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Window Films for Safety and Security Applications

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Purpose:

Safety and security window films offer protection from a variety of events, from accidents and natural disasters, to break

and entry and bomb blasts. This course examines safety and security window film and attachment systems and

includes discussions on the history of films and film classifications, the functional benefits and applications of window

films and attachment systems, and the relevant testing standards and specifications.

Learning Objectives:

At the end of this program, participants will be able to:

• discuss window film classification and the difference between conventional and microlayered safety film construction

and its effect on window strength

• describe fenestration safety and security risks posed by tempered glass breakage, forced entry, bomb blasts and

industrial explosions, windstorms, and vandalism

• discuss relevant testing standards and how they apply to product specification, and

• use case studies to illustrate how safety and security window films can maintain the building’s aesthetics while

protecting occupants and owners against a variety of external threats.

Purpose and Learning Objectives






Introduction to Window Films

Safety and Security Window Film and Attachment Systems Benefits

• Safety Glazing (Human Impact)

• Spontaneous Glass Breakage

• Intrusion Protection

• Blast Mitigation

• Windstorm Mitigation

• Antigraffiti

• Film/Frame Attachment Systems

Specifications and FAQs

Applications and Case Studies

Course Summary and Resources

Contents






Introduction to Window Films






Window films have been employed in building projects for nearly 50 years to help solve a variety of needs. Originally

developed to reduce solar heat gain from entering through a window, the following timeline highlights the development

of window films and explains how the many functional aspects of films came to market.

In 1966, the original solar control window film patent was granted to a manufacturer. It was a highly reflective, silver

colored window film that is still very popular today. A few short years later, safety and security window film was

developed in response to terrorist bombings in Europe. Since then, there have been a number of significant innovations,

including the most recent releases of metal-free IR rejecting films for both interior, and now exterior, applications. The

window film industry also received global recognition when the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) agreed to

certify window films in 2009. Most recently, light redirecting films were introduced in 2014. These films are designed to

redirect light hitting transom windows so that natural light can be driven deeper into the building, helping to reduce the

need for electrical lighting.

A History of Window Films






Timeline of Window Films

1966 • original sun control window film patent

1969 • safety/security window films developed in response to terrorist bombings in Europe

1979 • low emissivity (Low-E) films are introduced

1984 • abrasion-resistant coatings for durability

1995 • microlayered tear-resistant security window films

2002 • color-stable film process patented

2003 • low interior reflectivity films introduced

2006 • virtually clear, metal-free IR blocking films

2009 • NFRC certification for window films

2011 • virtually clear, metal-free IR blocking films for outdoor use

2014 • daylight redirecting film introduced

2016 • new low emissivity (Low-E) film with increased insulated performance






The application of window film can provide solutions to many areas of concern within a building, be it high energy costs,

occupant comfort, fading, safety and security of people and property, and improved building aesthetics. Window films

are a passive system—they function on their own.

Today, window films are classified into the following three categories:

Because windows and glass are everywhere, opportunities for window films to provide solutions are also everywhere: in

commercial applications, retail storefronts, residential homes, and government buildings.

Film Classifications

Safety and Security Films

• Blast and Windstorm Mitigation

• Seismic Glass Breakage Mitigation

• Theft Prevention

• Antigraffiti

Energy (Sun) Control Films

• Building Energy Savings

• Occupant Comfort

• Building Heat Load Reduction

• Fade Protection for Furnishings/Coverings

• Privacy and Aesthetics

Energy / Safety and Security Films

• All Mentioned Benefits Combined






Advantages of Window Films

Safety and security window films are typically sold to upgrade the performance of

existing windows in existing buildings. Window films are typically significantly

more cost effective than replacing the windows themselves. Not only is the film

itself less expensive than purchasing an entire window, you do not need to

remove an entire window or deal with the safety concerns of a hole in the side of

the building. The disruption to the tenants is less, and you do not need to deal

with eliminating the waste of the old window.

