walls, floor supported operable walls, sliding folding partitions and glazed operable partitions.
Architects and specifiers use NBS L20 clauses to specify the performance requirements, construction details, acoustic ratings, track systems and installation standards for movable wall systems in commercial, education and community buildings. ModernGlide products are available through NBS Chorus, making it straightforward to specify our operable partition systems under L20 clauses.
- Covers all operable partition types: top hung, floor supported, glazed and solid
- Requires acoustic performance (Rw) to be stated in the specification
- Specifies panel construction, facing materials and edge sealing requirements
- Addresses track systems, stacking arrangements and pocket configurations
- Applies to movable walls in offices, schools, conference facilities and community buildings
- ModernGlide products are available directly in NBS Chorus under L20
NBS Specification Keywords
Specification Guidance
Specifying Under NBS L20:
Key Clause Topics
When specifying operable partition systems under NBS L20, architects and specifiers need to address the following key topics. ModernGlide's technical team can assist with all aspects of the specification process.
Top Hung Operable Walls
NBS L20 accommodates top hung operable wall systems where all panel weight is suspended from an overhead structural track. No floor track is required, preserving floor finish continuity. All ModernGlide MG100, MG400, MG600, MG700 and MG100E systems are top hung and can be specified under this clause.
Floor Supported Operable Walls
For projects where structural support above is limited or unavailable, NBS L20 covers floor-supported operable wall systems. These transfer the primary load through the floor track, making them ideal where ceiling structure cannot support a suspended system. This applies to the ModernGlide MG200 hinged folding partition system.
Acoustic Performance Requirements
NBS L20 specification clauses require acoustic performance to be stated as a weighted sound reduction index (Rw). ModernGlide systems achieve Rw 33–59 dB. Specifiers should state the required Rw value in the clause, referencing the relevant product test certificate.
Panel Construction
L20 clauses cover panel core construction, facing materials, frame profiles and edge sealing. ModernGlide solid panels use acoustic infill cores with steel or aluminium frames and a wide choice of fabric, vinyl, veneer or paint finish facings.
Track Systems & Stacking
NBS L20 requires the track system type, stacking arrangement and pocket configuration to be specified. ModernGlide systems offer straight stacking, split stacking and recessed pocket options to suit a wide range of building layouts.
Glass & Solid Panel Options
NBS L20 covers both solid acoustic panels and glazed operable partitions. ModernGlide glazed systems (MG500, MG600, MG700, MG900) can be specified under L20 glazed operable partition clauses, with acoustic performance and glass specification stated in the clause.
Need Help Writing Your L20 Specification?
Our technical team can assist with NBS L20 clause preparation, acoustic performance data and product selection guidance for operable partition systems.
Products on NBS Chorus
ModernGlide Operable Partition Systems
Available Under NBS L20
All ModernGlide MG Series movable wall systems can be specified under NBS L20 operable partition clauses. Access our full NBS Chorus listing for specification clauses and product data.
Movable Acoustic Wall
NBS L20 – Operable Partitions
Hinged Folding Partitions
NBS L20 – Operable Partitions
Sliding Walls & Doors
NBS L20 – Operable Partitions
Flush Glazed Sliding Folding Partitions
NBS L20 – Operable Partitions (Glazed)
Glazed Operable Wall
NBS L20 – Operable Partitions (Glazed)
Glass Sliding Panels
NBS L20 – Operable Partitions (Glazed)
Crittall Glazed Partitions
NBS L20 – Operable Partitions (Glazed)
Fully Electric Movable Walls
NBS L20 – Operable Partitions (Automated)
FIS Accreditation
ModernGlide is accredited by the Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS), the UK's leading trade association for the finishes and interiors industry. FIS accreditation gives architects and specifiers confidence that our movable wall and operable partition installations meet the highest standards of quality and workmanship.
Learn More About FISTechnical Downloads
Download technical datasheets, CAD drawings, acoustic test certificates and installation guides for all MG Series operable partition systems. Full documentation is available to support NBS L20 specification and project submission requirements.
View Technical DownloadsReady to Specify?
Our Technical Team
Is Here to Help
Contact our technical team for NBS L20 specification support, bespoke specification clauses, acoustic performance guidance and project-specific documentation for movable wall and operable partition systems.