TSS Bulletproof » bullet resistant glass

Long Island Senator Calls for Tougher Security Against Pharmacy Robberies

karenm — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 19:46:44 +0000

An article on LongIslandPress.com reported on Senator Charles Schumer’s plan to increase security after a second fatal pharmacy robbery on Long Island in 2011.

The first incident occurred in June 2011 when “David Laffer shot and killed four people before walking out with thousands of prescription drugs.” In December 2011, a suspect, as well as an off-duty federal agent, were shot and killed after a robbery at a Seaford Pharmacy.

Schumer’s plan calls for “tighter security at small drug stores, better collaboration between local police and federal authorities and increasing the punishment for pharmacy robberies in order to stem the crisis.” He “recommended that pharmacies equip their shops with silent alarms, timed safes and bullet-proof glass that separate the customer from the pharmacist.”

The agent in charge advised pharmacy owners not to confront a robber as they are usually armed. They simply want to get in, get the drugs and get back out as quickly as possible.

Store Owner Attributes Foiled Robbery to Bulletproof Booth

karenm — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 17:42:19 +0000

According to an article posted on CitizensVoice.com, “A woman’s robbery attempt on Christmas morning failed badly: she pulled a knife and rock on a clerk protected inside a bulletproof booth and then became trapped in the store when he remotely locked the exit door.”

The Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania convenience store hasn’t been robbed in five years and the owner attributes the store’s safe reputation to the booth protecting its clerks. Catina Nahodil, the store owner, said. “I think employers who have these care about their employees a lot.”

Angelina Donvito was charged with robbery, disorderly conduct and public drunkenness. Nahodil hopes the failed robbery will serve as a warning to other criminals to avoid robbing her store.

A Unique Tribute to Steve Jobs Using Bulletproof Glass

karenm — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 14:34:54 +0000

An article on MyModernMet.com featured one artist’s unique tribute to Steve Jobs, the Apple co-founder who recently passed away. Michael Miller is known for his multi-layer sculptures that when viewed from a certain angle look more like a painting.

His most recent piece depicts the portrait of Steve Jobs featured on Apple.com. “It’s an expanded graphic portrait of Steve Jobs rendered with bulletproof glass that I found in a dumpster,” said Miller. The layers of bulletproof glass are suspended one piece in front of another and when viewed head on, it’s a striking representation of the late Jobs.

Photos Courtesy of MyModernMet.com

LP1250 vs All-Polycarbonate vs. Monolithic Acrylic

jlopatin — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 21:31:07 +0000

In most cases business owners have many options when it comes to choosing a bullet resistant plastic. Most robberies in retail and bank settings are committed using handguns, and there are a variety of transparent ballistic plastics which can ably stop these smaller-caliber bullets. This gives business owners, architects, and designers latitude to focus on creating pleasant environments for workers, customers, guests, and staff.

TRADITIONAL BULLET RESISTANT PLASTICS

Traditionally, “bullet proof glass” has been dominated by either monolithic acrylic or laminated polycarbonate. Although both plastics stop bullets, each does so in a very different fashion, and has a very different impact on the overall feel of an interior.

Most bullet proof installations rely heavily on hard, inch-thick acrylic. Skilled craftsman can cut, route, drill, and polish this material to fit any space and blend with any decor. When a bullet strikes acrylic, it pancakes against the hard face of the plastic, and transfers an enormous amount of force to the acrylic. Instead of breaking, the acrylic absorbs this force by cracking across its surface in a dense spider web, and throwing off many small chips and shards (called “spall”). This looks ugly–and those flying shards could hurt someone–but the action saps the bullet of its driving force, and keeps everyone behind the bullet proof glass safe.

Polycarbonate, on the other hand, is a more pliable bullet resistant plastic. It’s manufactured in thinner sheets (usually 1/4 to 1/2-inch thick), which are built up into thicker layers in an industrial lamination process. Polycarbonate barriers can offer comparable bullet-resistance to acrylic at almost half the thickness and weight. When a bullet strikes the face of a polycarbonate barrier, it pushes in, like a finger into Jell-o. The dense, pliable polycarbonate sucks the bullet in, locking it up inside the layered plastic. This combination of durability and pliability means that a polycarbonate window can endure an obscene amount of physical battery–either from assailants or the elements. Subsequently, polycarbonate carries a forced-entry rating, which acrylic–despite its strength–does not.

Bullet Resistant Acrylic from Total Security Solutions

But each of these materials has its downsides: the acrylic’s tendency to spall is obviously dangerous, and its lack of forced-entry durability makes it unsuitable to some settings. Meanwhile the polycarbonate, owing to its density, doesn’t transmit light very well. While acrylic absorbs less than 10 percent of the light that strikes it–ideal for bright, business-like lobbies and transaction areas–polycarbonate absorbs more than 20 percent of the light passing through it, and tends to make interiors seem a little dim.

LP1250BR: THE BEST OF BOTH BULLET RESISTANT PLASTICS

Total Security Solutions vice president Jim Richards has found that offering a bullet resistant plastic that combines the qualities of acrylic and polycarbonate is a perfect fit for many of his clients. This product is LP1250BR: a one-inch acrylic core with 1/8-inch polycarbonate end caps on either side. With LP1250BR, designers get the excellent light-transmission inherent to acrylic, without having to worry about spalling. Additionally, although LP1250BR does not carry a forced-entry rating, professionals in the field agree that the polycarbonate caps laminated to either side of the monolithic acrylic give LP1250BR windows a forced-entry boost.

KEEPING PRIORITIES

More so than other players in the field, Total Security Solutions is dedicated to aesthetics. Nonetheless, Jim occasionally finds people falling a bit too much in love with how a sheet of acrylic or polycarbonate looks after its been shot. Certainly, it’s impressive to see that sheet of polycarbonate with a bullet caught in it like a fly in amber, or to marvel at the flurry of cracks and shards that totally obscure a sheet of monolithic acrylic, yet still stop the bullet–but these really are details. “Sure, it looks great after its been shot,” he shrugs, “but if the acrylic stops it and the polycarbonate stops it, you’re going to have to replace it either way; who cares how it looks?” What counts is its day-to-day performance, choosing a material that balances daily needs with worst-case-scenario security.

Convenience Store Robberies Spike in Gainesville, Georgia

karenm — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 21:14:29 +0000

According to a GainesvilleTimes.com article, the number of armed robberies in Gainesville, Georgia spiked in the month of August with 10 robberies. “We definitely have seen an increase in the armed robberies at the convenience stores within the past month,” said Sgt. Chad Ford of the Gainesville Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division.

Ford cited economic trouble as one possible explanation for August’s increase of robberies stating that at this point, the focus of the robberies has been on the money.

One particular Shell Food Mart was the target of two armed robberies in August. As a result, the store owner, Ahmed Tharani, is looking into bulletproof glass to protect himself from future robberies. Store owners are being advised to take precautions when transporting money to the bank and keep their businesses secure at night.

Bullet-Resistant Glass Protects Firefighters from Stray Bullets

karenm — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 18:05:55 +0000

In a Cincinnati.com article, stray bullets were cited as the reason for one local fire station to install bullet-resistant glass. The Over-the-Rhine fire station has dealt with previous incidents of stray bullets bringing to light “a bigger issue: firefighters working in high-crime neighborhoods have to worry about more than burning buildings.”

The recent incident involved two stray bullets. “One bullet pierced a garage door window; the other lodged in a window. On the other side of the window: a lieutenant’s desk.” Focusing on the safety of the firefighters, the city immediately approved the installation of bulletproof glass.

Bandit Barriers for Fast Food Chains

jlopatin — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 15:12:41 +0000

At one time, banks were the only places in the United States one would see bullet resistant bandit barriers. That changed in the early 1970s when 7-Eleven began operating most of its stores on a 24-hour schedule. Competing convenience and party stores followed suit. More than a quarter of all robberies take place between midnight and 6am, and armed robbers swiftly shifted from bank heists to liquor store hold-ups.

CONVENIENT FOR THIEVES

From a cost-benefit analysis, a bank robbery is a terrible proposition: These are busy, main-street locations with solid security protocols. According to the US Department of Justice, the average bank robbery now nets only around $4,000 (often recovered), with 60 percent of bank robbers ultimately apprehended. The Department of Justice notes:

The likelihood of catching a bank robber on or near the scene is higher than for other crimes. This is because most bank robberies are reported very quickly, most occur during daylight hours, many have multiple witnesses, and some produce photographic images that can be used to canvass the surrounding area for suspects. Consequently, many robbers are caught the same day.

In the 1970s convenience stores and gas stations with extended hours of operation offered an attractive new target for criminals. The convenience store industry responded with new training and business practices, and ultimately embraced bandit barriers in high-crime areas. Convenience store robberies have subsequently decreased by 16 percent since the mid-1990s.

Along with improved security, changing business practices also make 24-hour fuel stations and stores less tempting targets: Credit card transactions account for the majority of transactions in these shops. Meaningful sums of cash are almost never permitted to accumulate in registers or staff-accessible safes.

FAST ATTACKS ON FAST FOOD

Since 2007, many quick-serve restaurants have begun keeping later hours, often staying open past 2am and having staff arrive as early as 4am–this places nearly 20 percent of the workday in the highest-crime hours of the night. Since credit card use has only become possible at fast food restaurants within the last several years, many patrons still expect to pay cash for their burgers and fries. Large sums can build up in registers and safes, and are counted down in the wee hours by managers themselves just finishing a full day of hot, hectic work. To top it off, late-night fast food restaurants are usually located near expressways and other major roadways, making a quick getaway all the easier for armed bandits like these:

Although the Bureau of Labor Statistics says that homicides at fast-food restaurants declined in 2009, the rate of assault on fast-food workers is still roughly twice as high as that at sit-down restaurants: 1.8 per 10,000 workers.

BANDIT BARRIERS PROTECT WORKERS

With quick-serve chains making such attractive targets, many industry analysts wonder if enough security is being deployed during these high-crime hours. “Some fast-food chains have come up with special food menus after midnight,” says James Alan Fox, a Northeastern University criminology professor and Crime & Punishment blogger for the Boston Globe, “But what they really need are special late-night security menus.” While security cameras and guards can obviously aid investigation following a crime, many fast-food locations are opting to prevent attacks altogether with custom bandit barriers.

.50 Cals and UL Level 10 Bullet Resistant Glass

jlopatin — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 16:19:11 +0000

If you’ve spent some time at a shooting range in the last several years you’ve certainly noted the increasing number of handguns chambered for .50 caliber bullets. Previously only seen in the battlefield, these half-inch-diameter bullets (nearly the size of a 12-gauge shotgun slug) were first adapted to sidearms in the 1980s, and popularized by the semi-automatic Desert Eagle target pistol. 2003 was a banner year for .50 caliber handguns, when Smith & Wesson–famed for their Model 29 .44 Magnum, which Dirty Harry endorsed as “the most powerful handgun in the world”–developed a .50 caliber Magnum round. The revolvers chambered for these finger-sized cartridges are almost cartoonishly massive, even when compared to Dirty Harry’s hefty long-barrel Model 29. A .50 cal pistol weighs in around five pounds, and is almost a foot-and-a-half long from hammer to muzzle. Despite this girth, the pistol’s cylinder can only accommodate five of these outsize cartridges. The UL specification for commercial bullet resistant glass doesn’t list anything more powerful than a .44 Mag or a deer rifle, leaving one to wonder: What kind of bullet resistant glass do you need to stop these giant bullets?

.50 CALIBER PISTOLS VS. .50 CALIBER RIFLES

Total Security Solutions vice president Jim Richards is quick to point out that these newer .50 caliber pistol rounds are an entirely different beast from the military rifle rounds of the same name. The most common military .50 caliber bullet is the US Browning machine gun round. Developed in the early 1900s, these are still regularly deployed in the battlefield as a standard full-metal jacket, tracer, or armor piercing bullet, as well as exotic incendiary and saboted sub-caliber projectiles (the latter offering superior accuracy over extremely long distances). Standard issue .50 cal cartridges generally have a 700 grain bullet (that is, one three times heavier than a .44 Mag) that travels at 3,000 fps (three times faster than a jet fighter), with a muzzle energy exceeding 13,000 foot-pounds (more than thirteen times that of a .44 Mag).

But no one is going to sneak up on you with a military .50 cal: The bullet itself is over five inches long (i.e., longer than the barrel on the popular Glock 19 pistol), and is fired by a four-foot-long, 90-pound, tripod-mounted rifle.

While the .50 caliber standard and Magnum rounds are large–the largest for a standard production pistol–they aren’t nearly the size of the .50 cal military cartridge, and pack nowhere near the punch. These .50 caliber pistol bullets weigh 325 grains, travel at 1,400 feet-per-second, and leave the barrel with 1,500 foot-pounds of force. That’s nothing to scoff at, but also isn’t going to punch through a bunker door.

BULLET RESISTANT GLASS FOR .50 CALIBER RIFLES

Dig deep into the UL standards and you’ll find that there is an established benchmark for stopping the .50 caliber military round: Level 10. Jim has never heard of a commercial Level 10 system: there is no demand for it in the consumer market, because .50 caliber rifles are so very scarce. Such a rifle costs $12,000 and fires rounds that cost $2 to $5 a piece. The vast bulk of consumer .50 cal rifles are in the collections of extremely wealthy gun enthusiasts; according to the US General Accounting Office’s best estimate as of 2001, only a few thousand .50 cal rifles are floating around the United States.

While these rifles are rare in civilian life, every branch of the US armed services–and most military forces worldwide–use .50 cals. What would it take to stop that bullet? According to Jim, you’re looking at an “awful thick, awful big, and awful heavy” hunk of bullet resistant glass. If he were tasked with designing such a system, he’d begin with three inches or more of glass-clad polycarbonate, which would weigh more than 30 pounds per square foot.

BULLET RESISTANT GLASS FOR .50 CAL PISTOLS

As for those ever-more-common .50 caliber hand-canons, Jim has good news: Although not rated for this use, it’s likely that conventional Level 4 bullet resistant glass would stop a standard or Magnum .50 cal bullet. A .50 caliber pistol throws a 325 grain bullet at 1,500 foot-pounds to a speed of 1,400 feet per second. By way of comparison, a .44 Mag bullet is 240 grains (a bit lighter), with 1,000 foot-pounds of energy (a bit less force), getting up just past 1,400 feet per second–and that can be stopped by a Level 3 system. Move up to Level 4, and you can stop a .30-06 hunting rifle bullet (the little cousin to the .50 caliber military round); this is a 180 grain bullet (clearly much lighter than the .50 cal pistol round) with 3,000 foot-pounds of energy (twice as much as the .50 cal pistol) moving at almost 2,800 feet per second (again, nearly twice as fast as the .50 caliber Magnum bullet).

Is the Level 4 UL tested and certified to stop a shot from Dirty Harry’s new best friend? Not yet. Would Jim feel safe standing behind Level 4 bullet resistant glass? Yes he would.

