Physical security is a major concern for many companies and organizations today – from police stations and government buildings to financial institutions and retail establishments, a bullet resistant barrier system can provide essential protection for these facilities.
In fact, the market for bullet resistant barrier systems has grown significantly this year. This means that more and more companies are beginning to learn about the capabilities and benefits for the first time. If you’re considering upgrading your company’s physical security features in the coming year, here’s a guide to this powerful option.
Benefits of Bullet Resistant Barrier Systems
Bullet resistant barrier systems are designed to provide a high level of protection within the interior of various facilities. These systems are constructed typically using acrylic or laminated polycarbonate glazing materials which are more versatile and easy to work with. Though no material is entirely “bulletproof,” these products are designed and tested to resist specific ballistic threats and in some cases forced entry tactics as well. Along with resisting ballistic attack these systems are generally much more difficult to breach than traditional glass. So they can stop intruders from breaking into a secure facility to do physical harm or steal valuable goods or assets. Even if intruders are able to get past the material, it is likely to take much longer, which can give people a better chance of getting to safety and help first responders make it to the scene before any major damage is done.
In addition to the physical protection offered, bullet resistant barrier systems can also serve as a deterrent. If potential offenders know or even suspect that protective solutions are in place, they are likely to rethink their plans or at least choose a different target. People who commit break ins or armed robberies are often looking for easy targets. So adding physical security that would block their attempts or slow them down may lead to fewer incidents in the first place.
Bullet resistant barrier systems are also customizable to the needs and layout of each facility. Some businesses may want bullet resistant entryway systems to facilitate screening procedures as soon as visitors get inside the building whereas other companies may prefer countertop systems that protect employees while still allowing them to easily serve customers. Since bullet resistant barrier systems can be custom designed and shaped to fit specific areas, these solutions allow businesses to choose the exact type of protection that would most benefit them.
Choosing the Right Level of Protection
In addition to choosing the style of barrier, businesses can also select the level of protection that works best for their facilities. The UL 752 ratings system is designed to specify the types of ballistics that each system or glazing product protects against. For example, level 1 products must be able to resist at least three shots from a 9mm traveling at a minimum velocity of 1,175 feet per second. The scale goes up to level 8, which must be able to withstand at least five shots from a 7.62mm rifle.
For most companies, levels 1 through 3 are the best choice. These offer a sufficient level of protection against most threats like break-ins or armed robberies. The higher levels generally protect against larger types of ammunition, like those from high powered rifles. If you’re unsure, speak with a bullet resistant glass company to evaluate the options and determine which best meets the type of threats your facility is most likely to face.
In addition to a bullet resistant barrier system, some companies may be interested in slightly lower levels of protection. For example, if your company doesn’t deal in large amounts of cash or significant valuables, it may be sufficient to invest in a non-ballistic barrier. These don’t offer protection against actual firearm threats. However, they provide a bit more than a basic sneezeguard, which simply offers a clear plastic sheet between employees and members of the public. These solutions are often preferred by companies that simply want to prevent forced entry, smash and grab, or other crimes of opportunity that don’t involve firearms.
Bullet Resistant Barrier Installation Process
Since bullet resistant barriers are so customizable, it’s important to work with a company that can help you throughout the design and installation process. For example, you may need a countertop system that fits a specific number of workstations or an entryway system that is retrofitted to the entrance of your existing building.
You start by choosing the level of protection and type of materials, and then your provider can work with you to create a custom design that works for your space. Finally your provider can discuss the details of installation to determine whether it can be done by your maintenance team or may require installation by a company that specializes in bullet resistant barrier systems to add these protective systems to your existing space.
If you’re looking for a bullet resistant glass company that can help you with everything from custom designs to complete installation for a bullet resistant barrier system, contact Insulgard today. We offer a wide array of bullet resistant barrier systems and protective solutions for businesses, government facilities, and communities throughout the country. We work with top manufacturers to provide quality products, and our products are tested by trusted entities like UL, so clients always get products that live up to recognized industry standards. Our knowledgeable team can even help you evaluate the level of protection needed at your facility, from forced entry products to high level ballistic solutions. We can even customize solutions and retrofit products to existing structures. To discuss your bullet resistant barrier options, go online to contact our team today.