Window films are also used on sites requiring historic preservation. Clear safety

and security window films do not change the look of the windows, yet they can

reject as much as 99.9% of the UV rays, which are the leading cause of fading.

Advantages of Window Films

• Much less expensive than replacing windows

• Installation is much less disruptive to operations and occupants

• No glass or frames sent to landfill

• Rejects up to 99.9% UV rays

• Maintain existing glass (historic preservation)






How Do Safety and Security Films and Attachments Work?

These films do not stop the glass from breaking; in fact, when the glass

breaks, safety and security films perform their best. Safety and security films

hold the glass in place and add significant penetration resistance once the

glass is broken. You might ask, why does that matter?—the window is broken.

Consider the fact that the glass itself may not be the significant cost factor

here. Suppose a piece of glass breaks on the 20th story of a high-rise building

and falls to the street; that is a significant liability. Or perhaps a storm occurs

and now water and debris are entering through the building shell, destroying

the interior of the building. Or perhaps a thief tries to break in, but rather than

enter through the glass, he is forced to attack the window for minutes trying to

get in.

Safety and security window films and attachments aid in occupant protection,

as well as help to minimize downtime costs.






Conventional Safety Film Construction

The conventional safety film is a single or double layer

polyester film, with a thick pressure sensitive adhesive on

one side of the film, and a scratch-resistant hardcoat on

the other. These films will perform better as the thickness

increases. The most common thicknesses for conventional

safety films are 7- and 8-mil products. These films can be

as thick as 14 mils. Typically, safety films are applied on

the interior of the glass; however, some manufacturers

have films that can also be applied on the exterior.






Microlayered Safety and Security Film Construction

You can obtain better performance with less thickness by

utilizing microlayered safety and security films. A

microlayered film differs from conventional films by using

tens of layers of material in the same thickness as one

layer of a conventional film. Microlayered films alternate

between a “stiff” layer and a “gummy” layer, in order to

obtain added performance. The alternating layers not only

add strength to the window but also add tear resistance to

the film, giving that much additional safety and security to

the window.






Safety and security window films are

typically sold to upgrade the

performance of existing windows in

existing buildings. What are the

advantages of this approach?

REVIEW QUESTION






• Much less expensive than replacing

windows

• Installation is much less disruptive

to operations and occupants

• No glass or frames sent to landfill

• Rejects up to 99.9% UV rays

• Maintain existing glass (historic

preservation)

ANSWER






Safety and Security Window Film and

Attachment Systems Benefits






Benefits

Let’s examine the benefits that safety and security window films and attachments

can provide. Safety and security window films and attachments: can help bring

glass up to safety glazing code; reduce the risk of falling glass from tempered

glass that spontaneously breaks; help to provide enhanced intrusion protection

against thieves and violent criminals; provide added safety against blast

mitigation, both from bombs as well as industrial explosions; help to preserve the

building envelope in the event of a windstorm; and provide a sacrificial layer to

protect against vandals.

Benefits of Window Films

• Safety Glazing (Human Impact)





• Antigraffiti






Safety Glazing: Human Impact

Safety glazing is often thought of as tempered or laminated glass. Tempered

glass is stronger than standard annealed glass, and when it breaks, it shatters

into thousands of tiny cubes (as seen on your car side windows in a crash) as

opposed to large sharp shards.

A piece of glass is considered safety glazing after passing either ANSI Z97.1,

“Standard Safety Glazing Materials Used in Buildings - Safety Performance

Specifications and Methods of Test” or 16 CFR CPSC 1201, “Safety Standard

for Architectural Glazing Materials.” These tests are conducted by dropping a

100-lb. bag into the glass from a distance of 1.5 to 4 feet. Safety glazing is

required by code in certain areas—typically glass doors, sidelites, shower

doors, patio doors, sliding glass doors, balcony glass, glass near stairs, or any

glass within 18" of the floor.

