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Article Abstract: Schools boards and administrators are seeking bullet-proof or bullet resistant films, terminology which has the potential to create confusion, misunderstanding and potentially, liability. The purpose of this article is to provide a quick review of the key items school boards, administrators, consultants will want to know when looking for window security laminates intended for securing entranceways and windows.
“We have listened to the wisdom of an old maxim, trust but verify”
– President Ronald Wilson Reagan
In response to high profile school shootings across the country, many school boards are looking to enhance the security of their entrances. Coupled with locks and access control systems, use of window security laminates and films to keep out intruders and attackers is becoming one of the core security technologies.
A growing number of companies are making claims about the ballistic and blast-resistant performance of their windows films. Almost without exception, these companies are buying and repackaging generic, untested films from manufacturers who have not designed their products for these applications and do not endorse their use for advanced security threats. This raises questions of product effectiveness, long-term performance, support and ultimately, liability.
Further, our research has found companies presenting non-compliant and in some cases, fraudulently procured test reports. All of this is creating market confusion, potential risk to students and potential liability for school boards and officials.
As a critical part of your due-diligence, you will want to investigate and confirm claims of performance and the competence and integrity of the companies offering their services.
The following are Nine Questions you will want to ask:
- What is meant by bullet proof or bullet resistant film? This is a critical question. Is the intent of the film to “stop” gunfire or is the intent of the film to keep glass in place when subjected to gunfire? If the intention is to stop or resist gunfire, a specific ballistic level should be clearly cited, preferably using the UL-752 ballistic standards. This is the most commonly referenced ballistic standard in North America.
- What product testing is backing the claims?
- Was this product testing done by an independent, accredited laboratory? Our investigation has found a growing number of companies which are issuing their own test reports while claiming they were performed by arms-length third parties.
- Does the test have an individual test report number which can be verified by the lab?
- Ask for a copy of the test reports and verify their authenticity by contacting the issuing laboratory. We are aware of certain companies falsely claiming to have test reports which they in fact do not have. This creates the potential for significant liability should there be a security event involving injury.
- Do the test reports meet the actual test standards? Our research has found companies promoting ballistic testing which was not conducted in compliance with the UL-752 test protocol. These tests are subsequently non-compliant.
- What is the source of the window film being proposed? Where was it made? Who was it made by? Does the manufacturer endorse it for use against ballistic and bomb blast threats and do they have test documentation verifying its efficacy? Does the manufacturer have this testing? Can you get access to the testing? Can you speak with their engineers.
- How long has the company you are speaking to been in business? It takes years and millions of dollars to undertake ballistic and specifically bomb blast testing. Has the company been in business long enough to actually do what they claim to have done?
- Can you speak with their engineers? Are their engineers knowledgeable and credible?
A reputable company should be able to quickly do several things. They should be able to answer your questions competently and clearly, helping you create design specifications for your security project which avoid ambiguity and confusion.
Further, they should be able to provide you with professionally written, credible and verifiably authentic product testing reports.
We encourage all school boards, administrators and consultants to take the extra time to conduct this due diligence to avoid potential future problems, risks and liability.
To discuss your window security project, contact us at info@usace.com or 888-607-0000 for your no-obligation consultation.