Bringing Ballistic Glass To Airports

jlopatin — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 13:24:32 +0000

In the decade since the September 11 terror attacks, airports across the United States have been obliged to take existing buildings–designed to effortlessly guide thousands of people from ticket counter to boarding gate–and shoe-horn in security checkpoints where passengers and carry-ons can be swiftly scanned, searched, and sent on their way. These new bottlenecks have created two security concerns. First, if a would-be terrorist is caught at such a checkpoint, he is likely to put up a fight, either firing bullets himself, or necessitating that TSA officers fire in order to subdue him. Second, the inevitable crowds at these screening checkpoints are themselves an attractive target to a suicide bomber (such attacks occur daily in Afghanistan, Iraq, Pakistan, and Israel).

BALLISTIC GLASS RENOVATIONS

These new threats have necessitated renovation and innovation, much of it successful. For example, many airports have implemented highly functional bullet proof man traps around their metal and bomb-residue detectors, instantly quarantining anyone who sets off an alert.

But most new barriers in existing airports take the form of half-inch tempered glass partitions. These are clear–allowing for security to maintain good sight lines–and certainly stop anyone from jumping line or running off when challenged, but tempered glass has no meaningful impact-resistance in the face of an improvised blast or modern bullet. It won’t stop a shooter or contain shrapnel, and doesn’t offer security personnel a safe backstop if they are forced to fire in a crowded concourse.

According to Total Security Solutions vice president Jim Richards, TSA regulations for securing airports focus on screening technology, personnel, and methods, not bullet proof or blast-rated barriers. The Office of Homeland Security acknowledges these security concerns, but Jim still finds that in most government installations, cost trumps safety: “You’d be shocked at the number of precincts in Detroit that don’t have bullet resistant glass; most of Chicago doesn’t have bullet resistant glass. There’s a lot of big cities in this country where the police precincts and municipal buildings, let alone airports, don’t have what we would consider adequate protection.”

AN IDEAL PLACE FOR BALLISTIC GLASS

In an ideal world, airport screening checkpoints would be designed to stop both blasts and bullets while maintaining the bright aesthetics and good sight lines that help travelers cope with the stress and bustle of getting from Fargo to Tallahassee in just a few hours. For such an application, Jim favors walls of clear glass-clad polycarbonate at least two-inches thick, with true UL-rated bullet resistant frames. These need not reach all the way to the high airport ceilings; six- or seven-foot-tall partitions would stop bullets, deter fleeing attackers, and focus a blast safely into the ceiling and away from travelers. Although such an installation might seem pricey up front, in contrast to the rest of airport security–largely in personnel, training, and high-tech detection equipment–ballistic glass is unlikely to come with ongoing maintenance costs or embarrassing civil liberty lawsuits.

Prefabricated and Custom Package Receivers

jlopatin — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 12:55:22 +0000

If you’re handling anything beyond slips of paper–cash, credit card receipts, concert tickets, etc.–you’re going to have to move up from the “deal trays” familiar from banks, credit unions, and entertainment venues, to full-fledged “package receivers.”

PREFABRICATED PACKAGE RECEIVERS

The smallest package receivers are “transaction drawers” welded from stainless steal, these slide through the bullet resistant barrier. Prefabricated drawers are available in sizes ranging from a large shoebox to drawers that can easily accommodate a gallon jug. Settings where clerks and customers handle a few bulkier items–such as in pharmacies and convenience stores–are well served by these prefab drawers.

BULLET RESISTANT PACKAGE RECEIVER

Other businesses–such as post offices, shipping companies, and large receiving offices–can expect to spend much of the day handling bulkier packages. This calls for a full-fledged package receiver. These large rectangular bullet-resistant portals have interlocking doors, one on either side of the bullet-resistant barrier. The interlocking mechanism assures that only one of the doors can be open at a time. Such receivers are generally made from either welded stainless steel or 1 1/4 inch thick acrylic. For even larger and heavier items businesses can opt for a prefabricated rotary package receiver, or “lazy susan.” These largest package receivers (up to four cubic feet) use a rotating drum or turntable to securely pass goods between staff and visitors.

CUSTOM PACKAGE RECEIVERS

High volume businesses dealing with many large or awkward items often decide that no prefabricated unit is going to cut it. Total Security Solutions rises to these occasions, from the exotic to the mundane.

Fast-food restaurants in high-crime areas pose a special challenge. As Total Security Solutions vice president Jim Richards points out, “They’ve got to be able to do their business, and it’s fast food, so the bullet proof system can’t be slowing them down.” Quick-serve restaurants demand package receivers that can be easily operated by harried staff, and offer the capacity to transfer a food tray or chicken bucket smoothly enough to avoid knocking over the super-sized beverage.

Transaction Windows: Balancing Security, Durability, and Aesthetics

jlopatin — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 20:37:20 +0000

Whether it’s mid-day in an air-conditioned bank lobby, or midnight at a rainy truck stop, the transaction window is the point in a security system where we balance our need to lockdown security and the realities of being open for business.

EXTERIOR TRANSACTION WINDOWS

Exterior transaction widows–including drive-up teller stations and after-hours walk-up windows–are designed with weatherability, structural strength, and forced entry in mind. They must withstand constant exposure to security threats and mother nature, block intruders without obstructing business, and fulfill the building’s structural and aesthetic needs.

A standard exterior transaction window consists of ballistic glass, a voice-transmission system, a weather-proof steel counter, and a pass-through drawer or covered deal tray that can lock out vermin, prowlers, and the elements. The bullet resistant window can be crafted from a variety of thicknesses of monolithic acrylic, laminated polycarbonate, or glass-clad polycarbonate to achieve varying degrees of bullet-resistance and forced-entry protection. Most outdoor applications will call for the studier polycarbonate, which holds up well to wind and rain, and shrugs off almost any beating. Steel-backed voice portals or bullet-resistant intercom systems allow for clear communication through the thick barrier while shutting out wind, rain, snow, and pests.

Although a few robust prefabricated exterior transaction windows are available, Total Security Solutions vice president Jim Richards finds that most builders opt for a custom design, so that the transaction window can best suit their site and needs.

INTERIOR TRANSACTION WINDOWS

An interior transaction window likewise consists of ballistic glass, a voice-transmission system, and a deal tray. Since there is no need to worry about keeping out storms, animals, and burglars working under the cover of darkness, the full array of available bullet-resistant materials can be considered, and design can take the front seat, both in terms of functionality and style.

“I know that we’re a security company,” Jim explains, “but we also spend a tremendous amount of time looking at aesthetics, and how the systems appear visually in terms of light transmission and the way it can be fabricated; acrylic is a superior product on that end. When forced-entry issues are raised, then you have to take that into account and consider something more robust, like polycarbonate. But in a lot of applications, forced entry isn’t a concern.”

If the business calls for it, these interior transaction windows can even be custom-installed with sliding bullet resistant glass: During peak hours clients can quickly and easily chat with workers and pass documents through the open window. As business wanes after hours workers can lock down the system for added safety.

Bulletproof Glass Rising Trend in Zoo Exhibits

karenm — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 18:37:01 +0000

Following on the heels of Seneca Park Zoo who recently installed bulletproof glass in its new lion exhibit, the Edinburgh Evening News reported that the Edinburgh Zoo, located in Scotland, is installing bulletproof glass as part of its Panda exhibit. Bulletproof glass enables visitors the best view of the animals while keeping both parties safe from harm.

“Contractors have brought in ten huge glass plates, which weigh a half-ton each, to provide a secure barrier between visitors and the 250lb giant pandas.” The bulletproof glass install is part of a larger panda exhibit renovation that includes a swimming pool, cave, nursery and climbing area, as well as a glass walkway that surrounds the exhibit.

Photo courtesy of Edinburgh Evening News.

Bulletproof Glass Foils Robbery

karenm — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 20:45:20 +0000

An article on CBS12.com reiterates the importance of bulletproof glass in preventing robberies.

A masked man carrying an AK-47 assault rifle entered a Florida gas station convenience store just before 3:00am on July 23, but left empty-handed after discovering the clerk was safely protected behind bulletproof glass. No customers were harmed.

Police were able to catch a glimpse of his face, however, when he removed his mask as he walked out of the store.

Ballistic Glass Myths and Misconceptions

jlopatin — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 18:04:56 +0000

An endless supply of high-adrenaline summer blockbusters and dramatic prime-time cop shows has firmly established “bullet proof” as a synonym for “indestructible.” This might seem like great free publicity for ballistic glass companies and installers, but the public’s false sense that they know a lot about guns and bullet-resistant security is much more of a headache than a help.

Total Security Solutions vice president Jim Richards finds that these misconceptions fall into three categories: weight, cost, and durability.

BALLISTIC GLASS WEIGHT

Jim points out, “People really have no idea about the weight, and how significant it is.” Hearing that bulletproof glass is actually plastic (usually acrylic, polycarbonate, or a laminated combination of these and glass), folks tend to imagine something light, like a salad-bar sneeze guard. True ballistic glass is a dense high-quality thermoplastic at least eight times thicker than window glass; it starts at around 8 pounds per square foot–meaning that a smallish window will weigh more than 30 pounds by itself. Higher level ballistic glass–capable of stopping several shots from an assault rifle–can be more than 25 pounds per square foot. That can quickly become a very real structural concern, and is especially troublesome to companies that specializes in bullet-proof conversion for vehicles.

BALLISTIC GLASS COST

“And people have no idea about the cost,” Jim adds. Again, we associate “plastic” with something that’s cheap and common; most people are shocked to learn that a small, prefabricated ballistic glass transaction window costs around $900, and that custom ballistic systems for commercial banks or government buildings can easily top hundreds of thousands of dollars.

BALLISTIC GLASS DURABILITY

Finally, it’s common to think of “bullet proof” as being indestructibly durable in all situations–and thus suitable for any stressful environment, from robbery-prone liquor stores to extreme weather shelters. But that’s not the case; as mentioned before improper cleaning can badly mar an otherwise beautiful installation, and not all bullet resistant products are suitable for preventing forced entry (which exerts very different stresses on a material than a speeding bullet).

People even fundamentally misunderstand what a “bullet proof” rating means: “They see movies and think this material can stop hundreds of shots,” Jim sighs, “nothing can withstand that.” A UL rating of Level 3, for example, doesn’t mean a piece of plastic will stop an infinite number of shots from a .44 Magnum; it means that a third-party laboratory has independently verified that ballistic glass will stop a tight cluster of three shots form a .44 Magnum pistol (and, in practical terms, will probably stop as many as five or six shots, since few armed robbers enjoy the ideal shooting conditions of a materials testing laboratory).

Despite the occasional frustrations, Jim still finds that “it’s a good conversation starter at parties; you tell people you do bullet resistant glass work, and they clearly have all sorts of questions and ideas.”

Megayacht Outfitted with Bulletproof Master Suite

karenm — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 14:06:12 +0000

Photography by jameslist.com

While the idea of a $300 million yacht is beyond the reach of most people, it’s fun to see how the other half lives. A blog post on HauteLiving.com states that David Geffen, DreamWorks founder, recently purchased a yacht outfitted with “two helipads, a swimming pool, spa pool, and a lavish owner’s suite with 180-degree panoramic views and a private deck.”

If that weren’t enough, Russion billionaire Andrey Melnichenko’s yacht features “an all-white 2,583-square foot master suite encompassed by bulletproof glass, which can only be accessed through a silver-plated staircase with a fingerprint scanning security measure at the door.”

How Bullet Resistant Glass Breaks

jlopatin — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 14:37:33 +0000

A modern bullet is a very small, very light, very smooth thing moving very fast. When it strikes a barrier, that barrier must absorb the bullet’s momentum or the bullet will crack straight through.

In the following video you’ll see three slow-motion examples of glass being shot. The first sheet is standard plate glass (the glass used in most home windows), the second is tempered glass (used in automobile passenger windows and as part of some bullet proof systems), and the final piece is a sheet of bullet resistant acrylic (which the host refers to as “bullet proof glass.”)

SHOOTING PLATE GLASS

In terms of basic ballistics, firing a gun at a sheet of plate glass is very instructive. A 9mm bullet has a mass around 7.5 grams (about the same as a freshly minted penny and nickel; the U.S. Mint specifies that, at production, a nickel is 5 grams and a penny is 2.5 grams). These 7.5 grams of lead are moving at an average of 1,234 feet per second (i.e., 841 mph). Instead of being cast as a blob or ball, the lead is formed into a smooth cone designed to cut through a resisting fluid (in this case air) without being knocked off its path. When it comes into contact with a brittle, rigid surface–like glass–it transfers very little of its momentum to the surface, and instead pops through, like the little straw popping into a juice box.

This is precisely what we see in the video at around the 0:40 second mark (and repeated in slow-motion at 0:48). The glass doesn’t move at all, and the bullet passes straight through.

TEMPERED GLASS

Tempered glass is four or five times stronger than plate glass. Although the sheet used in the above video clearly is not bullet resistant glass, the earliest “bullet proof” windows were indeed made from stacks of laminated glass. Even today tempered glass is occasionally used in bullet resistant systems.

As you’ll see at 1:15 in the video (and at reduced speed at 1:29), tempered glass breaks very differently from plate glass. Where-as the light, fast bullet pops right through plate glass, it utterly destroys the tempered glass, reducing it to many small cubes. This is by design: Plate glass tends to break into large dagger-like shards. In a storm, accident, or explosion, these can be more dangerous than whatever caused the window to break in the first place. Conversely, tempered glass is less likely to break to begin with, and when it does, the numerous little glass nuggets of shattered tempered glass are unlikely to cause loss of life or limb. Owing to these two characteristics–strength and shattering to particles–tempered glass is also called “safety glass,” and often used in public entryways, display windows, exterior windows on tall buildings, and in the passenger windows of cars.

THE PHYSICS OF TEMPERED BULLET RESISTANT GLASS

There is some neat physics behind this. Tempered glass begins its life as standard plate glass, which is cut to size (it can’t be cut after tempering), then precisely heated and cooled in a specialized annealing furnace. This forces the surface of the glass to cool faster, compressing the still-molten interior. As the interior cools, it pulls against this hardened compressive envelope. This balance of compressive (squeezing) and tensile (pulling) forces makes the glass very strong. But when the surface is broken, these stresses are knocked out of balance, the crystalline structure collapses, and the glass crumbles. (For a little historical tempered-glass trivia, check out this earlier blog post about Prince Rupert’s Drops).

SHOOTING TEMPERED GLASS AT ONE MILLION FRAMES PER SECOND

These balanced stresses mean that a sheet of tempered glass eats up more of a bullet’s momentum upon impact. Early WWII-era bullet resistant glass was made by laminating together layers of tempered glass; a bullet might shatter the first couple layers of this “glass sandwich,” but that shattering would slow the bullet enough to keep it from cracking through the barrier.

Here is some really striking one million frame-per-second super-slow-mo footage of bullets striking tempered glass.

