Bulletproof glass, a vital element in numerous security protocols, is legally permissible in the United States and finds its application in a wide array of sectors, including vehicles, banking institutions, and residential protection. However, the deployment and usage of bulletproof glass are subject to specific standards and regulations. This article delves into the legal prerequisites for bulletproof glass, offering architects a comprehensive understanding of the topic.
Deciphering Bulletproof Glass
Bulletproof glass is a composite material engineered to resist the impact of bullets or other projectiles. The thickness of bulletproof glass can range from ¾ to 3+½ inches (19 to 89 mm), contingent on the level of protection needed. It finds its place in the windows of buildings that require such security, such as jewelry stores, embassies, and military and private vehicles.
Legal Guidelines
In the United States, procuring and installing bulletproof glass systems is entirely legal, and there is no requirement for a police or government permit. However, the bulletproof glass must adhere to specific standards to ensure optimal protection.
UL752 Standard for Bullet-Resisting Equipment
The UL752 “Standard for Bullet-Resisting Equipment” is a construction standard that encompasses both individual materials and fixtures composed of multiple materials. The UL Standard specifically states that, for the purposes of their standard, “bullet-resisting” implies that the rated material prevents penetration.
Significance of System Rating
To attain the highest levels of bulletproof glass, the entire system, including the glazing material, frame, and anchors, must be capable of absorbing the force from the projectiles. Merely having bulletproof glass installed in the framing system is not sufficient. The entire system must be rated highly enough to ensure optimal protection.
Bulletproof Glass in Architectural Design
When contemplating force protection for a building or safe room, architects must consider four areas: blast, ballistics, forced entry, and storm impact. Bulletproof glass plays a pivotal role in these considerations, providing a barrier against ballistics and forced entry.
Selecting the Appropriate Bulletproof Glass Provider
Some bulletproofing companies initiated as bullet-resistant window manufacturers and later started offering installations, while others are builders who stumbled upon a few bank projects and found it was a suitable fit for them. Architects should meticulously select a provider that can meet the specific needs of their project.
Customization Options
Depending on your project’s specific requirements, you may need custom framing solutions. These could include corner and bay windows or multiple lites. Ensure that the framing provider can accommodate your customization needs. This flexibility allows architects to design secure spaces without compromising on their creative vision.
Understanding the legal requirements for bulletproof glass is just the beginning. Architects must also consider installation, compatibility, aesthetics, standards compliance, maintenance, and customization when designing a bulletproof glass system. By doing so, they can ensure the creation of secure, functional, and aesthetically pleasing spaces.
To learn more about bulletproof glass and its capabilities, read our blog post: Can Bulletproof Glass Stop a Bullet?