Alternate Channel Mounting Holes.

Main Frame.

Alternate Frame

Base.

Sub-Frame.

Impactor.

1: Impact Test Structure.






Safety Glazing: Human Impact

Safety and security window films are often used to upgrade existing glass in a

building to safety glazing, to upgrade historic buildings, and buildings where

the glass was incorrectly installed. This is typically far less expensive than

replacing the existing window with safety glass.

Some manufacturers have tested their safety and security window films with

third-party testing agencies to the safety glazing standards. Typically, a

minimum of a 6-mil microlayered film, or an 8-mil conventional film is required

to pass this test. The video shown here is an example of an ANSI Z97.1 test.

Codes may vary by state and county; obtain third-party testing from the film

manufacturer and consult with a local code official.

Click on the image to view the video on YouTube (no audio).




https://youtu.be/S47g8kVbGso



Spontaneous glass breakage, or SGB, is a phenomenon that occurs only in tempered glass. In order to create

tempered glass, a glass manufacturer will quench the super heated glass in a very quick fashion, which increases the

break strength of the glass. This process has the potential to trap nickel sulfide inclusions within the glass, and over

time, these inclusions may expand, causing the glass to shatter into thousands of tiny pieces.

Some glass manufacturers have additional heat treating processes that can help reduce the risk of spontaneous glass

breakage, but it may still be a risk. When spontaneous glass breakage occurs, there is a risk of all of the glass falling

out of the frame, leaving a hole in the building shell—which poses safety and security risks, such as glass raining down

numerous stories.

Safety Glazing: Spontaneous Glass Breakage







Safety window films and attachment systems are used to hold the glass in place after a

spontaneous breakage.

Rather than the glass raining down, or leaving an opening in the side of the building, the glass

stays in the frame:

• helping to increase protection for people, property, and possessions, and

• allowing for time to replace the glass.







There are two primary considerations when considering safety window

films and attachment systems for spontaneous glass breakage.

First is that this is a nonimpact situation, meaning nothing has actually

physically struck the glass. This means that a high-performing thick film

is not required.

The second consideration is that the film must be anchored to the frame

to ensure that when the event happens, the glass will stay within the

framing system. Note that a lot of tempered glass is installed on

balconies, or is the exterior pane of a double pane unit. In these cases,

an exterior, weatherable safety film will be required.






Security Glazing: Intrusion Protection

One of the most common reasons for security film to be installed on a residence

or commercial property is for intrusion protection. Windows and glass doors are

one of the weakest points on the building envelope and are often targeted as an

entry point for criminals. In 2012, over $15 billion was lost due to property

related crimes in the U.S., and unfortunately, fortified glass is often too

expensive when considering security upgrades. Bars on the windows simply

have an aesthetic that many homes and retail outlets are unwilling to utilize.

In addition to theft related crimes, mass shootings have been increasing over

the past few years, and on a number of occasions, the attackers have shot the

glass and walked right through a hole in the side of the building, obtaining

access to the interior in seconds.

2012 U.S. Crime Statistics*

Property Crimes Violent Crimes

Occur every 3.5

seconds

Occur every 26

seconds

Nearly 9 million

occurrences

Over 1.2 million

occurrences

*According to the Uniform Crime Report, “Crime in the United

States,” 2012, completed by the U.S. FBI.

Note: Window films are not bulletproof; they provide intrusion

protection.






Security Glazing: Intrusion Protection

Security window films and attachments are used to help deter intruders and would-be thieves from entering into a

space. In this video, watch an intruder take two minutes longer to get through a window fortified with a security window

film. This added time is time the intruder is not hurting people, or stealing, and with every passing second, the police

have more time to respond, and the intruder has the opportunity to give up. Please note, window films are not

bulletproof; they provide intrusion protection, helping to give you more time to prepare and helping to keep criminals out.