SHOOTING BULLET RESISTANT ACRYLIC

At the 1:52 mark we finally see a legitimate piece of bullet resistant glass get shot. This is sheet of monolithic acrylic (the shot is repeated in slow-mo at 2:16). You’ll note that this true bullet resistant glass behaves very differently from either of the other kinds of glass. The thick, solid acrylic stops the bullet in its tracks. Sharp-eyed viewers will see the acrylic jump back a little: since the bullet slams into the acrylic–rather than popping through–the bullet resistant glass is obliged to absorb all of the bullet’s forward momentum. Because the shot is from such close range and dead on, the bullet doesn’t even ricochet. Instead, its energy is converted to heat by the impact, and the bullet melts. The boiling lead then spatters away as tiny droplets, which splash across the acrylic, marring its surface. (In this section of the one-million frame-per-second super-slow-mo footage you can see bullets actually boil and shatter as they hit lead blocks).

SHOOTING BULLET RESISTANT POLYCARBONATE

The other popular bullet resistant glass, vital to higher-level bullet proof systems, is polycarbonate. In this video, Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman of Mythbusters explore a number of common “bullet proof” myths (e.g., Can a deck of cards stop a .22? What about a lighter? A Bible?), including their own perception that the quarter-inch polycarbonate they use in their blast shields is bullet proof (spoiler alert: it isn’t).

Of most interest to us is the last half of the video, where they shoot at an actual Level 3 bullet resistant polycarbonate box. This starts around the 5:00 mark. At 5:35 they’ve just shot the box with a .357 Magnum. Rather than boiling away or ricocheting, the bullet is encased in the thermoplastic. This is because the polycarbonate is significantly softer than acrylic, allowing the bullet–which is designed to penetrate–to push underneath the surface of the polycarbonate. The polycarbonate behaves like a very thick fluid offering a tremendous amount of resistance, and successfully sapping the bullet of its energy.

Having stopped a .22, .357 Magnum, and .44 Magnum, the Mythbusters pit their Level 3 bullet resistant glass box against a .30-06 at 6:32. Level 3 bullet resistant glass is rated to resist several shots from a 9mm, .357, or .44–and can often even stop bullets from an M16 or AK-47–but you need Level 4 glass to stop a high powered rifle. And as you see in the video, that .30-06 bullet pops through the Level 3 polycarbonate just as easily as the .38 popped through the plate glass in the first video. Host Jamie Hyneman marvels that the box “didn’t even jump.” This indicates that almost none of the bullet’s momentum was transferred to the bullet resistant box. Because the box couldn’t absorb the forward energy, the bullet cracked straight through. Compare this to the .44 shot at 6:08: The box easily caught the bullet, sliding back to absorb the bullet’s momentum.

True Level 3 Frames for Level 3 Ballistic Glass

jlopatin — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 13:05:37 +0000

A sheet of Level Three ballistic glass can stop a .44 Magnum bullet, but what if that glass is being held in place by an aluminum frame that can’t? Under normal conditions this is probably OK: It’s rare for even a single shot to be fired during a robbery. But some locations–such as government installations and police stations–face a much greater threat level than your local 24-hour gas station. Surprisingly, many of these facilities end up with bullet proof systems little better than the corner store.

FRAMING SYSTEMS SECURE BALLISTIC GLASS

The framing system–those sections of aluminum channel holding the ballistic glass in place–is one of the very few possible failure points in an otherwise seamless bullet resistant installation. But almost none of the nation’s bullet proof companies offers a framing system with true Level 3 stopping power.

As Total Security Solutions vice president Jim Richards explains it, most fabricators content themselves with “packing” standard aluminum frames and using them in Level 3 applications. “They take a strip of fiberglass, wedge it inside the channel, and glue it with epoxy or construction adhesive or whatever they’re using.” This, theoretically, imparts some bullet stopping–or at least bullet-deflecting–power. But it’s also far too easy to imagine that fiberglass splintering and crimping to the side under the force of a fusillade of bullets, making it possible for a high-caliber slug to squeeze around the edge of the Level 3 ballistic glass.

THE TRUE LEVEL THREE FRAMING SYSTEM

To secure Level 3 ballistic glass, Jim favors a true, rated Level 3 framing system. Drawing on decades of experience gained over the course of installing thousands of custom ballistic glass systems, Total Security Solutions engineers designed the industry’s first and only true Level 3 bullet-resistant framing system. It is made from specially tempered extruded aluminum or 14 gauge milled steel with demonstrated bullet-stopping characteristics. “There’s additional cost–there’s more aluminum than in your standard aluminum channels, for starters–but you have a real product: It’s been sent to UL, it’s been shot, it’s been tested.”

THE RIGHT SYSTEM FOR THE RIGHT LOCATION

Jim worries that there’s a lack of commitment within the industry to the highest level of security and transparency. He recalls being asked to bid on a project retrofitting a police station in California. In doing so, he noticed that a competitor intended to install Level 3 ballistic glass using standard fiberglass-packed aluminum frames. Jim was appalled. “I’m not gonna put two-piece channel packed with fiberglass into a police station.” He allows that there are appropriate settings for a fiberglass-packed frame–for example, it might be suitable in a retail setting, where a cost-conscious customer needs ballistic glass more for its deterrent qualities than bullet-stopping power. “But when you’re dealing with some of these government buildings, GSA buildings, or police facilities, that’s not the place to nudge the bottom line down at the cost of security.”

Bullet Proof Glass Installed in New Seneca Park Zoo Lion Exhibit

karenm — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 17:00:30 +0000

A non-working 1967 double decker bus will find new life at the Seneca Park Zoo in Rochester, New York. A WHEC article states, “They are taking out all the seats, re-inforcing the walls with steel and replacing windows with bullet proof glass.”

The bus will be parked along the fence to the lion exhibit providing zoo visitors a safari-like experience allowing them to come “face to face with the king of the jungle.”

Bullet Proof Glass Keeps Civilian Workers Safe

karenm — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 12:10:05 +0000

A recent 40/29 TV article states that the Fort Smith, Arkansas Police Department is taking measures to protect the safety of their civilian workers and put more officers out on the street. Previously, an armed police officer manned the front desk of the station at all times, ”but with the addition of the bullet proof glass, those officers will now be out patrolling the streets, with civilian workers taking over desk duty.”

Watch the 40/29 TV interview of how the Fort Smith police are replacing security guards with bullet proof glass.

The Water Jet Cutter Comes To Bullet Proof Glazing

jlopatin — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:07:02 +0000

Most modern industries are eager–sometimes even too eager–to embrace new forms of automation. This has especially been true in manufacturing, so Jim Richards (vice president of Total Security Solutions) has been curious as to why the bullet resistant glazing industry has been so slow to embrace automation. Specifically, Jim has found that very few bullet proof fabricators have invested in water jet cutters, despite the popularity of these machines throughout the fabrication sector, and the obvious cost and quality advantages that come with the investment.

THE OLD BULLET RESISTANT GLAZING PROCESS

Until recently, fabricating bullet proof glazing, fiberglass, and steel has been a multi-step process, almost all done by hand. Raw materials–be they steel, fiberglass, monolithic acrylic, or glass-clad polycarbonate–arrived as large sheets, not unlike plywood or drywall. These sheets would be cut into large “blanks”–the basic door or window shape–using a granite saw, and then hauled to a separate shop to be routed, drilled, and milled by hand.

BRINGING COMPUTER CONTROL TO BULLET RESISTANT GLAZING

A computer-controlled water jet cutter can reduce almost all of this to a single step. Total Security Solutions’s water jet cutter uses a stream of water and abrasive particles (in this case garnet) sprayed at ultra-high pressure (between 30,000 and 90,000 psi) through a narrow nozzle. Because water jet cutters reproduce the natural process of erosion–at a greatly accelerated pace–they can cut through any thickness of most materials given sufficient time. Total Security Solutions’s water jet cutter can quickly slice through four-inch titanium. So, stacks of steel, fiberglass, or bullet proof glazing can be cut at once, rather than having to work each individual sheet. Since this unit is computer controlled, almost all of the notching, drilling, and routing can be done by the same machine in a single step, rather than shuffling pieces from shop to shop. And the computer-controlled device also makes it possible to execute long smooth curves and other cuts that would have previously been prohibitively expensive, or even impossible.

A GREENER BULLET RESISTANT GLAZING SYSTEM

The key advantage of a water jet cutting–the one that makes it a winner in any industry dealing with expansive materials–is that the jet itself can be made very narrow (far thinner than the thinnest saw blade), and the computer control is extremely precise and accurate; in the end, much less material ends up as scrap on the floor or dust in the air. This efficiency makes for a significantly “greener” cutting process. Not only is there less waste, but the water and garnet used in cutting are naturally inert, and can easily be filtered for immediate reuse or safe disposal. Finally, the water jet eliminates fumes, smoke, dust, and other particulate matter, making for a much improved work environment.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Despite the higher cost of running the water jet cutter (which runs between $100 and $120 per hour in electricity, water, and the garnet abrasive), the increased efficiency has created real savings that allow Total Security Solutions to expand their offerings and quality without increasing their prices. They can now slice a four-foot by eight-foot sheet of fiberglass into 10 or more pieces in less than 15 minutes, including all cutouts, notches, and mounting holes. From there the pieces can go straight to laminating or the spray booth for finishing, with no further hand fabrication. This is half the time the job used to take. Total Security Solutions now cuts and notches all of their fiberglass and steel on this device.

Water jet cutting has also allowed Total Security Solutions to fabricate steel in ways that were previously not possible, and to cut, drill, and add details (like speak holes) to glass-clad polycarbonate–work that cannot be done with conventional tools. All said, this has meant a real expansion in the quality and breadth of their Level Three and above offerings.

Fabricating Bullet Resistant Barriers

jlopatin — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 18:48:35 +0000

Creating a bullet resistant barrier isn’t just a matter of slapping together some acrylic and fiberglass, then screwing it all into place. High-quality construction is just as important as high-quality materials.

While some jobs call for custom designed systems of bullet proof glass and fiberglass, most applications are in established fields (banks, gas stations, offices), that are perfectly suited to prefabricated systems. While Total Security Solutions is eager to step to the challenge of an interesting custom job, they are more than happy to crank out bread-and-butter drop-in bullet resistant barriers for day-to-day applications.

By far the most popular pre-fabricated units are transaction windows. Constructing these is a five step process, each handled by a dedicated shop within the Total Security Solutions facility in Fowlerville, MI.

1) THE GLASS SHOP

The ballistic glass used in Total Security Solutions’s bullet resistant barriers arrives in large sheets, not unlike plywood or drywall. These sheets of ballistic glass come in several thicknesses, corresponding to their relative bullet-stopping power–for example, a one-and-a-quarter inch sheet will stop three 9mm bullets, while a slightly thicker piece is needed to stop a .357 Magnum. Workers use a large circular saw (the type often used to cut granite slabs) to divide the large sheets into individual blanks, each roughly the size of the completed window. These are then machined by hand using routers and drills, in order to add the appropriate notches, mounting holes, louvers, and voice portals. Finally, each piece is finished by sanding down or flame polishing all the rough edges.

2) THE WOOD SHOP

The bullet resistant barrier will ultimately be anchored to a counter top, which will also house the stainless steel deal tray. These counters are cut, drilled, and finished in the wood shop, and may be made from laminated wood, plastic, Corian, or even marble.

3) THE METAL SHOP

In addition to the stainless steel cash tray, transaction windows and other bullet resistant barriers need a steel or ballistic aluminum frame to hold the pieces together. In the metal shop, these pieces of channel are cut to size, drilled with mounting holes, and then smoothed and deburred for both aesthetic appeal and ease of installation.

4) ASSEMBLY

In a separate shop the pieces are brought together: Workers secure deal trays to the counters, then build and anchor the frames. Once they’ve slid the ballistic glass into place, they install stops to ensure a snug fit, then finish the frame. Once the bullet resistant barrier is fully constructed, it is thoroughly cleaned, wrapped, and prepared for shipping.

5) SHIPPING

Shipping a pre-fabricated bullet resistant barrier doesn’t mean tossing it into any old crate and slapping some stamps on it. These transaction windows can thwart 9mm bullets, but that doesn’t mean the won’t get dinged up or scuffed by a clumsy UPS man. Total Security Solutions relies on custom crates and shipping protocols to guarantee that their products arrive in pristine condition.

Although a single transaction window of any size can easily be finished in under a day, the genius of these drop-in units is that they can be integrated into the existing workflow of custom orders. In practice, Total Security Solutions builds 8 to 10 of these one-piece bullet resistant barriers per week. Maximizing the use of their equipment and workers’ time in this way keeps these units affordable without sacrificing any quality.

Hospitals Face Rising Need for Bullet Proof Glass

karenm — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 12:23:57 +0000

A recent article in the Dayton Daily News reiterates an earlier post about the need for bulletproof glass going beyond banks.

Emergency rooms in hospitals nationwide are experiencing an increase in violence. According to the Miami Valley Hospital administrator, “[ . . . ] people come to emergency rooms under stressful situations and included some who are intoxicated, victims of assault or are in police custody.”

As a result, more hospitals are taking precautions to protect their staff and patients. The article states, “[ . . . ] staffers receive special training to defuse heated situations and there is bullet proof glass in emergency room nursing areas.”

Bulletproof Glass Protects Kids During Robot War

Jim — Tue, 31 May 2011 22:06:10 +0000

We love this piece from National Public Radio (NPR) on how building and battling robots gets kids geeked about engineering and manufacturing. We are engineers and manufacturers! To boot, during the robot wars, bulletproof glass protects kids from carnage.

According to NPR‘s report, “Inside an 8-foot-tall bulletproof glass cage, the gladiators buzz, crash and generally demolish each other. The bulletproof glass is an important feature — chunks of metal fly in all directions as students drive the robots using remote control.”

The purpose of the demolition is noble: Getting kids geeked about high tech manufacturing. According to the organizers, as reported by NPR, “Manufacturing’s not a smokestack industry anymore,” says National Tooling and Machining Association Chairman Grady Cope. “What we do is cool.”

We agree: Manufacturing is cool.

Robbed Gas Station Owner: Planning on Bulletproof Glass

Jim — Fri, 20 May 2011 20:31:36 +0000

Palladium-Item photo by Steve Koger

A story today from the Palladium Item in Richmond is a reminder that putting off an investment in bulletproof glass can be costly.

A Shell gas station was robbed for the second time this week. According to the gas station owner, “the suspect got more than $1,500 in the first robbery April 18. On Monday, the suspect was able to get more than $3,000.”

The article states that, “The owner had videos of the robberies and provided them to police, who used the footage to identify… a suspect. The station manager also said he was planning to install bulletproof glass around the registers so his employees and the registers would be protected from robbers.”

Bulletproof: What Makes a Car Cool

Jim — Fri, 13 May 2011 13:45:55 +0000

James Bond's Bulletproof Ashton Martin

A recent article on the top five movie cars questions, “What makes a car cool?”

Not surprisingly, bulletproof glass is one answer to that question.

Of the top five cars, two are bulletproof: James Bond’s Aston Martin and Batman’s custom Batmobile.

