What Are Active Shooter Windows and Doors?

Because a systems approach to security is the best way to guard against threats, our active shooter protection window system includes glazing and frames all independently tested to specific standards.

These elements are key for windows and doors that stop bullets and help protect access points, buy time for law enforcement response, and keeps people safe. Here are three common standards and how they apply:

  • UL 752, the most common standard for bulletproof protection, indicating how many shots and from what type of weapon materials can withstand

  • ASTM F1233, a test for security glazing systems that evaluates ballistic resistance and forced-entry testing, demonstrating a system can withstand being struck repeatedly by blunt and sharp objects as well as heat

  • ASTM F3561, a method for testing a system's resistance against forced entry in a simulated attack in which someone shoots the door or window repeatedly and then tries to break in
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How Much Do They Cost?

A single bullet-resistant window can start at about $2,000, while bulletproof doors typically start around $3,500. Costs depend on the size, materials, and level of protection required. This does not include framing, accessories or installation, so it's important to account for those costs in your planning. We’ll walk you through your options and help you prioritize protection that fits your budget.

Active Shooter Window System

Our Active Shooter Window System has been independently tested to industry standards for both forced entry and bullet resistance, including: 

  • ASTM F3561 Forced Entry Resistance of Fenestration Systems After Simulated Active Shooter Attack (Level 8)
  • ASTM F1233 Standard Test Method for Security Glazing Materials and Systems (Class 2.0 - Body)
  • UL 752 Standard for Bullet-Resisting Equipment (Level 3)

This means it is not only capable of resisting bullets from handguns, but after rifle fire weakened the system in a forced entry attempt, it could still withstand the impact of 16 heavy pendulum strikes per the ASTM F3561 standard. 

Unlike wet-glazed systems that rely on adhesives to seal glazing into a frame, our dry-glaze method is a simpler solution we can deliver with the fastest lead times in the industry. 

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ForceGuard ASW - Post ASTM F3561 L8 Testing

Where Active Shooter Protection Matters

Bulletproof_Entryway2From schools and healthcare facilities to corporate lobbies and government buildings, this system delivers the dual protection architects and specifiers expect, protecting the public while giving facility managers and building owners peace of mind.

  • Education -  Some schools have introduced mandates requiring physical security upgrades, including securing entrances and exterior ground-floor windows. These systems protect students and teachers from shootings and forced entry threats while ensuring compliance with the law.
     
  • Retail - Approximately 30% of workplace fatalities in the retail sector were homicides, according to 2023 Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Attackers frequently target people in sales-related jobs, such as cashiers. Installing forced-entry resistant windows and doors can delay attacks when seconds count.

  • Government and municipal buildings - Public counters and side doors and windows can be vulnerable to break-ins or targeted attacks.

  • Healthcare facilities - Nearly 60% of all nonfatal injuries involving days away from work in the private sector were in healthcare or social services in 2023, per 2023 BLS data. These installations can keep emergency response personnel safer while they work to save lives.

  • Corporate offices - Lobbies, reception areas, and executive offices can all benefit from security glazing without sacrificing visibility and aesthetics.

What Makes This A Highly Effective Solution

  • Forced-entry mitigation - These materials can withstand sustained, attacks with tools including sledgehammers and prybars after ballistic impact to slow entry, buying time for law enforcement and emergency response personnel to arrive.

  • System-level performance - Our active shooter windows meet the ASTM F3561 intent. System testing matters because intruders often exploit the weakest link, which may be the frame.

  • Exceptional clarity and visibility - Because they are all-glass, these solutions have high levels of light transmission, preserving natural light and visibility so law enforcement and staff maintain situational awareness.

  • Resistant to weathering and solvent damage - Unlike acrylic and polycarbonate glazing which is more sensitive to exposure from the elements and cleaning agents, the all-glass material is easy to clean and highly durable.

Why Choose Total Security Solutions?

With more than 30,000 buildings protected, Total Security Solutions is the trusted national partner for ballistic and forced-entry protection. 

Our trained team can also manage installation or provide consulting and support for your general contractor or glazier. Because everything is managed by our in-house experts, we consistently deliver with the fastest lead times in the industry.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between active shooter glass and conventional security glass or window film?

Active shooter glass is tested to withstand both gunfire and attempted forced entry. This means that after an attacker shoots the glass, it still resists being smashed through, buying time for people to get to safety and for first responders to arrive.

Security window film can hold glass shards together, but it is not ballistic-rated and does not stop bullets or determined intruders.

Can we keep our existing window frames?

In most cases, you will need to replace existing frames with those tested to the same standards as the glazing, especially if you want to ensure your windows and doors meet ASTM F3561-22, which is a systems test. Our team can recommend the right solution.

What is the lead time for active shooter protection windows?

We’re proud to offer some of the fastest lead times in the industry because we manufacture everything in-house with U.S.-based suppliers. We recommend beginning your planning at least a couple months ahead of your anticipated installation so you can meet your timeline.

How long does installation take?

Most projects can be installed within a day or two. We often work overnight or during off-hours to avoid disrupting daily operations. For larger or more complex installations, our project managers will build a schedule that minimizes downtime.

Do you handle installation, or do I need to hire a contractor?

We provide full-service installation nationwide with our own factory-trained crews. If you already have a contractor, we can supply detailed drawings, specifications, and consultative support to ensure a seamless installation.

What kind of maintenance do these windows require?

Our glass systems are easy to clean and highly durable. Unlike acrylic or polycarbonate, our all-glass solutions resist scratching and weathering. We’ll provide you with care instructions, and our team is always available if questions arise later.

Physical Security Resources

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Bulletproof Glass for Schools: Trends and Statistics

See how new threats and legislation are changing school security.

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How to Assess and Bulletproof Your School

Prepare for threats with practical, step-by-step security planning

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The Ultimate Guide to Ballistic Security

Get everything you need to know to plan your bulletproof security project, in one place.

Get the Guide >
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TSS Is Your Trusted Partner for Physical Security

When you need to keep your business and your people safe, TSS is proud to help. We are passionate about equipping teams with the security they need. To learn more, request a free consultation with one of our ballistic experts. We’ll meet with you in a no-strings-attached meeting to learn about your budget, threat level, and goals. We’ll also provide recommendations about how to achieve those goals. We look forward to speaking with you!

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