Click on the image to view

the video on YouTube

(includes audio).




https://youtu.be/QTPc5cb0itY



Safety and Security Glazing: Blast Mitigation

Glass shards are one of the leading causes of fatalities in the event of an explosion. When

an explosion occurs, whether it is from a bomb or a manufacturing plant, an intense shock

wave explodes glass inward, and the glass becomes deadly sharp missiles. The U.S.

government has created a test standard that measures the effectiveness of fortified

windows against blasts: GSA-TS01-2003, “U.S. General Services Administration Standard

Test Method for Glazing and Window Systems Subject to Dynamic Overpressure

Loadings.” ASTM F1642, “Standard Test Method for Glazing and Glazing Systems Subject

to Airblast Loading” is another relevant testing standard.

Most government facilities (government/military/embassy buildings) actually require some

form of blast mitigation on windows, whether they own the space or are leasing it. In many

cases, buildings around government facilities also opt for blast mitigation. Other buildings

that may consider blast mitigation are financial centers, controversial businesses,

international corporations, or manufacturing plants.






Safety and Security Glazing: Blast Mitigation

Window films can be third-party tested to GSA blast standards. The blast test is

conducted by setting off a bomb near a building structure that contains glass.

The test measures how far into the building space glass shards penetrate. Based

on how far the glass comes into the space, the window will receive a one through

five rating. Most specifications require a minimum of a 3B rating. There are a few

different sized blasts, so when comparing options, make sure to ask what the

pressure and blast impulse was that the 3B rating was achieved under. A few

window film manufacturers have tested their films to this bomb blast standard,

and achieved the required 3B rating.

All films are not created equal, and specifying a thickness is not enough. Be sure

to ask the manufacturer for their blast reports.






Blast Mitigation: High-Explosive Blast Tests

Here’s an example of the effect of a blast on a window

without window film protection. The test involved a quarter-

inch annealed glass, and a 4-psi peak blast pressure with

28-psi-msec impulse. The result is a GSA security

performance level 5 (low protection, high hazard), or what

may be termed “catastrophic failure.” This gives a clear idea

of the potential hazards with unprotected glass.





https://youtu.be/fWBT9osmWVw



Blast Mitigation: High-Explosive Blast Tests

And, here’s the effect of the same level of blast pressure on

an identical sample of glass. In fact, this window was next

to the last one just shown. The window film holds the

shattered glass together even under these extreme

conditions. The window film used is a microlayered safety

film providing a GSA security performance level 3B (high

protection, low hazard). A very impressive improvement!





https://youtu.be/redx4gwQZWw



Safety Glazing: Windstorm Mitigation

Windows are also rated for windstorm mitigation. The windstorm industry standard

tests are ASTM E1886, “Standard Test Method for Performance of Exterior

Windows, Curtain Walls, Doors, and Impact Protective Systems Impacted by

Missile(s) and Exposed to Cyclic Pressure Differentials” and ASTM E1996,

“Standard Specification for Performance of Exterior Windows, Curtain Walls, Doors,

and Impact Protective Systems Impacted by Windborne Debris in Hurricanes.”

Projectiles are shot at the window, and then the window is put through hundreds of

positive and negative pressure cycles, simulating the effect of a windstorm. One of

the biggest issues to deal with after a windstorm is the damage done by the

elements that penetrate the glazing. If the glass can remain in the frame, fewer

elements will be able to penetrate the building shell, helping you to bring the

property back up to operational sooner.






As well as blast protection, safety and security window films can help provide a measure of increased windstorm

protection against windborne debris and rain damage, and once in place, they are ready 24 hours a day, seven days a

week. FM Global, one of the largest commercial property insurance companies, approves window films from some

manufacturers for windstorm protection.

Safety and security window films can be an effective way of fortifying glazed openings against impact by windborne

debris. Many films have been tested according to the prevailing test standards for impact resistance. Microlayered

safety films have been tested up to 70 pounds per sq. ft. design pressure (or 165-mph winds). A window system must

pass both the missile impact and the pressure cycle tests to be considered for windstorm.