Batmobile from the 1989 Batman film

Bond’s Aston Martin has appeared in 23 films. Although we think it being bulletproof makes this car cool, other features helped it make the lit, including ejector seats and headlight rockets

Just like Bond’s bulletproof ride, Batman’s boasts an impressive list of additional features, including machine guns, oil slicks emitters and smoke screens.

Bulletproof “Carriage” Fit for a New Princess

Jim — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 16:11:32 +0000

Catherine Middleton arrives for her wedding to Prince William in a bulletproof car

Catherine Middleton, now the Duchess of Cambridge, arrived at her wedding to Prince William in Queen Elizabeth’s custom Rolls Royce. The 1977 Rolls-Royce Phantom VI was given to the Queen in 1978 for the Silver Jubilee of her reign by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders. The custom-built limousine includes a raised roof and other special features.

In December, the car carried Prince Charles through a riot, where protesters, angry at cuts to public employee pay, scratched the vehicle and cracked its windows. Following the incident, the Rolls was restored with new safety precautions, including — and most notably — bulletproof glass window.

Drive-Thru, Bulletproof Funerals

Jim — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 19:30:21 +0000

James Lewis visits former Compton City Councilwoman Bernice Woods during a drive-thru viewing at Adams Mortuary in Compton (Christina House / For The LA Times)

Those who can’t get over their dislike of funeral homes don’t even have to get out of the cars in LA’s Compton suburb. The Robert L. Adams Mortuary features a drive-thru window for those who want to pay their respects from the comfort of their vehicle.

As reported by the LA Times: “It’s a unique feature that sets us aside from other funeral parlors,” said Peggy Scott Adams, owner, Robert L. Adams Mortuary. ““You can come by after work, you don’t need to deal with parking, you can sign the book outside and the family knows that you paid your respects.”

The funeral home’s drive-thru window is made of bulletproof glass.

Exhibit Shows Early Use of Bulletproof Glass in Courtroom

Jim — Fri, 08 Apr 2011 18:38:39 +0000

Adolf Eichmann in a bulletproof chamber, during his trial. Photo credit: AP Photo/Markus Schreiber

In Berlin, “Facing Justice — Adolf Eichmann on Trial” opened this week. The exhibit marks the 50th anniversary of the infamous trial of Nazi Adolf Eichmann. Eichmann’s trial is credited with shining a public light on stories of the Holocaust and World War II.

An article published by Jweekly explained the historical significance of the trial as “a milestone in re-examining Germany’s World War II history, coming on the heels of the 1950s, when neither the victims nor the ex-Nazis spoke of the suffering they had borne or inflicted.”

What does an exhibit examining a trial from 1961 have to do with bulletproof glass? It includes hours of film footage of Eichmann sitting inside a bulletproof glass booth, listening to the testimonies of Holocaust survivors.

The Dollars and Cents of Bullet Resistant Panels and Ballistic Glass

Jim — Mon, 07 Mar 2011 15:56:51 +0000

Bullet resistant panels and glass are nearly unique, in that the product is so familiar–we’ve all seen it, touched it, and know what it does–but, in contrast to a car, flat-panel TV, or college education, few of us have seen the price tag.

Total Security Solutions vice president Jim Richards admits, “it’s really hard when you get that initial call. You’d be surprised by the number of people that have no idea what this costs,” or how quickly customizations can add up. “That’s the challenge–informing the customer–more than selling: What are they truly looking for? Do they have a fixed budget? We’re not going to recommend a $10,000 solution if you only have $2,000 to spend.”

A Broad Price Range

It doesn’t help that the price range for a bullet proof system is wide: On one end, a tidy little transaction window with a counter and currency tray–which ships as a single piece and can be installed by any competent carpenter–might run as little as $900. On the other end, a custom design for a Federal Reserve bank in a major US city, with 4 doors, 22 windows, yards of bullet resistant fiberglass panels, and custom hardware can easily run upwards of $160,000.

Jim trains his sales staff to be prepared for sticker shock. “A cost is a cost; we let our salesman know that we don’t have anything to hide: you give us what your requirements are, and we’ll tell you what the costs are.”

Assessing those costs means answering three questions:

What level of protection do you need?
How big of an area are you trying to secure?
What functionality do you need?

Protection Level

Obviously, Level 1 or 2 bullet proof systems–capable of stopping three shots from a 9mm or .357 Magnum pistol, respectively–can use thinner, lighter bullet resistant panels and glass than a Level 8 system, which relies on heavier, thicker layers of glass-clad polycarbonate. The simple cost of materials will have a major impact on the total cost of a system.

System Size

A simple Level 1 three-foot by three-foot wall-mounted walk-up window will typically cost around $1500, including the pre-fabricated window and bullet resistant panels for the wall. But if you add an ADA-compliant counter, stainless-steel frame, electronic talk-thru, or decide to expand that window, the system can quickly creep up to $5000. Jim points out that “it’s not uncommon these days for some specialized locks to run $500 to $1000 for the hardware alone.”

System Functionality

Any business exploring bullet resistant options is already thinking in terms of loss prevention and risk analysis, balancing the cost of security (both out of pocket and in its impact on functionality) against the likelihood of an attempted armed robbery. “They know better than we do what their security risks are.”

It does little good to invest in protecting your shop if a sloppily designed system will result in greatly reduced business. For example, Jim notes that there is a big difference between day-time and night-time use in gas stations and convenience stores. Daring daylight robberies are very rare, and night-time assaults all too common. During those busy daytime hours, clerks need to quickly help customers and complete transactions. This can be painfully slow if a credit card and receipt need to make several trips through a cash drawer. So, owners often opt for sliding bullet proof windows that can be closed down and locked at 7 PM, when business slows and robberies become more likely, and then opened back up at 5 AM to meet the morning rush. This more complicated hardware might bump the price of the installation up by as much as 10 percent, but the increased transaction speed of a well-designed and flexible system is priceless.

Eric Clapton’s "Layla" Guitar Protected by Bulletproof Glass

Jim — Fri, 25 Feb 2011 15:10:59 +0000

Eric Clapton and Brownie

We often think of banks, pharmacies, municipal buildings and convenience stores as the most likely places to find bulletproof glass, but cars, museums and other places can be bulletproof, too. We’ve previously mused on the Mona Lisa’s vacation from her bulletproof case and bulletproof tech devices.

As music lovers, we appreciate that Eric Clapton’s famous guitar, Brownie, is also housed in bulletproof glass. Owned by billionaire Paul Allen, Brownie is part of the Experience Music Project, a Seattle organization where “music meets science fiction.”

What’s different about Brownie versus any other guitar that the rock legend touches? It was the axe Clapton used on his utterly amazing Layla album. (Another fun Layla fact? It’s based on a 12th century poem, “Leyli and Majnun”.)

On Saturday, Clapton will be a mere stone’s throw from Brownie when he plays a concert at KeyArena. Reportedly, no reunion between man and guitar is planned.

Audi Releases Bulletproof Luxury

Jim — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 17:51:13 +0000

Photo from Complex.com

Luxury car company Audi recently announced plans to release its classic A8 sedan as an armored vehicle. The car is complete with bulletproof glass and armored plating.

This hardcore car earned the German VR 7 Ballistic certification. The certification means that the car is bulletproof, including fire from an assault rifle, and can also withstand anti-tank mines.

Convenience Store Owner Goes Bulletproof After Robbery

Jim — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 14:53:25 +0000

A convenience store owner in Thermal, Calif. is going bulletproof after a robbery on Saturday. The Apple Market was robbed this past week by two armed men.

In an article published on MyDesert.com, the store owner, who wished to remain anonymous, said that he would be installing bulletproof glass to “partition off employees from others in the store.”

The store owner went on to say that although no one was injured, he’s not willing to take the risk going forward. He planned to have the glass enclosures installed as soon as possible.

Anyone with info on the robbery should call The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department at (760) 863-8990.

Courthouse Bulletproof Project Vendor Wins More Jobs with Total Security Solutions

Jim — Tue, 11 Jan 2011 15:39:47 +0000

It’ s a good thing that Phil Moreland of Ashe Glass & Mirror, an installer of numerous types of glass, isn’ t the superstitious type. He encounters more broken mirrors and glass daily than most of us will see in our lifetime.

Every day, Phil needs replacements for the broken, chipped, and scratched glass that will come from suppliers as near as five miles down the road from his Tampa, Fla. facility.

To say he was anxious about the level three bulletproof glass that he ordered from Total Security Solutions is an understatement. The ballistics resistant glass, needed for six different courthouses where Phil was a sub-contractor, was a critical element to Phil’ s work.

“ The bullet resistant glass that was required for the courthouse project was unique,” Moreland explained. “ The design and install was potentially tricky, since the glass would be installed around a guard desk as well as a metal detector at the courthouse entrance. Adding to the challenge is that we were working on six different courthouses at the same time. The margin for error was pretty high.”

From the first call that Moreland made to Total Security Solutions, his experience was refreshingly different. “ It’ s not unusual to call a vendor for a quote and not get what you need,” he said. “ It was nearly impossible for me to get the three quotes I needed to bid on this work. I expected Total Security Solutions to be just like everyone else and was surprised to not only get a call back immediately, but to get all of the information I needed for the bid within hours.”

From that initial contact with Total Security Solutions to delivery of the product, Moreland continued to be impressed with his experience. “ When the glass arrived from Total Security Solutions, I was surprised that it was packaged according to location, simplifying the process for my install team,” he said. “ I could sleep easy that night because I knew that everything I needed for the job was in the box from Total Security Solutions. Not one chip, missing part or any complications got in the way of me delivering a quality product to my customer.”

“I didn’ t have to cut anything or do any alterations whatsoever to the bullet resistant glass that Total Security Solutions sent,” Moreland said. “ Every piece of glass was impeccable.”

“I wish I could order a cup of coffee that would come together as well as the bulletproof glass from Total Security Solutions,” he added. “ I would trust them to send my personal belongings to the moon.”

Moreland is now able to use the courthouse project to sell new contracts. “Having a quality partner on board gives me the confidence to bid on complex projects,” he said. “ Working with Total Security Solutions has improved my business and created new opportunities.”

Prince Charles' Bulletproof Bentley

Jim — Fri, 17 Dec 2010 15:00:18 +0000

After protests occurred in London tied to a recent increase in public college tuition fees, security surrounding Britain’s Prince Charles has increased. Among the new measures: Reinforcements to his Bentley.

The bomb-proof vehicle, valued at $235,000, is outfitted with bulletproof glass. According to published reports, the car also includes GPS tracking and armor plating.

What’s interesting is that the bullet resistant glass used in vehicles like the Prince’s Bentley might be one way, meaning it will stop a bullet from coming into the car, but not stop a bullet from being shot from within the vehicle.

It’s not unusual for dignitaries to ride in vehicles protected by bulletproof glass. In fact, The Presidential State Car of the United States is outfitted with bulletproof glass.

The Two Most Powerful Things in Existence

Jim — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 20:25:02 +0000

In a blog all about glass so powerful that it can stop a bullet, you might assume that we’d consider bullets and bulletproof glass the two most powerful things in existence. But, from where we sit, our view aligns with that of Ken Langone, founder of The Home Depot, Inc., who said:

“The two most powerful things in existence: A kind word and a thoughtful gesture.”

Langone used that philosophy to build his business from the ground up. Today, according to its investor relations information, The Home Depot “is the world’s largest home improvement specialty retailer and the fourth largest retailer in the United States with fiscal 2009 retail sales of $66.2 billion and earnings from continuing operations of $2.6 billion.”

With results like that, Langone is obviously on to something.

At Total Security Solutions, we share Langone’s belief that a kind word and a thoughtful gesture are incredibly powerful. We treat every customer like they’re our only customer.

The result of our customer care? Contrary to so many businesses, ours is growing. When Total Security Solutions opened its facility in Michigan five years ago, we employed nine people. Today, we employ over 30 people who are committed to manufacturing a quality product.

So, why blog about customer service versus bulletproof glass news? Because in a market where other manufacturers can deliver a similar product, we like to think it’s how we’re treating our customers, through the quality and service we provide, that’s making our business — and our theirs — grow. And, although we’re all about the power of bulletproof glass, we’re just fine with including kindness and care on our list of powerful things, too.

Transparent super armor created from Alzheimer’s protein

Jim — Thu, 28 Oct 2010 14:24:05 +0000

Researchers at Tel Aviv University in Israel have discovered that beta-amyloids, the destructive proteins behind Alzheimer’s disease, might have a practical purpose. Using these proteins, the researchers have developed an organic material that’s transparent and twice as strong as Kevlar.

According to an article published by the SyFy Channel:

Not only is this new super-material stronger than both Kevlar and steel, as far as is known it’s the hardest organic material in existence, ever. It also happens to be completely transparent, printable, easy to manipulate and just as easy (i.e. cheap) to manufacture.

Researchers think there’s a potential for the material to be used in existing materials, including bulletproof glass.

Bank Robber Thwarted by Bulletproof Glass

Jim — Wed, 20 Oct 2010 18:59:29 +0000

A would-be bank robber in Smyna, Georgia was thwarted by bulletproof glass yesterday. The robbery attempt occurred at a BB&T Bank at around 11 a.m.

According to police, the man was caught on camera handing a bank teller a note demanding money. Fortunately, the area is protected by bulletproof glass.

The man left the bank empty handed.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Cobb County Police Department at 770-499-3945.

Squeaky Clean Bullet Proof Glass

Jim — Mon, 13 Sep 2010 16:36:16 +0000

Often, bullet proof glass is really comprised of polycarbonate materials. Pick up a big mirror and you’ll be reminded that glass is pretty darned heavy. In some situations, it’s simply impractical to create bullet proof “glass” when a polycarbonate solution would be lighter, but equally effective.

A downside to polycarbonates is that they are prone to scratches. This scratch potential is why you’ll get a cleaning cloth with eyeglasses or sunglasses you purchase, and why computer and TV screens have special cleaning products, too.

A great article on eHow.com explains how to clean bulletproof glass. Our suggestion: Use a soft cloth (not paper towel!) and a mild soap.

Bulletproof Stops Bank Robber

Jim — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 19:32:14 +0000

We were delighted to see this story of crime gone bad!

KGTV San Diego reported that bulletproof glass thwarted an armed man’s attempt to rob a Bank of America branch last week. Read the recap of the story here. Thankfully, no one was hurt in the robbery attempt and the would-be robber walked away empty handed.

The San Diego Police Department and FBI released photos of the robber and are asking for assistance in his capture. Anyone with information is urged to call the FBI at (858) 565-1255.

NPR Reports: Bulletproof Glass Business Booming in Mexico

Jim — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 13:11:14 +0000

A recent NPR report highlighted the growth of bulletproof glass businesses south of the border. As Mexico’s drug wars intensify, so too, grows the need for armored vehicles.

Photo courtesy of NPR/ Jason Beaubien

According to NPR’s report, there are 14 armoring companies certified by Mexico’s federal government. A plant engineer at one of the armoring companies explains that armor protection can range from level 1, or basic, to level 5, or advanced:

“Armoring a car, particularly a large SUV, can mean adding more than a ton of steel, thick sheets of Kevlar and 3-inch-thick glass windows. Once you get to Level 4 and Level 5, we upgrade the suspension and in some cases the motor to compensate for the added weight.”

