Security is a top priority for commercial building owners and businesses, and one of the simplest yet most cost-effective measures they can take to improve security is installing security window film.
This specialized film is designed to hold broken shards of glass in place, thereby increasing human safety and enhancing overall building security, including by delaying and deterring forced entry.
While security window film is not a foolproof solution against all threats, it can play a strong role in comprehensive security strategies.
Using Window Film for Security: Delaying Forced Entry
One of the most significant benefits of security window film is its ability to delay forced entry attempts.
Security window film is made from multiple layers of strong polyester film that adhere tightly to glass surfaces.
When an intruder attempts to break a window, the film holds the glass fragments together, making it much more challenging to penetrate.
How It Works
When a window with security film is struck, the glass may crack, but it will not immediately shatter and fall apart. Instead, the broken shards remain attached to the film, creating a barrier that can withstand multiple blows.
The additional time required to break through the glass can be critical, allowing security systems to trigger alarms and giving law enforcement or security personnel more time to respond.
While security window film cannot entirely prevent entry, the delay it causes can discourage intruders who are looking for quick and easy access.
In many cases, the increased difficulty and time required to breach a window protected by security film can prompt would-be criminals to abandon their attempts and flee the scene — or get caught in the act.
Using Window Film for Security: Increasing Human Safety
The primary benefit of security window film is its ability to increase human safety by preventing broken glass shards from flying dangerously inward. In commercial environments, where large glass windows and doors are common, this protection is vital.
Preventing Injuries
In the event of an attempted intrusion, natural disaster, or explosion, windows can shatter and send sharp glass fragments flying into occupied areas. These fragments can cause severe injuries to employees, customers, or visitors.
Security window film helps mitigate this risk by keeping the broken glass in place, reducing the likelihood of injury from flying shards.
Maintaining Structural Integrity
By holding shattered glass together, security window film can also help maintain the structural integrity of windows and doors in the immediate aftermath of an impact.
This feature is particularly important in emergency situations, where maintaining the integrity of barriers can provide additional time for safe evacuation and emergency response, as well as protect the interior against additional damage, such as water damage from heavy rainfall.
Cost-Effective Security Enhancement
For commercial building owners, security window film represents a cost-effective way to enhance security without the need for extensive renovations or the replacement of existing windows.
Compared to more expensive security measures, such as installing security glass or other barriers, security window film is relatively inexpensive and easy to apply.
Easy Installation
Security window film can be applied right on top of existing windows and doors, minimizing disruption to business operations. Professional installation ensures that the film adheres properly and provides maximum protection.
Security Window Film Is Complementary to Other Security Measures
While security window film provides valuable glass protection, it is most effective when used as part of a comprehensive security system.
Integrating security window film with other measures such as surveillance cameras, alarm systems, and access control systems can create a multi-layered security strategy that significantly enhances the overall safety and security of any commercial building.
When More Robust Protection Is Needed: Riot Glass
Although security window film offers substantial benefits, there are situations where more robust protection is necessary.
For commercial properties that require full access denial and protection against more serious threats, including active threats, Riot Glass provides an ideal solution.
What Is Riot Glass?
Riot Glass is a line of different security glass (and non-glass security glazing) products that offer superior resistance to forced entry and even ballistic threats.
Unlike security window film, which only holds broken glass together, Riot Glass is designed to withstand significant impact without breaking, providing a much higher level of security.
Riot Glass is engineered to prevent criminals from gaining unauthorized entry by completely denying access through windows and glass doors.
Its tough, laminated construction means Riot Glass can withstand multiple attempts to break through, making it an excellent choice for high-risk commercial environments such as banks, retail stores, government buildings, and schools.
In addition to its resistance to forced entry, Riot Glass provides protection against more serious threats, including ballistic attacks and explosive blasts. This level of protection is crucial for commercial properties that face elevated security risks and require the highest level of security to protect their occupants and assets.
Conclusion
Security window film is an effective and cost-efficient way to enhance the security of commercial buildings by delaying forced entry and increasing human safety.
By holding broken glass shards in place, security window film helps prevent injuries and maintain structural integrity during security breaches or other emergencies.
However, while security window film can be a valuable addition to a comprehensive security system, it is important to recognize its limitations.
For commercial properties that require full access denial and protection against more serious threats, solutions like Riot Glass offer the robust protection needed to safeguard people and property.
Contact Campbell Glass and Films today to discuss how we can harden your commercial property’s security using our full range of security glazing products.