State and local regulations vary; consult with your local building official to determine applicability.








This video shows the response of a glazing system with

safety and security window film when impacted by a

“Medium Large Missile Level C,” which is a 4-foot two-by-

four traveling at 40 feet per second. When considering a

safety and security film for windstorm, an attachment

system is always required.

Click on the image to view the video on YouTube (includes audio).




https://youtu.be/YwAFJoOh0hk



Security Glazing: Antigraffiti

An antigraffiti window film is a sacrificial film layer applied over the glass, either on

the interior or the exterior, to reduce expenditures and operating time for replacing

glass. The film can be single layer and be reinstalled after each tagging, or have

as many as six layers, removing one layer after each event.

When a vandal tries to scratch, gouge, acid etch, or tag the glass, they are in fact

tagging a film that can easily be removed and replaced. If the vandalism is

removed sooner rather than later, this often discourages repeat offenses, and it

also preserves the image of the shop or advertisement. Typical areas where

antigraffiti films are used are retail, schools, bathroom stalls and mirrors, banners

and advertisements, mass transportation, and metro transit stops.






Safety and Security Glazing: Attachment Systems

Safety and security window films hold the glass together in the event

of a break; however, what holds the glass in the frame? The answer

is an attachment system. Attachment systems are designed to

adhere to the film that is applied to the glass as well as to the frame

of the window. These systems are designed to mimic the look of an

existing window gasket, so as not to look aesthetically unacceptable.

There are two main types of attachment systems used today; one is

a structural wet glaze, and the other is a rubber gasket with a very

high bond (VHB) adhesive, often referred to as a profile system.

IPA = Impact Protection Adhesive.

IPA 3/8" min on film—WINDSTORM

IPA 1/2"—for BLAST mitigation

IPA 3/8" does not require the

glazing stop to be trimmed.

IPA 3/8" min on frame (excluding

gasket)—WINDSTORM.

IPA 1/2"—for BLAST mitigation.






Safety and Security Glazing: Attachment Systems

Attachment systems are recommended for every safety and security window

film installation, as an attachment system will always provide an added level of

security. However, there are frame configurations that are not conducive to an

attachment system, so it is not always possible to use one. In these cases,

adding a safety film alone will certainly still add a measure of safety and

security performance.

Another important point to note is that the adhesive bond between the

attachment system and the frame is critical. It is always recommended to work

with a manufacturer who makes both the film and the attachment system to

ensure a quality bond between the film and the attachment—to ensure the

required safety measures are met.

Safety CategoryRequired/Highly

Recommended

All Tempered Glass X

Spontaneous Glass

BreakageX

Intrusion Protection X

Bomb Blast

MitigationX

Windstorm Mitigation X

Human Impact

Antigraffiti

While attachment systems are recommended

for every application, there are situations

where they are required, or very highly

recommended.

See chart.






List six benefits of safety and

security window films and

attachments.

REVIEW QUESTION






• Safety Glazing (Human

Impact)





• Antigraffiti

ANSWER






Attachment systems are

recommended for every

application, but there are situations

where they are required or very

highly recommended. Identify

these situations in the table.

REVIEW QUESTION


Recommended

All Tempered Glass

Spontaneous Glass

Breakage

Intrusion Protection

Bomb Blast Mitigation

Windstorm Mitigation

Human Impact

Antigraffiti






Attachment systems are

recommended for every

application, but there are situations

where they are required or very

highly recommended. Identify

these situations in the table.

ANSWER


Recommended

All Tempered Glass X

Spontaneous Glass

BreakageX

Intrusion Protection X

Bomb Blast Mitigation X

Windstorm Mitigation X

Human Impact

Antigraffiti






Specifications and FAQs






A common practice in the industry is to specify a safety and security film via prescriptive specs, such as a 7-mil film with

a certain tensile strength, and a certain yield strength. However, unless you are specifying an antigraffiti film, this is not

a recommended approach.