The report also includes reference to lives saved by bulletproof glass:

“There have been… recent incidents in which bulletproofing saved lives. In April, gunmen ambushed the state security secretary for Michoacan, Minerva Bautista Gomez. The attackers fired 2,700 rounds into her convoy and ripped apart her Jeep Grand Cherokee, according to investigators. But the car had been bulletproofed and Bautista Gomez survived, though two of her bodyguards and two passing motorists were killed in the ambush.”

A transcript of the original report can be found here.

How does bulletproof glass work?

Jim — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 14:26:16 +0000

Our website is full of great information on bulletproof glass, but we still get asked (often) how our glass works. We don’t want to bore you with all of the details, but did find this nifty explanation of the process on HowStuffWorks.

Image courtesy of HowStuffWorks

Keep your eyes peeled for the “Keep Out” episode of Modern Marvels, too. We were featured on this History Channel program’s look at the manufacturing of bulletproof glass and the episode is replayed periodically.

World’s Most Expensive Hotel Boasts Bulletproof Glass

Jim — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 14:09:52 +0000

We were pretty delighted to hear that bulletproof glass is among the amenities offered at the world’s most expensive hotel. At the Hotel President Wilson in Geneva, a five star wonder that offers 228 guest rooms and 48 suites, guests enjoy “all the amenities that define luxurious living, including Spa, beauty centre and hairdresser, and Fitness Centre.”

From the Daily Telegragh, a photo of the world's most expensive hotel room

Guests who spring for the hotel’s top of the line offerings get an added amenity: Bulletproof glass! Enjoy the view of Lake Geneva through bulletproof glass from the royal penthouse suite, which rents for a reported $53,000 a night.

Secret Service Museum Protected by Bullet Proof Glass

Jim — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 14:54:51 +0000

PHOTO CREDIT: CHRIS USHER / MCCLATCHY NEWSPAPERS

We weren’t surprised at all to read a recent article about the Secret Service museum’s bullet proof glass protection. Unwanted visitors to this invite-only facility are kept out by numerous security measures, including a bullet proof reception area.

Leave it to those who know a thing or two about security to trust bullet proof glass to keep their valuables safe!

Bullet Resistant Vehicles Available at World Cup

Jim — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 14:47:02 +0000

Safety is always a concern at marquee events – from concerts to sports to rallies and speeches. One of the world’s largest sporting attractions, the World Cup(TM), kicks off tomorrow in South Africa, and it’s no surprise that safety is taking some of the event’s spotlight.

Private bodyguards and GPS tracking systems are available for rental, as are special vehicles to accommodate travel needs. Bullet resistant vehicles are being rented out to World Cup spectators at a reported rate of $2000 a day.

South Africa’s crime rate is among the highest in the world, but some argue that safety concerns regarding the South African venue are media hype. Regardless of what’s truth and what’s hype, some attendees aren’t taking chances while away from the stadium by choosing bullet proof glass to keep them safe.

The Many Faces of Bulletproof Glass

Jim — Wed, 12 May 2010 12:19:31 +0000

Bullet resistant glass (better known as bulletproof glass) is referred to very often in this niche industry. However it is a little known fact that in most cases there is no actual “glass” involved. The three most common forms of ballistic security glass are acrylic, polycarbonate and glass class polycarbonate.

Bullet Resistant Acrylic from Total Security Solutions

Acrylic: Bulletproof acrylic is the most commonly used material for transaction windows and ballistic resistant barrier systems. The acrylic material is available in UL ballistic protection levels one and two. The acrylic also has the option to have an abrasion resistant (AR) coating or be standard acrylic. The abrasion resistant coating comes standard on our level two acrylic and provides protection against cleaning solvents and weather, as well as an increased resistance to the effects of ultra violet light.

Polycarbonate: Bulletproof polycarbonate materials are normally composed of an acrylic core with two polycarbonate caps each side of the secure surface. Polycarbonate materials are available in UL ballistic protection levels one thru three and all three come standard with an abrasion resistant coating. All of the polycarbonate materials that Total Security Solutions offers also have a forced entry rating.

Glass Clad Polycarbonate: Glass Clad Polycarbonate (GCP) materials are composed of inter layers of glass and polyurethane with exterior caps of glass and abrasion resistant polycarbonate. GCP comes in UL ballistic protection levels one thru five and level eight as well. All of the GCP materials that Total Security Solutions offers carry a forced entry level in addition to their ballistic rating.

Now when someone is talking about bulletproof glass you can ask them, “what type of ‘glass’ are you talking about”…if it’s even glass at all! For more information on ballistic materials such as bulletproof glass please visit our website or call us at 866-930-7807

Bullet Proof Glass at its Finest

Jim — Fri, 09 Apr 2010 15:26:45 +0000

There was recently a story in the news that brought smiles to all of our faces here at Total Security Solutions. What was that story about you ask; the use of a bullet resistant barrier to detour a robber away from a bank in Florida. A burglar comically passed a note through the bullet resistant barrier and told the bank teller to “put your hands up”. The bank teller, standing behind a secure sound bullet resistant system, told the thief to “Kick Rocks”, for lack of better word.

Bullet Resistant Barriers

The would be robber was flustered and didn’t know what to do, so burglar took the honorable route (if that’s possible for a bank robber) and turned around then walked out the door. The lawbreaker was found a few hours later after being identified from a missing hubcap on the getaway vehicle. The crook didn’t put up any fight (just like in the bank) and admitted to the crimes immediately.

This just goes to show that bullet resistant systems can prevent crooks and robbers from turning violent in an environment that has a high volume of customers. Systems such as the secure sound bullet resistant system are available from Total Security Solutions to help employees and customers feel safer in a high risk environment.

For more information on systems like the secure sound system follow this link for all of your needs.

Horizontal Slider installed at Marathon Oil Dealer

karenm — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 23:18:35 +0000

A Marathon Oil dealer in an Indianapolis neighborhood that experienced a string of summer robberies knew it was time to play defense when the station was held up twice. While there were no injuries, the cash drawer was cleaned out both times. He called his corporate office and they called TSS. Company representatives took initial measurements at the dealer, then submitted an installation design to Marathon, who approved the design and issued a purchase order. TSS had all materials — new counter top, two horizontal acrylic sliders, ballistic entry door, under-counter ballistic fiberglass on-site in less than two weeks. Installation began at 8 PM and was completed at 2:30 AM, significantly reducing downtime for the dealer.

Rotary Package Processor

Jim — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 17:10:22 +0000

Rotary Package Processor from Total Security Solutions

Like the PE Package Passer (See last week’s blog) the Rotary Package Processor is a great option for convenience stores. However, unlike the PE, the Rotary Package Processor is the perfect option for fast food operations, restaurants and gas stations. This type of Package Processor allows many different (and larger) sized items to be passed back and forth between customers and employees. Like the PE, the Rotary Package Processor is only accessible from one side at a time, meaning that there is not breech possibility

The Rotary Package Processor has many features that are available as well, things such as additional locking mechanisms, integral cash tray protective barriers and three different levels of protection. The Rotary Package Passer comes in one standard size (Box OD 18″ W x 20″ H x 14″ D) as well as custom sizes per customer request and is available in three levels of protection.

For more information on Rotary Package Passers including available sizes and levels of protection click here.

Securing Your Bank Branch with Bullet Resistant Barriers

karenm — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 18:00:33 +0000

After more than six robberies in the past few years, a West Virginia bank branch is exploring new safety measures to prevent future robberies and protect both employees and customers. “Officials talked about possibly closing the lobby, or installing bullet proof glass at the teller line, or armed guards in the lobby, just to name a few.”

Banks researching the installation of bullet resistant barriers or bandit barriers have several options that can be retrofitted into their current facility. The Arch Window System is the most common bullet-resistant barrier, but the Baffle Window System offers unobstructed views and maximum voice transmission. Read more about available bullet-resistant barrier systems.

Read “Bank Officials Discuss Safety After At Least Six Bank Robberies,” http://www.statejournal.com.

Clerk Outwits Robber with Bullet Resistant Barrier

karenm — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 08:30:07 +0000

A little smarts and a bullet-proof barrier prevented a robbery at a Mobile Gas Station in Tamba Bay, Florida. After one robber unsuccessfully attempted to open the cash register of the convenience store, a second robber brought the clerk at gunpoint from the cooler to open it for them.

“Ahmad told the robbers they had to step away so he could close the door to the enclosure around the register or the drawer would not open. When they stepped outside, he shut the door and locked it, putting himself behind the bullet-proof glass, police said.”

Read “Police: Pair attempting robbery weren’t very smart” by Chip Osowski, http://www2.tbo.com.

Image taken from http://www2.tbo.com/content/2010/feb/22/police-pair-attempting-robbery-werent-very-smart/.

Bullet-Resistant Glass Window Finds New Use

karenm — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 15:00:56 +0000

A former bank branch location turned car wash might be hard to recognize if it weren’t for a few trace reminders, like the “product storeroom and its massive foot-thick steel door. Or maybe the former bank’s
bullet-proof glass window, now converted into a coffee table.” As the financial industry continues to struggle, many banks have closed branches providing prime locations for other companies who can see their potential.

Read “Businesses Branch Out From Banks” by Casey Wooten, http://houston.bizjournals.com.

Architect Resources

karenm — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 14:45:52 +0000

Recently, Total Security Solutions renamed its “Resources and Planning Tools” section to “Architect Resources” and added downloadable CAD drawings, as well as PDFs, of each of its bulletproof products. Each CAD drawing provides typical details, including plans, elevations, and sections for products, such as our Arch Window System, Ballistic Counters, and Interior Transaction Window. You can also easily access data sheets, which provide product-related details such as features, available sizes, and finish options, for many of our bullet-resistant products.

Additional resources available for architects, contractors, and other industries include installation videos of a Secure Sound System and Vertical Slider, as well as product demonstration videos of our Natural Voice Transmission Window and Package Passer.

Bullet-Resistant Barriers Installed

karenm — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 15:30:29 +0000

After the planning and production processes are complete, we are ready to install your bullet-resistant barrier. Our accuracy in the initial phases makes for an efficient, mess-free installation.

Your bulletproof products will be carefully packaged and shipped to your facility by truck. Total Security Solutions can begin working shortly after your business closes for the evening or on Saturday so as to minimize the inconvenience to you and your customers. For many installations, we can be in and out within a single night. And we’ll have your facility cleaned up and ready for normal business hours.

Recently, Total Security Solutions launched a channel on YouTube.com to enable customers to watch the bullet resistant barrier installation process firsthand. Currently, we have featured installation videos for our Secure Sound Bulletproof Barrier System and our Vertical Slider.

Read more about our installation process or contact us at info@demandtss.com or 1-800-513-1468.

Bulletproof Glass Can Keep People Out…And In

karenm — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 15:00:42 +0000

Last week, an Illinois inmate attempted to escape from custody at a local courthouse. After being trapped in a skyway, the inmate tried to jump through the bullet-resistant glass smacking his head and enabling police officers to secure him in handcuffs.

Read “Inmate who tried to escape pleads guilty” on abclocal.go.com.

Choosing the Right Level of Protection

karenm — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 16:30:56 +0000

We are constantly referencing “UL standards” when discussing the level of protection our bullet-resistant materials provide, but do you really understand what that means? Read more about UL protection level ratings and how bullet-resistant products are tested. Also, find out more about our Electric Vertical Slider.

Read Total Security Solutions January 2010 newsletter online now.

Bullet Resistant Glass Helps Protect Against "Smash and Grab" Robberies

karenm — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 16:20:19 +0000

In the Handbook of Glass in Construction by Joseph S. Amstock, it states, “Large storefront glass windows at street levels are one of the best ways retailers [ . . . ] have to showcase their merchandise or services. But these areas are increasingly at risk, particularly from ‘smash and grab’ vandalism.” It goes on to state that nearly 70 percent of reported burglaries involved forced entry through windows or doors.

The Missouri Petroleum Marketers and Convenience Store Association (MPCA) recently reported an increasing threat from “smash and grab” robberies for local convenience stores. The MPCA issued a list of security tips to help convenience stores prevent this type of robbery. To “help protect your employees and provide security for your property,” convenience stores should consider:

installing “Bandit Barriers” to keep robbers from getting behind the register counter,
good lighting (interior and exterior), and
two clerks on duty at night.

Read additional tips on protecting your convenience store from “smash and grab robberies.”

Secure Sound Bulletproof Barrier and Vertical Slider Installation Videos

karenm — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 14:10:26 +0000

If you’re considering installing a bullet-resistant barrier in your facility, but are concerned about interrupting business for the actual installation, you will be happy to learn that Total Security Solutions completes many of its installs after hours, finishing before you open the doors for business in the morning. Your system components are precisely designed and manufactured to ensure proper fitting and a smooth installation.

View an installation video for our newest bulletproof barrier, the Secure Sound System, as well as an installation video of our Vertical Slider System. You can also read more about our planning, production and installation process.

Bulletproof or Bullet-Resistant?

karenm — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 16:34:45 +0000

While the industry term for our line of products is bullet-resistant, the more common term is bulletproof. Things like bulletproof vests, however, are not actually bulletproof, but bullet-resistant.

So what does it take to be truly bulletproof? In researching this topic, we found several people asking just that question. Six inches of lead sheathing or one foot of solid concrete could be called “bulletproof,” but the bullet-resistant products available through Total Security Solutions provide excellent stopping power against most common handguns, shotguns or rifles and can be employed in ways that are almost invisible to the undiscerning eye.

So now that we know the correct term is “bullet-resistant,” let’s analyze the phrase “bullet-resistant glass.”

Bullet-resistant glass isn’t really glass, well not completely. There are three types of “bullet-resistant glass,” but only one is actually made with regular glass. Glass-Clad Polycarbonate is made from a piece of polycarbonate that is sandwiched between two pieces of regular glass. The other forms of “bullet-resistant glass” are actually made from a solid sheet of acrylic or laminated polycarbonate.

Image taken from www.technical-discovery.com.

Bullet-Resistant Glass Enclosed Vestibule or "Mantrap" Popular Bank Security Measure

karenm — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 16:15:20 +0000

Recently released FBI crime statistics support the notion that in a struggling economy, the number of bank robberies increases. Chris Mackey, operations manager at Kriebel Security Inc. stated, “We’re [ . . ] seeing increased interest in active security systems that can actually block or trap a robber, as opposed to passive ones, like cameras, that just record the activity.” One of the most popular security options available is known as the “mantrap,” a bullet-resistant glass enclosed vestibule in which customers must pass through a metal detector. If the metal detector is tripped, “a teller can hit a panic button that locks the inside door, preventing the robber from entering the bank. The teller or other official can also lock the street door, too, essentially trapping the robber in the vestibule until law enforcement authorities arrive.”

Read “In down times, bank robbers sticking up” by Martin C. Daks, www.njbiz.com.

