Security measures are paramount for government buildings as they help to preserve national security and safeguard public safety. One crucial part of building security is ballistics resistance, which helps mitigate potential dangers. Ballistics resistance refers to the ability of materials and systems to withstand the impact of projectiles, and a range of solutions are available. These include ballistic-resistant doors, windows, and panels that can be manufactured to meet various protection requirements. Throughout this blog post, we will explore what ballistic-resistant materials are and what grades are needed for government-building security solutions.

Understanding Ballistics Resistance

Ballistics resistance refers to the capacity of a material or structure to resist the penetration or damage caused by projectiles. It covers a range of threats, including firearms, explosives, and other ballistic weapons. In the context of government security, ballistics resistance focuses primarily on firearms and explosives commonly used in criminal or terrorist activities.

Factors to consider in determining the right grade

Several factors should be considered when deciding the right grade of ballistics resistance for government buildings. These include the following:

  • Counterterrorism or other agency measures in place
  • Emergency preparedness
  • Location and purpose of the building
  • Potential threat level
  • Presence of intelligence agencies
  • Requirements of law enforcement agencies
    Conducting a thorough threat assessment specific to the government building in question is crucial for making an informed decision.

The UL Rating System: Enhancing Government Security

The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) has established standards for ballistic protection.1 Government security is a critical aspect of safeguarding public institutions and ensuring the protection of sensitive information and personnel. One important element in enhancing government security is the use of bulletproof glass, which is subjected to rigorous testing and certification under the Underwriter’s Laboratory (UL) rating system. The UL is a reputable non-profit organization dedicated to public safety and has established a series of standards to assess the quality and effectiveness of bulletproof glass.

Let’s take a closer look at each level:

Level 1

This level refers to bullet-resistant glass capable of withstanding fire from small caliber handguns. It must resist a minimum of three 9mm FMJ rounds traveling at a velocity of 1,175 feet per second (f/s).

Level 2

Designed to withstand fire from larger caliber handguns, Level 2 bullet-resistant glass must endure at least three shots of .357 Magnum soft points traveling at a velocity of 1,250 f/s.

Level 3

Level 3 bullet-resistant glass can withstand a minimum of three shots of .44 Magnum rounds at a velocity of 1,350 f/s.

Level 4

Representing a step-up in ballistics resistance, Level 4 bullet-resistant glass is capable of withstanding at least one shot from a .30 caliber rifle with a minimum velocity of 2,540 f/s.

Level 5

This level covers bulletproof glass designated to withstand at least one 7.62mm rifle FMJ with a velocity of at least 2,750 f/s.

Level 6

An immediate improvement on Level 1, Level 6 bullet-resistant glass is designed to withstand at least five 9mm rounds traveling at an elevated minimum velocity of 1,400 f/s.

Level 7

Level 7 bullet-resistant glass is designed to withstand multiple hits with 5.56 rifle FMJs, each traveling at a minimum velocity of 3,080 f/s.

Level 8

The highest level of protection available in bullet-resistant glass, Level 8 is tested to withstand at least five shots from a 7.62mm rifle.

Government buildings and military bases typically require products rated levels 4-8. These levels are designed to offer superior protection against fire from automatic weapons and assault rifles.  By adhering to the UL rating system and selecting bulletproof glass, windows, and doors with appropriate resistance, government institutions can bolster their security measures and provide a safer environment for officials, employees, and the public.2

How Armortex Provides Government Security Measures

Armortex® provides a range of government security products that meet and exceed rigorous quality and safety regulations. Our ballistic-resistant solutions undergo thorough testing and certification to guarantee their effectiveness in withstanding potential threats and contribute to the safety and security of our nation. 

Our products include ballistic-resistant doors, windows, and fiberglass panels for government facilities requiring the highest security level. All of which can be configured and customized to suit specific needs regarding the threat level and preference of material and design.

To learn more about our comprehensive range of government security products and how Armortex® can enhance your security measures, please do not hesitate to contact us directly. 

References

  1. https://nij.ojp.gov/library/publications/ballistic-resistance-body-armor-nij-standard-010106
  2. https://www.azom.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=20374