The safety and security film performance is highly dependent on how it is manufactured, as well as the adhesive that is

used on the film. Therefore, it is always recommended to specify a safety film based on the relevant third-party testing

that we have discussed thus far. For example, rather than specify a 7-mil safety film and wet glaze attachment for bomb

blast, you should specify a security film and attachment system that has met a 3B rating at a specific blast load. This will

ensure that the manufacturer you are working with has done performance based testing.

Safety and security films are a system, and the interactions between the adhesive, hardcoat, base film, etc. are all

relevant when determining whether the product will perform as required.

Prescriptive vs. Performance Specifications






Specifying window film with CSI specs is easy. The industry has created easy-to-read and easy-to-understand

specifications that allow you to precisely select all the functional and aesthetic options you require. You can also contact

your preferred manufacturer to obtain base specifications.

For example, in terms of performance, items addressed in a specification will include:

1. Physical/Mechanical Performance Properties

a. Film Color

b. Thickness

c. Tensile Strength (ASTM D882)

d. Break Strength (ASTM D882) (Per Inch Width)

e. Tear Resistance (ASTM D1004)

f. Puncture Propagation Tear (ASTM D2582)

g. Young’s Modulus (ASTM D882)

2. Uniformity

3. Variation in Total Transmission Across the Width

CSI Specifications






4. Identification: Labeled as to Manufacturer listed in this Section.

5. Solar Performance Properties

a. Visible Light Transmission (ASTM E903)

b. Visible Reflection (ASTM E903)

c. Ultraviolet Transmission (ASTM E903)

d. Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (ASTM E903)

6. Impact Resistance for Safety Glazing

a. Safety Rating (CPSC 16 CFR, Part 1201)

b. Safety Rating (ANSI Z97.1)

7. Windstorm Protection

8. Bomb Blast Mitigation: Independent testing with results from high explosive arena blast testing.

CSI Specifications






Warranty Information

Proper care and maintenance is important to keep film looking

good and warranties valid. Window film warranties for

commercial and retail applications are usually for ten years or

longer, and for residential, many are limited lifetime warranties or

as long as the warranty holder owns the home. There are many

examples of projects where window films have lasted well over

20 years.






Care and Maintenance

The care and maintenance of window films is simple. The film may

be washed 30 days after installation with a common window

cleaning solution that contains ammonia, although you should

verify the acceptable cleaning solutions with the manufacturer.

Synthetic sponges or soft cloths are recommended for washing

the film, and a soft squeegee is recommended for removal of

cleaning solution from the film. Never use bristle brushes or

abrasive cleaners or cleaning materials.






Please note, we have spoken about how safety and security films have been tested in accordance with industry

standards that may relate to building codes in your county or state. Building codes and enforcement vary by county, and

compliance with local codes can only be granted by a local code official.

Window film manufacturers can provide third-party industry standard testing results to the code officials, but the final

approval on compliance will rely on the building code official. Work with your local authorized window film dealer to

obtain the testing data required for your project.

Meeting Code






Will window films break my windows?

• Millions of square feet of window film are installed every year, and these films have been installed on buildings for

nearly 50 years. Credible manufacturers train and educate their dealers to assess the conditions of a window and

determine applicability of different films. In addition, typically the window film manufacturer will offer a warranty to

cover the existing window. It is important to work with credible manufacturers who are financially able to honor their

warranty.

Will window films make my glass look dark or look purple?

• Purple films are films that have failed, and are typically poorly designed, poor quality window films.

• There are a wide variety of films from clear to dark.

• Credible manufacturers will offer a warranty for color.

How long do window films last?

• Window film warranties can be as long as 15 years, and there are numerous examples of projects lasting well over

20 years.

FAQs






Are window films bulletproof?