How is Bulletproof Glass Made?

karenm — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:17:23 +0000

While we sometimes flip flop between our use of the words “bulletproof” and “bullet-resistant,” the industry term is bullet resistant glass because it would be difficult to create a piece of glass the thickness needed to make it truly bulletproof while still maintaining visibility and communication.

There are two types of bullet resistant glass – solid acrylic and laminated polycarbonate. Solid acrylic is just as its name suggests – a solid sheet of acrylic either 1-1/4” or 1-3/8” thick depending on the level of protection required. Laminated polycarbonate is made by layering polycarbonate, a heavy-duty clear plastic, between two sheets of glass and laminating it all together. It can be ¾”, 1” or 1-1/4” thick depending on the level of protection. While a bullet will pierce the exterior glass layer of laminated polycarbonate, the inner layers absorb the bullet’s energy stopping it from penetrating through the entire piece of glass.

The newest form of bullet resistant glass is one-way bulletproof glass, commonly used in armored vehicles. One-way bulletproof glass is composed of two layers. The outside layer – on the threat side – is made of a brittle glass and the inside layer is a flexible polycarbonate. A bullet that strikes the brittle external layer first causes the glass to break inward toward the polycarbonate layer. The glass breaking absorbs some of the bullet’s energy by spreading the force over a larger area and the flexible polycarbonate stops the bullet.

Bullets shot from the inside of an armored car are able to penetrate the bullet resistant glass because they strike the polycarbonate layer first with more focused energy. The brittle glass layer then breaks outward allowing the bullet to pass through with minor energy loss.

2009 Bank Crime Statistics Indicate Decrease in Robberies in Banks with Bullet Resistant Barriers

karenm — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:29:22 +0000

FBI bank crime statistics are available through June 30, 2009. In a quick analysis of of the first two quarters in 2009 compared to 2008, there has been an eight percent decrease overall in the number of robberies, burglaries or larcenies at commercial banks, mutual savings banks, savings and loan associations, and credit unions. In addition to the decrease in robberies, the percentage of banks with bullet resistant barriers that were targeted decreased nearly 30%. The southern region, however, continues to have the highest number of bank robberies, with Texas followed by Florida, being hit the worst.

View the complete 2009 FBI bank crime statistics for first quarter or second quarter.

Electric Vertical Sliders: Total Security Solutions’ Commitment to Innovation

karenm — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 13:19:55 +0000

While many convenience stores may already have horizontal or vertical sliders installed in their facilities providing varying levels of security at different times of day, Total Security Solutions launched a new product – the Electric Vertical Slider. Demonstrating our commitment to innovation, Total Security Solutions developed the Electric Vertical Slider to provide users ease of opening and closing a transaction window through the use of an electric motor.

In addition, electronic locks are used to ensure maximum security. Photo electric eyes, similar to the operation of a garage door, are installed to ensure safe operation. If an object intersects the laser beam of the photo electric eyes, the slider will stop operation immediately.

The Electric Vertical Slider is available in UL Level 1-3 protection and is ideal for convenience stores, fast food outlets, governmental offices, and other high profile/high traffic facilities.

1-Stop Domestic Violence Center features Bullet Resistant Glass in Reception Area

karenm — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 14:23:19 +0000

Oregon’s Multnomah County was awarded a $300,000 federal grant to open a new 1-Stop Domestic Violence Center in February 2010. “The new facility [ . . . ] will have a receptionist behind bullet-proof glass, and a security guard on duty at all times.” It will feature facilities for children and provide a central place for people seeking help.

Read “City/County: 1-Stop Domestic Violence Center” by Matt Davis, http://blogtown.portlandmercury.com,

Seeking International Distributors for Bullet Resistant Glass

karenm — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 13:19:08 +0000

Total Security Solutions is in the process of seeking out international partners to distribute its bullet resistant glass products. We have previously completed installations in South America, the Caribbean, Australia, Europe, and India, but are looking to grow our business in these areas. If you are a company in one of these locations and are interested in building a partnership with Total Security Solutions, email
info@demandtss.com or call 1-800-513-1468.

Custom Bullet Resistant Glass Nameplate for All Our New Fans and Followers

karenm — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 14:30:42 +0000

Total Security Solutions is committed to providing the best service and is working toward connecting and building a dialogue with our customers. Earlier this year, Total Security Solutions launched a presence on both Twitter and Facebook. With the goal of keeping customers informed about industry news and trends, as well as what’s going on at TSS, we are now working to grow our fan base.

To do so, we’re offering an incentive for the month of October. If you follow Total Security Solutions on Twitter or become a fan on Facebook during the month of October, Total Security Solutions will send you a custom nameplate made from bullet resistant glass!

To receive your name plate, simply follow TSS on Twitter or become a fan on Facebook. Send us an email to info@demandtss.com with what you would like your nameplate to read as well as an address where to ship it. Or, if you find us on Twitter, you can send us a direct message with the above information.

Thinking Outside the Bullet Resistant Barrier

karenm — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 15:51:33 +0000

Wondering what this picture is of? Read about the many unique uses for bullet resistant glass in our September newsletter, now online.

Image taken from http://www.bornrich.org/entry/solitaire-deluxe-watch-winder-another-feather-on-bubenzorweg-s-cap/.

Bulletproof, Dimmable Windows Contracted by U.S. Department of Defense

karenm — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 00:41:48 +0000

GKN Aerospace, a UK-based company, was awarded a $425,000 contract by the U.S. Department of Defense to develop “bullet resistant windows that dim instantly with a touch of a button, providing ‘on-demand’ light control, privacy, and protection from heat, glare, and ultraviolet rays.” The initial design will be used in government VIP armored personnel vehicles, but the company hopes to ultimately make their “SmartShade Windows” available to the civilian VIP market.

Read “Military wants bulletproof, dimmable windows to protect VIPs” by Mark Rutherford, http://news.cnet.com.

TSS’ California Headquarters specialize in providing quality bullet resistant barriers to the local market

karenm — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 13:30:11 +0000

While Total Security Solutions is headquartered in Fowlerville, Michigan, we have a global reach completing bullet resistant barrier installations throughout the U.S., particularly in Florida and California. In fact, Total Security Solutions has been operating in California since 1979 with offices in both northern and southern California.

Our California offices provide the same sales and engineering support available in our main headquarters, but are conveniently located to provide onsite assistance. Total Security Solutions employs a full-time installation crew exclusively servicing the California market. Our crew is fully trained and proficient in meeting California building and earthquake requirements.

Total Security Solutions’ full lineup of bullet resistant products, from custom bulletproof glass barriers to quick ship products such as package passers and currency trays, are available to all businesses nationally.

If you are interested in learning more about our bullet resistant barrier installation capabilities in the California market, please contact us at 1-800-513-1468 or info@demandtss.com.

Image taken from bankofamerica.com.

Battle Over Bandit Barriers Continues in New York

karenm — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 20:02:36 +0000

The battle in New York between the Police Department and bank officials, particulary TD Bank, continues to go on as a bill that would mandate bulletproof barriers sits before the City Council’s Committee on Public Safety. While “banks without barriers represented only 10 percent of the city’s banks, 53 percent of the bank robberies last year occurred in those branches.”

Read “Battle Over Bandit Barriers“ by Michael Wilson, nytimes.com/

Increased Bank Robberies Could Result From Open Layout

karenm — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 03:59:29 +0000

There has been much controversy in New York lately over a bill that would mandate all banks to install bandit barriers. TD Bank has been the major opposition to the bill as they seek to create a more welcoming environment without bullet resistant glass separating tellers and customers.

A recent article on nytimes.com stated, “Relaxed bank security — often driven by an attempt to create a friendly atmosphere, without barriers between tellers and customers — can attract robbers.” Connecticut can attest to this statement as it has been the target of a series of bank robberies in which the robbers casually entered a bank and handed over a note demanding money to the teller.

The article also comments on a trend toward robberies in the suburbs as opposed to the major cities stating, “Many [. . .] officials point to the casual, open layout of many suburban banks — like the TD Bank branch in Westport — as a possible factor in the trend.”

Read “In Suburbs, Bank Robbers Like the Layout” by Michael Wilson, nytimes.com.

Bullet Resistant Glass Vestibule Traps Would-Be Robber

karenm — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 13:58:45 +0000

An attempted robbery in Philadelphia was foiled on Friday when a bank teller “triggered a trap” which locked the man “into a vestibule made of bulletproof glass. Police say he fired his .357 Magnum trying to get out,” but eventually gave up when they arrived.

Read “Alleged Robber Trapped in Bank Doors,” myfoxphilly.com

Image taken from myfoxphilly.com.

Understanding Standard UL Protection Level Ratings

karenm — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 16:03:32 +0000

Security levels for bullet-resistant systems have been established by UL (Underwriters Laboratory), the primary testing organization for materials used in these systems. Each level has been tested and found effective at stopping certain types of projectiles, ones most typically employed during an armed robbery. While ratings extend to Level 8, the needs of most banks, credit unions, and convenience stores are well covered in Levels 1-3. View a chart of standard UL Protection Level ratings.

If you have additional questions on what products UL tests, what they test for, or what UL “standards” mean, read an interview with UL’s Director of Consumer Safety.

Read “Speaking with UL consumer safety director John Drengenberg” by Claude Solnik, http://libn.com.

Bullet Resistant Acrylics from an Industry Leader

karenm — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 12:47:06 +0000

Total Security Solutions is continuously striving to offer the best products and best service to its customers. Our lineup of bullet resistant acrylics is manufactured by an industry leader, Evonik CYRO. We offer bullet resistant acrylic in a variety of standard sizes in-stock and ready to ship, including 4’ x 8’, 5’ x 8’, 6’ x 8’, and 5’ x 6’.

All sizes come in UL Level 1-3 protection and are available uncoated or abrasion resistant coated. The edges of the bullet resistant acrylic are flame-polished providing a water clear edge ensuring maximum clarity and light transmission.

Evonik CYRO has been manufacturing ACRYLITE® and advancing the plastics industry for the past 75 years. ACRYLITE is UV-stable, won’t yellow over time, has one of the highest light transmission rates of any plastic, and is known for its superior impact strength. ACRYLITE also offers ease of fabrication as it is easily “sawed, routed, drilled, cemented, thermoformed, painted or silkscreened.”

Check Cashing Stores: Urban Blight or Convenience?

karenm — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 18:13:56 +0000

While New York officials are still contemplating a bill that would require local banks to install bullet proof barriers, one Maryland county is now considering a proposal to require check cashing facilities to limit their hours, install bullet resistant glass and hire guards.

Read “Check Cashing Stores: Urban Blight or Convenience?” wtop.com

Arch Window System most Commonly used Bullet Resistant Barrier

karenm — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 13:24:29 +0000

When a bank or credit union decides to install bullet proof barriers in its facility, they have many different options to choose from. The most common barrier system installed in major retail banks is the Arch Window System. Other barrier systems include Baffle Window, Secure Sound, and Speak Hole and Backer. All four types of bullet resistant barriers provide financial institutions, convenience stores, and government facilities UL Level 1-3 security without obstructing staff/customer interaction. All barriers can also be customized to include cash trays, both counter-mount or recessed.

The oldest bulletproof barrier is the Baffle Window System. Dating back nearly forty years, this system provides unobstructed views through the use of staggered pieces of bullet-resistant glass and also offers natural voice transmission. The Arch Window System was designed approximately 15 years ago to update the Baffle Window concept and improve voice communication. The Secure Sound System wasn’t developed until four or five years ago and enhances voice communication even further.

Ultimately, a bank or credit union’s bullet resistant barrier selection is based on personal preference. Each barrier system offers a slightly different architectural appeal enabling financial institutions to customize their facility.

Bulletproof glass standard in presidential limousine

karenm — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 20:32:20 +0000

Bullet proof glass may not be an option you need for your vehicle, but for individuals like President Obama, it comes standard. The newest Cadillac Presidential Limousine takes cues from a variety of Cadillac’s vehicle line-up and weighs in “at more than 10,000-lbs. Most of that is due to thick, bullet-proof glass and armor plating throughout. Even the tires are resistant to attack and contain innerliners just in case the outer tires are damaged.”

View a slideshow of Cadillac Presidential Limousines dating back to Taft’s presidency and read “Cadillac presidential limousines from Taft to Obama – history and review” by Craig Hover, Kansas City Automotive Examiner.

Bentley is getting in on the security vehicle business with their Continental Flying Spur. For $500,000, it “features military-grade B6-level protection and is fitted with ballistic steel, [ . . . ] bulletproof glass, run flat tires, an explosion-proof gas tank and kevlar flooring.”

Read “Bulletproof Bentley Flying Spur on sale for $500,000,” 4WheelsNews.com.

Bullet Resistant Security for Convenience Stores

karenm — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 14:54:27 +0000

Just as banks are a common target for robberies, convenience stores face the same challenge as a result of their late hours. Many convenience stores do not have the protection of bullet proof glass and most clerks are advised not to respond if a theft is underway.

“It happens all the time. It’s not something that happens once in a blue moon,” Ali Zaidi said of the trend in robberies at stores such as his.

Some convenience stores, however, are taking steps to safeguard their employees by installing bullet resistant barriers. The most commonly used barriers for convenience stores are horizontal or vertical sliders. Providing UL Level 1-3 security, these bulletproof barrier systems can be customized to provide different levels of security at different times of day.

Read “Too Often, Convenience Store Clerks in Danger” by Carl Lewis, www.macon.com.

One-way Bulletproof Glass and Armored Cars

karenm — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 14:38:44 +0000

Bulletproof glass offers protection to those seeking safety, but sometimes individuals must respond with force and not just hide. The idea of one-way bulletproof glass has been around for some time and improved upon over the years. The objective is to stop bullets from entering from the outside but allow them to exit from the inside. This is commonly used in armored cars to protect passengers while enabling security guards to fire out of the vehicle.

The government used its first armored car in 1941 with President Franklin D. Roosevelt. After fear of a presidential assassination following Roosevelt’s “Infamy Speech,” the Secret Service used Al Capone’s recently confiscated 1928 Cadillac to transport the president. Capone had outfit the vehicle with “3,000 pounds of bulletproof armor beneath the standard body” and painted it to replicate the existing government vehicles. Read more about Al Capone’s bulletproof car and why the government couldn’t afford to purchase its own. (Image on right taken from FederalTimes.com)

How does one-way bulletproof glass work?

One-way bulletproof glass is composed of two layers. The outside layer – on the threat side – is made of a brittle glass and the inside layer is a flexible polycarbonate. A bullet that strikes the brittle external layer first causes the glass to break inward toward the polycarbonate layer. The glass breaking absorbs some of the bullet’s energy by spreading the force over a larger area and the flexible polycarbonate stops the bullet.

Bullets shot from the inside of an armored car are able to penetrate the bulletproof glass because they strike the polycarbonate layer first with more focused energy. The brittle glass layer then breaks outward allowing the bullet to pass through with minor energy loss.