• Window films are not bulletproof. Window films are used to hold the glass in place after a bullet penetrates the

window, thereby helping to slow an intruder from entering the building.

• Window films can be used in conjunction with bulletproof glass as added spall protection.

Where is window film installed on the glass or window?

• Window films are commonly installed on the inside surface of the glass.

• Newer technology films allow for films to also be installed on the exterior, providing more options, better solar

performance, and exterior protection for the glass. When considering exterior applied films, look for films that do not

include metals to ensure that the film does not have a chance to corrode due to precipitation.

I need to replace the glass in the building to meet code. Can I use window films?

• As we have just discussed, safety and security window films and attachment systems may be used to bring your

glazing up to relevant codes. Consult with your local window film dealer and code official before making costly glass

replacements.

FAQs






Applications and Case Studies






Retail Applications

Smash and grab crime is everywhere. Retail display windows

advertise merchandise to everyone. Safety and security window films

act as a low-profile deterrent for smash and grabs. A would-be thief

breaks the glass with the expectation of easy access, but the film is

designed to hold the shattered glass together, which can help slow

down entry.






Commercial Applications

Safety and security films help increase protection from the

dangers of broken glass, which can address important measures

towards life safety, property protection, and/or continuity of

operations.






Residential Applications

In residential applications, safety and security films

provide enhanced protection for people and

property from windstorms and thieves, reduced

fading of furnishings and wood floors, and improved

interior comfort, all the while maintaining the view.






Safety and security window films and attachment systems are a common solution to real world problems; however, you

may have never heard of the product before today. The main reason is that most customers who purchase these

security or safety upgrades do not want their measures publicized.

Window film manufacturers have spent millions of dollars testing to numerous safety standards, e.g., bomb blast,

human impact, and windstorm standards, and these films have been used on some of the tallest and most well-known

buildings in the world. We will go through a few case studies that have given approval for their solution to be told.

However, there are thousands if not millions of buildings worldwide that have used safety films for their protection.

Case Studies






The National Gallery of Canada, just 300 short yards away from a U.S. embassy, received a recommendation by the

Ottawa Carleton Regional Police to implement a comprehensive window protection system, due to the vast quantities of

glass on the building.

The architect, Moshe Safdie, was concerned about maintaining the aesthetic impact of the gallery, and therefore,

shutters or bars were simply out of the question. The solution was to install 125,000 sq. ft. of microlayered safety and

security film and attachment system for bomb blast protection.

National Gallery of Canada: Bomb Blast

Please remember the test password PROTECTION. You will be required to enter it in order to proceed with the online test.






Jewelry Store Case Study: Intrusion Protection

In Stuart, Florida, safety and security window films were specified after a thief

broke through the glass door and stole $35,000 worth of jewelry. Unfortunately,

the alarm system was not enough to deter the thief. Shutters were considered

by the owner; however, they did not give an “open for business” aesthetic.

The owner of the jewelry store immediately had a microlayered safety film and

attachment system installed on the new glass, and less than a week later, the

store was hit again. Fortunately, this time the criminal was unable to penetrate

the film, and nothing was stolen.






Chicago Hotel: Spontaneous Glass Breakage

One guest was staying at a luxury hotel in downtown Chicago when the

glass shower door spontaneously broke. Imagine having to walk through a

large quantity of broken glass barefoot in order to get to the phone to call

the front desk to explain what happened.

After this incident, a microlayered safety and security film was installed on

all of the shower doors in the guest rooms, so that even if the glass

shattered, the glass would stay in the frame, and not spill onto the floor.






School Safety: Intrusion Protection

Tragically, mass shooting events have been increasing at an alarming rate, and

many of these events are happening at schools—nearly 40%. Schools all

across the country are looking at ways to increase their security measures in a

cost effective way, and one of the main areas being considered is how to keep

an intruder out of the building in the first place.