What do Bank Robbers and Pirates have in common?

karenm — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 19:15:05 +0000

Yesterday, I stumbled across an article relating the increase in pirate attacks on shipping companies to the increase in bank robberies. The article, titled “The Robbery Business” was published on observer-reporter.com and the author was questioning why more banks aren’t taking extra steps, like installing bulletproof glass, to protect themselves against bank robberies.

The author stated, “‘Why wouldn’t shipping companies do more to protect themselves against Somali pirates?’ [ . . . ] it was cheaper for the companies to pay the ransom than to take precautions against kidnapping.” He went on to say, however, that just as the pirates will keep pirating, bank robberies will continue to occur until banks do something to prevent them.

The shipping companies may not be taking precautions to protect against pirates, but some wealthy yacht owners certainly are. As fears rise over the potential for pirate attacks, “hidden chambers, escape pods, tracking devices and ex-marines employed as security guards have all risen in popularity.”

Read the full article on how “Wealthy Arm Their Yachts with Military-Level Security” by Anouk Lorie, CNN.com.

The Evolution of Bullet Resistant Glass

karenm — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 13:47:35 +0000

The Bullet Proof Glass industry evolved from a series of accidental discoveries dating back to the 1640s.

The idea of tempered glass was first discovered by Prince Rupert of the Rhine, when he dropped hot molten glass into cold water. The glass rapidly cools but only on the surface, creating a shell for the hotter glass contained inside. As the inside cools, it contracts against the already hardened exterior creating a compressed chamber and making the glass substantially more durable. This lends itself to high impact resistance.

The idea of laminated glass evolved from another accident. This time, by the French chemist Edouard Benedictus in 1903. While working in his lab, Benedictus accidentally dropped a beaker that was coated in plastic cellulose nitrate. He noticed when the beaker hit the ground it cracked, but did not split apart in pieces.

Benedictus went on to register the first safety glass patent in 1909 after bonding a piece of plastic cellulose between two sheets of glass. Using Prince Rupert’s method of immediately chilling the glass, the safety glass becomes much stronger and if it does crack, it will not shatter.

Today, there are two types of bullet resistant glass: solid acrylic or laminated polycarbonate. Solid acrylic is just as its name suggests – a solid sheet of acrylic either 1-1/4” or 1-3/8” thick depending on the level of protection required. Laminated polycarbonate is made by layering polycarbonate, a heavy-duty clear plastic, between two sheets of glass and laminating it all together. It can be ¾”, 1” or 1-1/4” thick depending on the level of protection. While a bullet will pierce the exterior glass layer of laminated polycarbonate, the inner layers absorb the bullet’s energy stopping it from penetrating through the entire piece of glass.

Bulletproof Glass Foils Bank Robbery

karenm — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 01:49:34 +0000

A man in Northwest Arkansas, Timothy Barnes, was arrested after two bank robbery attempts. During his first robbery attempt, he “discovered the tellers were behind bullet proof glass, a bank security measure that prevented Barnes from getting anything from tellers during the Friday heist.”

Read “Rogers Man Admits to Robberies” by John Henley Jr., NWAOnline.net.

Bulletproof Glass Used in Declaration of Independence Preservation

karenm — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 03:10:35 +0000

We found it appropriate at this time of year, in honor of Independence Day, to highlight a few interesting facts about the Declaration of Independence. Did you know…

Benjamin Franklin was the oldest signer of the document at age 70.
Steps to preserve the Declaration of Independence were not taken until 1951 when the document was sealed in a bronze, bullet proof glass case at the National Archives in Washington, DC.
Independence Day was not declared a legal holiday until 1944.

Read more interesting facts about the Declaration of Independence and enjoy your holiday weekend!

Banks and Police Clash Over Proposal for Bulletproof Barriers

karenm — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 02:36:42 +0000

After a 26% spike in first quarter bank robberies following a 57% increase in 2008, the New York City Council proposed a mandate that would require all bank branches to install bulletproof glass barriers. This morning, the Council’s Public Safety Committee held a hearing for bank industry officials to express their concerns over the “bandit barrier” legislation.

“Bulletproof fortifications around tellers in banks — known as “bandit barriers” [. . .] — have pitted banks and the police against each other in a policy argument over safety, expense and businesses’ rights to manage their own security.”

Read “Banks and Police Clash Over Proposal for Bulletproof Barriers” by Dominick Tao, The New York Times.

Banking on bandit barriers: Bill would make them mandatory in city

karenm — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 15:46:16 +0000

Taken from nydailynews.com.

By Frank Lombardi

Bank stickups will be the talk of City Hall on Monday.

With the backing of Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly, the City Council is moving ahead with a bill to mandate that all 1,698 bank branches in the city erect “bandit barriers” around their tellers.

The bill specifies that bullet resistant barriers or partitions be installed to prevent individuals from getting access “to the protected area where the tellers transact business.”

Failure to erect such barriers will carry a fine of up to $1,500 for each violation, plus an additional fine of as much as $1,500 if the violation isn’t corrected and a $1,000 fine for each day the violation goes uncorrected.

Many banks do have such barriers, but the tougher ballistic standards required in the bill might force them to build new ones.

Banking industry officials will get a chance to sound off at a public hearing this morning being held at City Hall by the Council’s Public Safety Committee.

The bill was prompted by a 26% spike in bank robberies during the first quarter of this year, on top of the 57% increase in robberies last year over the prior year.

However, industry officials report that the robbery rate has fallen since March. A total of 135 robberies were reported through June 23, compared with 192 for the same period last year – a drop of 30%.

In the past, Kelly has expressed special concern about the bank branches now owned by TD Bank, which acquired Commerce Bank last year. The 73 TD/Commerce Bank branches around the city were hit by robbers 46 times last year.

None of the TD Bank branches have bandit barriers; the lack of them is intended to give customers a more inviting atmosphere.

Lawrence Sherman, a criminologist who is a consultant for TD Bank, said, “Not one customer or employee has been injured in the course of a robbery” at any TD/Commerce branch in the city since they began operating in 2001.

But the bill’s main sponsor, Councilman Oliver Koppell (D-Bronx), blasted TD Bank’s lack of barriers, saying: “Chase branches all have the barriers; so do Citibank’s. It’s crazy they are so adamant” about not having them.

Bullet proof

karenm — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 17:56:09 +0000

New security measures discussed for City Hall following a scrap between a Councilwoman and a Council “regular.”

Taken from LansingCityPulse.com.

By Angela Vasquez-Giroux; published Wednesday, June 17, 2009.

An East Lansing prosecutor has declined to press assault charges against a Lansing City Council gadfly after an altercation with a Councilwoman last month, but efforts to beef up security at Lansing City Council meetings are ongoing.

Third Ward Councilwoman A’Lynne Robinson was involved in an altercation with Charlene Decker, one of Robinson’s constituents, after a May 28 Council Committee of the Whole meeting. Robinson sought an assault charge claiming that what started as an argument over public comment rights ended in a physical altercation.

“After reading the police report and conferring with the victim, I did not issue assault or assault and battery charges, simply because the touching did not appear to be intentional,” Tom Yeadon, an East Lansing prosecutor, said.

Robinson had accused Decker of grabbing her finger, which allegedly happened as Robinson swatted Decker´s finger away as Decker pointed it in her face. Lansing City Attorney Brig Smith was a witness to the incident, which is why Yeadon was given jurisdiction over the case.

While Yeadon was determining whether to file charges, Robinson held a meeting with City Clerk Chris Swope, Lansing Police Department Capt. Edward Forrest, Council administrative assistant Therese Horn and Smith.

The outcome was a list of suggestions, like locking doors and holding all meetings in Council chambers.

But loftier suggestions would have the saloon-style doors that separate Council from the audience fitted with electronic locks controlled by the Council president. Earlier this year, Lansing resident Barry Schiffer kicked open those doors and angrily approached Council after a profane tirade — including talking about is AK-47 — that ended with him being subdued by police.

Other ideas include adding bulletproof glass to the barrier separating the audience from the Council and installing cameras in stairwells and other areas around Council chambers.

First Ward Councilman Eric Hewitt says that he doesn´t think safety is an issue and wondered aloud about the cost of the safety measures.

Robinson, however, feels the security is necessary. For Robinson, the direct access to Council by the public is a concern. Rules were changed recently so that members of the public are no longer able to access the hallways behind Council chambers.

The escalation in incidents over the past six months has shown a need for increased safety measures, Robinson said.

“I don´t know that state legislators have been threatened with AK-47s, or called racial epithets,” she said after being informed that there is less security in some state buildings. “We have.”

Redstone Arsenal Gate 7 gets federal money for improvements

karenm — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 19:28:42 +0000

Taken from The Huntsville Times; published June 17, 2009

A U.S. House subcommittee has approved $3.5 million for security improvements at Redstone Arsenal’s Gate 7 entrance on Martin Road, according to U.S. Rep. Parker Griffith.

The money – included in the Pentagon’s 2010 construction budget – will be used to build a guard house, canopy, guard booths and a covered vehicle inspection station. Anti-terrorist protections measures, including security lighting, bullet resistant glass at the guard house and booths, among other upgrades, are also included in the cost.

The project must now be approved by the House Appropriations Committee for Military Construction and the full House and signed by the president.

Secure Sound Bullet Proof Barrier Installation

karenm — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 13:22:01 +0000

Total Security Solutions recently completed a bullet proof barrier installation in a national financial institution. The secure sound bullet resistant barrier system incorporated bulletproof transparencies, bullet resistant fiberglass, and currency trays. Secure sound bullet proof barriers, as well as Arch Window and Baffle Window systems, are typically utilized by banks, credit unions or check cashing facilities because they provide a friendly access portal for staff/customer interaction, an architectural appeal, and security from UL Level I to Level III.

In addition, we provided bulletproof wood doors, which are made of plastic laminate or wood veneer over fiberglass bullet-resistant sheathing, with or without vision windows.

Police to beef up security at headquarters

karenm — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 20:28:09 +0000

Taken from The Miami Herald.

By Julie Landry Laviolette; published Friday, June 12, 2009.

One year ago today, a 58-year-old man called 911 from the parking lot of Davie police headquarters on Nob Hill Road. He told the operator he had a 38-caliber gun and was going to shoot himself.

Officers were dispatched to the scene. They secured the parking lot and tried to talk the man out of it as he stood next to his vehicle, the gun to his head. But they were unsuccessful.

That suicide was one of the catalysts that prompted the Davie Police Department to plan a lobby renovation to increase security. Construction will begin later this summer and is scheduled to be completed by the fall, said the city’s public information officer, Maj. Craig Richards.

”The world is becoming more violent and police are becoming more of a target,” Richards said. “At our front desk are volunteers, civilians, light-duty officers — people who are not used to being in confrontations and are not armed. Why not take steps to protect your people?”

The $250,000 project will add bullet-proof glass to the reception area, where citizens can file police reports and request records. A portion of the lobby hallway will be sealed off with a desk and bulletproof glass and the old records room will be used as a juvenile holding area and for other needs. The number of video surveillance cameras already has been increased from 19 to 41.

An interactive computer kiosk also will be added to the lobby to allow residents to file police reports online that don’t require immediate attention, eliminating the need for an officer to come off the street to take every report, Richards said.

The project will be paid for with impact fees the town allots to the police department to improve its services.

The renovations will put the Davie headquarters on par with many other police departments, which typically use bulletproof glass and other security methods to protect personnel, Richards said.

Police Chief Patrick Lynn, who wasn’t with the Davie Police Department when its headquarters were completed in 1999, said he doesn’t know why the additional security measures weren’t in the initial plans.

”I don’t know, but times have changed” in the post-Sept. 11 world, he said. “We have managed it and we are managing it.”

Richards speculates the idea of community policing and a community-friendly look was more popular before Sept. 11. ”Unfortunately, some people want to make a statement and take the police with them,” Richards said. “We arm our people and put them in bulletproof vests. Why not arm our building?”

Other developments at the Davie Police Department include:

• A partnership with www.nixle.com, where residents can register to receive updates about neighborhood crime, school lockdowns and other Davie Police Department news by e-mail, text or through a website. Residents can complete a free registration at www.nixle.com.

• The Police to Citizen program, which will allow residents to search and retrieve any police reports that are public record and online. This system should be up this summer, Richards said.

• A 7,648-square-foot indoor shooting range is being planned at the headquarters. The $2.6 million project will be paid for with funds seized from drug arrests, Richards said. Officers now train at Markham Park’s shooting range in Sunrise.

”This will actually save taxpayers money,” said Chief Lynn. “We pay $12,000 a year to use the Markham Park range. We won’t have to do that anymore.”

Caring for your Bullet Proof Glass

karenm — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 02:34:41 +0000

Cleaning and maintaining abrasion resistant or uncoated bullet proof acrylic.

DUSTING: Dust bullet resistant acrylic with a soft cloth or chamois, wiping gently. NO paper towels.

WASHING: Wash bullet resistant glass with a mild soap or detergent and lukewarm water solution. Use a clean soft cloth or natural sponge and as much solution as possible. Rinse well. Dry by blotting with a damp cloth or chamois. Grease and oil are best with hexans, kerosene or aliphatic naptha. AROMATIC COMPOUNDS MUST NOT BE USED.

ANTI-STATIC COATING: The anti-static coating on bullet proof acrylic successfully prevents the accumulation of electrostatic charge. Between applications of the anti-static coating, bullet resistant glass only needs to be dusted with a soft damp cloth or chamois. Mild detergents (for example 1% Joy in water) provide good anti–static properties while serving as excellent cleaners for bullet proof acrylic.

POLISHING: After cleaning and polishing, the bullet resistant acrylic may be waxed with a good grade of commercial wax. Waxing will improve the appearance of the bullet proof glass by filling in minor scratches. The wax should be applied in a thin even coat and brought to high gloss by rubbing lightly with a soft dry cloth.

SCRATCH REMOVAL (for uncoated bullet proof glass): Most minor scratches can be removed by hand polishing. The polish should be applied with damp pads of soft cotton flannel and rubbed parallel to the scratch in a straight back and forth motion. Excessive rubbing at one point should be avoided. Electric buffers should not be used; they will form depressions in the surface of the bullet resistant acrylic causing optical distortions.

DO NOT USE:

Window cleaning fluids
Scouring compounds
Gritty cloths
Leaded or ethyl gasolines
Strong solvents such as alcohol, acetone, carbon tetrachloride, lacquer thinners, Windex, etc.
NO PAPER TOWELS

‘Red Line Robber’ strikes again in River North

karenm — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 14:56:58 +0000

Taken from STNG Wire Reports.

Published Monday, June 8, 2009.

A bank branch in the River North area was robbed Monday afternoon and the FBI suspects the “Red Line Robber,” who is believed to have struck at least eight banks.

The robbery happened about 2:25 p.m. at the Charter One Bank branch at 33 W. Grand Ave., according to police News Affairs Officer JoAnn Taylor.

The robber — who unconfirmed sources said was wearing sunglasses — displayed a weapon, though he did not fire it, and no one was injured, Taylor said. He got away with an undetermined amount of cash, and there was a dye pack included, Taylor said.

Investigators believe the robber is the “Red Line Robber,”who is a serial bank robber now suspected n eight thefts from Chicago banks dating to January, FBI spokesman Ross Rice said. He earned his name because all of the branches are located near CTA Red Line stations.

Further details about Monday’s incident were not yet available and FBI agents remained at the scene as of about 4 p.m., he said.

The most recent robbery Red Line bank robbery occurred May 12 at the MB Financial Bank branch at 1 E. Wacker Dr. The day before, the same robber entered the Chase Bank branch in the 6400 block of North Sheridan Road but left without attempting a robbery after he apparently noticed the teller’s area was encased in bulletproof glass.

He is described as a black male with medium build, 30 to 35, 6 feet to 6-foot-2 and 200 pounds. He has worn sunglasses, a dark-colored baseball cap and a black colored bomber jacket during most robberies.

He is considered armed and dangerous because he carries a handgun, and the FBI believes he rides the CTA to and from the robberies.

A $10,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the identification of the suspect. Anyone with information should call the FBI at (312) 421-6700.

New Bullet Proof Speak Thru Windows for Natural Voice Transmission

karenm — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 14:34:43 +0000

Total Security Solutions recently added a new accessory to its line of bullet proof products – the TSS-MK1 Talk Thru. Promoting natural voice transmission through the use of evenly spaced louvers, the TSS-MK1 Talk Thru is made of stainless steel and has a 6” diameter. It is designed to fit bullet resistant glass that is .25” to 1.875” thick and provides up to Level 3 security according to the UL (Underwriters Laboratory) bullet resistant materials rating system.

The TSS-MK1 Talk Thru can be integrated into a variety of bullet proof barriers in which voice communication is important, such as bullet resistant transaction windows or bullet proof walk-up windows commonly found in banks or convenience stores.

Due to Total Security Solutions’ in-house manufacturing capabilities, the TSS-MK1 Talk Thru is available at a siginificantly reduced cost in comparison to other similar bullet proof products. To order the TSS-MK1 Talk Thru, call 1-800-513-1468 or email info@demandtss.com.

Royal suite at Four Seasons stays booked

karenm — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 13:35:10 +0000

Taken from The Washington Business Journal.

By Tierney Plumb; published Wednesday, May 27, 2009.

The Four Seasons Hotel unveiled its 4,000-square-foot royal suite — the biggest in D.C. — just in time for Inauguration Day, and it has steadily accommodated royalty and celebrities in its first few months of existence.

It is the Georgetown hotel’s sixth suite, and its amenities include a wooden private patio, gym, library, Bang & Olufsen systems and bullet-resistant glass.

Designed by Anderson/Miller Ltd., the suite is accented by wool and silk blend rugs, rich woods and iridescent shell detail.

The foyer welcomes guests with a Swarovski crystal ceiling shining down on sparkling stone mosaic tiling. The dining room, which fits 10, sits adjacent to a 1,000 square-foot outdoor patio with a fire pit that overlooks Georgetown.

Complimentary perks at the $12,500-per-night suite include car service and a personalized shopper. While the 222-room hotel remains mum about guest lists, the first to stay during Inauguration — reportedly Oprah Winfrey — did a “happy dance” when she entered the suite, said a spokeswoman. The suite is currently booked for the first half of June with many tentative bookings for the coming months, she added.

For guests traveling with entourages, the entire wing the suite lives in can be closed off to include eight bedrooms totalling nearly 9,000 square feet.

Selecting a Bullet proof Glass Barrier System

karenm — Thu, 28 May 2009 15:12:34 +0000

The following is a list of items to consider when researching and selecting a bullet resistant barrier system.

Level of protection: UL Level I to Level III.
Type of system: arch, baffle, or secure sound.
Type of material: acrylic or polycarbonate.
Type of coating: uncoated or abrasion resistant coating intended to prevent scratching during general cleaning.
Provide a friendly access portal for staff/customer interface by selecting a bullet proof barrier system that promotes natural voice transmission.
Your bullet resistant barrier system should be free-standing to provide clean, unrestricted site lines enabling surveillance cameras clear access through the system to eliminate check fraud.
All acrylic or polycarbonate edges should be sanded and polished for a clear, professional finish.
For increased security, add ballistic fiberglass in knee spaces and risers.
Slot Louvers added above your bullet resistant barrier system can increase air flow.

Modern Marvels features Total Security Solutions in upcoming episode on Bank Security and Bullet Proof Glass Barriers

karenm — Thu, 21 May 2009 21:05:06 +0000

The crew of Modern Marvels, a History channel documentary show, spent a day at Total Security Solutions’ facility in Fowlerville, Michigan filming and conducting interviews for an upcoming special on bank security. The episode will address all aspects of bank security, but Total Security Solutions will be the only company featured in the field of bulletproof glass.

Jim Richards, the Vice President of Total Security Solutions, spent Monday, May 18th showing the Modern Marvels crew around their facility and walking them through the bullet proof glass barrier manufacturing process. Jim discussed the most common bullet resistant barriers, including arch window and baffle window systems.

Total Security Solutions also demonstrated how a bullet resistant barrier system goes from a single sheet of bullet resistant transparency – either acrylic, polycarbonate, glass-clad polycarbonate or bullet proof glass – to a complete bullet resistant barrier. Using a computer-driven manufacturing process, Total Security Solutions is able to take a precise architectural CAD drawing and output all the required system components to their exact specifications.

Modern Marvels focuses on technology, the history behind it, and how it is used in today’s society. The bank security episode is scheduled to air in October/November 2009.

Another Wachovia Bank Robbery in Seal Beach–5 So Far This Year in West Orange County To Date

karenm — Tue, 19 May 2009 22:13:03 +0000

Taken from OC180NEWS.com.

By: The Editors, Dolores and Dave Barr

Just 10 days after it was robbed earlier this month, the Wachovia Bank in the Towne Center shopping area at 12310 Seal Beach Blvd. was robbed again this past Friday. This is the third robbery of a Seal Beach Wachovia Bank and the fifth West Orange County bank robbery this year. Unlike the other 2 Wachovia robberies, this time, the suspect did not use a bicycle to escape.

In addition to the 3 robberies at Wachovia Banks, there has been one at the Bank Of America in Los Alamitos, and one at the Washington Mutual in Seal Beach. The FBI arrested Brian Keith Robinson, 49, of Los Angeles, in connection with the January 10 robbery of the Seal Beach Washington Mutual bank. The other suspects remain at large.

On Friday, May 15, 2009 the Seal Beach Police Department received a call via the emergency 911 system which indicated the Wachovia Bank located in the Towne Center shopping area had just been robbed. Responding Officers contacted employees of the bank and found that a male subject had entered the bank and walked to a teller window, presented a note and demanded money. The suspect then ran southbound through the parking lot, out of sight.

The robbery suspect is described as a male black in his 30’s with a medium complexion, a bushy moustache, 5-8 in height, having a muscular build. The suspect was wearing a light “hoodie” sweat shirt, a dark golfer’s type of cap, with dark knee length pants and dark shoes.

There was no weapon seen and the suspect was last seen on foot. The loss was an undetermined amount of cash. Anyone that may have additional information is requested to contact Detective Gary Krogman at the Seal Beach Police Department (562) 799-4100 extension 1108.

Total Security Solutions' Site Redesign

karenm — Tue, 19 May 2009 19:25:18 +0000

Total Security Solutions recently launched its new web site at www.demandtss.com. The goal of the redesign was to minimize the number of clicks it takes users to find the bullet-resistant product(s) they are searching for, as well as provide online ordering capabilities.

The following are a few new features to check out:

Order Now

Easily request additional information on any bullet resistant product featured on the Total Security Solutions web site by clicking the Order Now button under the product image. You will also be able to select other products that you are interested in on the same request form. Your submitted request will be forwarded to our sales team for immediate attention.

Resources

We have also enhanced our Resources and Planning Tools section enabling architects, contractors, and other industries interested in bullet resistant barriers easy access to view and download product images, detailed spec information, and CAD drawings.

Protection Level

For quick reference, use the Protection Level rating system affiliated with each bullet resistant product to select the appropriate product for your security needs. Read more about the UL Protection Level Ratings.

Police Stress Deterrence Measures as Bank Robberies Surge in the City

karenm — Sat, 14 Mar 2009 15:03:36 +0000

Taken from NYTimes.com.

By: Al Baker

One bank robber is aggressive. He always waves a black or silver pistol. He often pulls a scarf over his face and shouts orders to the tellers.

Robbing a bank with partial “bandit barriers,” the thief passed a note and got cash, the police say.

Five days later, at a bank without barriers, the police say, the thief again used a note and got cash.

The other is more passive. He passes notes across the counter and walks away if rebuffed. He wears a hat and glasses and strikes mostly late in the day.

The police say these two men have hit bank branches 24 times in New York City this year, and are largely why the number of bank robberies, after surging last year, is on track to be even higher in 2009.

“We’ll get them,” said Deputy Inspector Charles P. Neacy, sitting at 1 Police Plaza with files on the two robbers in his hands. “As they keep doing them, we are able to pick up additional evidence, whatever it might be.”

Police Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly has expressed concern over the frequency of bank robberies and the seeming ease in carrying them out, particularly at certain branches. He met in January with executives of major banks to push a set of “best practices” for security that were developed in 2003, during the last wave of robberies. Inspector Neacy, who commands the Major Case Squad, has followed up with branch managers.

Now, in the face of a surge, Mr. Kelly said he might push for a city law first contemplated six years ago to require dividers of reinforced glass between customers and tellers, along with other measures he believes would help deter the crimes and lead to more arrests.

He said that he was happy with the cooperation he was getting from most banks, but that he had met some resistance from TD Bank, which detectives say is vulnerable because of an environment bank officials see as more inviting than daunting, with open counters and no partitions. “I am not satisfied with their response,” the commissioner said of his talks with TD, which bought Commerce Bank last year.

Rebecca Acevedo, a bank spokeswoman, said TD followed most safety recommendations but eschewed “bandit barriers” because studies showed that they heightened chances for danger.

“We believe the bandit barriers place customers and employees at risk because they cannot all be behind the barriers,” she said. “So that means it increases the likelihood that a customer or employee could be subject to violence or used as a hostage.”

Besides barriers, the police want banks to use guards or greeters — TD branches do this — who might deter would-be criminals by their presence. They also want banks to use dye packs when filling bags with cash, to put height markers by doorways to determine heights of suspects, and to have countertops on which a robber can leave fingerprints.

Michael P. Smith, the president of the New York Bankers Association, a group that represents commercial banks and thrift institutions in the state, including 1,600 branches in the city, said he would prefer that banks tailor their own security plans rather than have blanket directives foisted upon them by law.

“There is a difference of opinion in security, from a consumption standpoint and a law enforcement standpoint, about whether bandit barriers provide a deterrent,” he said. “Our view is that every possible security procedure should be explored, and I know that the individual banks that have been mentioned, that don’t have bandit barriers, are having conversations with the department to either put in bandit barriers or make other security enhancements.”

The police say that banks with barriers do get robbed, but that their data shows it happens less often than at banks with no barriers. For instance, TD Bank has one of the highest instances of being robbed: This year, there have been 11 robberies among its 69 branches, while there have been 6 among Chase’s 275 branches.

To make the point, Inspector Neacy said that the note-passing thief tried to hit three Chase branches on March 2, before giving up because at each branch a teller — behind bullet-resistant glass — walked away. The suspect then went to a TD Bank with no bandit barriers. “He passes a note and gets cash,” he said.

Last year, banks were robbed 444 times in the city, more than one robbery for each day — and a 57 percent increase over 2007. The police figures reflect all holdups, regardless of whether a suspect left with cash.

This year, bank robberies through March 11 increased to 80 from 54 in the same period last year. More often than not, the thief is caught; since Jan. 1, the police have made arrests in 65 cases, though some were for robberies that occurred before 2009.

Surveillance video and other clues have led officers to believe that the same gun-wielding man has robbed bank branches 11 times and the note-passer 13. All but one of those robberies were in Manhattan.

The note-passer has struck between 4 and 5:30 p.m., entering a bank and producing a note that states he has a gun and wants money. Twice, he hit the same HSBC branch at Eighth Avenue and 14th Street.

Once, in an apparent slip-up, he passed a blank piece of paper, prompting the teller to say, “What’s this?” He left. The police described him as white, about 25 years old, 5 feet 10 inches to 6 feet, and 160 to 190 pounds.

The second suspect is intimidating and persistent. “If one teller refuses, he’ll go to another,” said David Caskey, the bank robbery coordinator for the F.B.I. and Police Department’s Joint Bank Robbery Task Force, formed in 1979.

That man usually walks in wearing a hat and gloves, pulls a scarf over his face and waves a gun. He is black, in his mid-30s, 6-foot-2 to 6-foot-4, and 195 to 225 pounds.

When the police arrest suspects, detectives ask them about their methods and why they pick the banks they do.

“What they tell us is they’re looking for the easy hits,” Inspector Neacy said.

Bank robbery suspects trade information in jail about easy marks, he said, and jail guards at Rikers Island have even found notes that inmates wrote to teach other inmates how to do it.

“They were practicing,” Inspector Neacy said.

Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly tells TD Bank to put public safety first after heists

karenm — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 15:09:05 +0000

Taken from nydailynews.com.

By: Alison Gendar

Bandits have hit TD Bank branches 11 times this year – prompting the NYPD to send management a warning letter saying its banks are the most vulnerable in the city.

Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly wanted TD, which took over Commerce Bank, to beef up security.

“It is simply unacceptable to put business decisions before public safety,” Kelly wrote.

As if to prove Kelly’s point, a prolific thief successfully robbed $1,000 from a TD branch on Ninth Ave. Monday – after being rebuffed at three Chase branches.

The difference between the two banks: Chase tellers work behind protective barriers; TD’s transactions are in the open.

This same thief is wanted in 12 bank robberies in Manhattan since Jan. 26, police said.

Such repeat offenders are why heists at all banks jumped 57% last year and are up 26% through March 1 this year. TD, which has 69 city branches, accounted for 17% of the robberies this year.

Arrests are also up – 88% – but Kelly and the NYPD’s major case squad have launched a campaign to deter holdups by getting banks to redesign branches that look more like living rooms than places to safeguard cash.

The NYPD wants barriers in front of teller’s windows, eye-level cameras and countertops designed to leave clear fingerprints – and sources said Kelly might ask the City Council to mandate some security measures.

If banks don’t comply, the NYPD will push legislation requiring bandit barriers, high-ranking police sources said.

JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo and Capital One have started retooling security. TD has made no promises.

“We don’t believe saying that we have a disproportionate amount of robberies is a fair portrayal of us,” TD spokeswoman Rebecca Acevedo said.

Chase installed imposing teller barriers, new counters and eye-level cameras at its bandit-prone 355 Lexington Ave. branch. Similar changes are planned for its other WaMu branches.

In 2008, 21 of Wachovia’s 24 branches were robbed. Wachovia’s new owners, Wells Fargo, lost no time this year to revamp two branches. Capital One has put in bid to install so-called bandit barriers.

Anyone with information in regard to these incidents is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS (8477).