Microlayered security window films and attachment systems are being used in

schools all across the country to help keep the intruders from penetrating

through the glass. This solution has shown it may deter an intruder for as long

as two minutes, giving valuable time for police to arrive, and security measures

to be implemented. Again, window films are not bulletproof: they provide

intrusion protection, helping to give you more time to prepare, and helping to

keep criminals out.






Virginia Governor’s Mansion: Intrusion Protection

The Virginia Governor’s mansion, built in 1813, is the oldest continuously

occupied executive mansion in the nation. As project managers neared the

completion of a six-month, $7.5-million renovation of the house, they pondered

how best to protect the residence in two ways.

First, they wanted to preserve the priceless antique furnishings and fabrics,

hand-woven carpets, and artwork from the damaging effects of the sun. And

second, they wanted to supplement the mansion’s safety and security system

by making it difficult to break through the building’s glass windows and doors.

John Paul Hanbury is a principal with Hanbury Evans Newill Vlattis & Company,

the architectural firm hired to design the mansion’s renovation.






Virginia Governor’s Mansion: Intrusion Protection

The architect’s priority was maintaining the building’s aesthetics, so a clear

window film was specified. In addition to blocking up to 99% of the sun’s

damaging UV rays, these window films dramatically increase the level of

safety and security of glass windows and doors by serving as an invisible

shield, making it extremely difficult to break through the glass.

A week after installation, Michael Wescott, project manager with contractors

Daniel & Company, was so impressed with the results that he asked Glass

Protection Services to return to install film to all 96 panels of the mansion’s

security station. Since the restoration, hundreds of visitors have toured the

mansion, unaware of the added protection preserving the building’s

furnishings and increasing safety and security.






Course Summary and Resources






Safety Glazing/Human Impact

• Safety films may be used to upgrade your existing glass to a “tempered” glass; consult with your local code official.

Spontaneous Glass Breakage

• Safety films applied to tempered glass help reduce the risk of glass falling from the frame.

Intrusion Protection

• Security films can increase the time it takes to penetrate a window by as long as two minutes, helping to deter

intruders.

Blast Mitigation

• Safety films have been tested to GSA bomb blast standards and are often used to help protect occupants from flying

glass fragments.

Windstorm Protection

• Safety films help preserve the building envelope, helping to keep the elements out, reduce damage, and maintain

building operations.

Antigraffiti

• A sacrificial film layer for retail, advertisement, metro transit stops, or transportation will help preserve your image and

reduce the need to replace scratched glass.

Summary






3M. http://www.3m.com/windowfilm Accessed March 2014.

American National Standards Institute - ANSI. http://www.ansi.org/ Accessed March 2014.

ANSI Z97.1 - American National Standard for Safety Glazing Materials Used in Buildings - Safety Performance

Specifications and Methods of Test. http://www.ansiz97.com/standard/ Accessed March 2014.

ASHRAE Standard 90.1 - 2007. https://www.ashrae.org/ Accessed March 2014.

ASTM F1642. Standard Test Method for Glazing and Glazing Systems Subject to Airblast Loadings.

http://www.astm.org/Standards/F1642.htm Accessed March 2014.

Consumer Products Safety Commission 16 CFR, Part 1201 - Safety Standard for Architectural Glazing Materials.

http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/granule/CFR-2012-title16-vol2/CFR-2012-title16-vol2-part1201/content-detail.html Accessed

March 2014.

GSA-TS01 - Standard Test Method for Glazing and Window Systems Subject to Dynamic Overpressure Loadings.

http://www.gsa.gov/graphics/pbs/Standards_GSATestingStandard.pdf Accessed March 2014.

Bibliography and Resources





http://www.ansi.org/

http://www.ansiz97.com/standard/

https://www.ashrae.org/

http://www.astm.org/Standards/F1642.htm

http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/granule/CFR-2012-title16-vol2/CFR-2012-title16-vol2-part1201/content-detail.html

http://www.gsa.gov/graphics/pbs/Standards_GSATestingStandard.pdf



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