Jim Richards | |
As crime trends shift, businesses of all sizes are under pressure to increase physical security.
Robbers increasingly are turning their attention to smaller local establishments they perceive as softer targets, especially in the financial sector where they can net thousands of dollars in the time it takes for law enforcement to respond, especially if the call is outside the city limits.
These locations often lack security features found at national chains, making them vulnerable to threats.
That means if you’re a general contractor, subcontractor or glazier, you’ve likely already fielded the question: “Can you help us install bulletproof glass?”
What they really want but may not realize they need is a fully integrated system that includes bullet resistant barriers, reinforced counters, transaction windows with talk-thru systems, and other features to provide additional layers of protection.
Here’s what you need to know about making these updates.
If you’re interested in learning more, check out our guide to implementing ballistic barrier systems.
What Is a Bandit Barrier?
A bandit barrier is a custom-designed security partition typically located at a teller line or transaction counter that prevents bank robbers from jumping the counter to access cash registers.
These systems are up to 90% effective at thwarting armed robberies. The National Credit Union Administration notes FBI crime data showing as many as 70% of bank robbers had no prior experience, and the presence of bullet resistant barriers is one of several elements that significantly deterred them.
Bandit barriers also protect employees from gunfire or physical attacks while maintaining clear communication between tellers and customers, whether they are installed at banks, convenience stores, or other retailers.
They are typically part of a broader security infrastructure that includes surveillance cameras, guards, alarm systems and other protective measures.
Why Install a Bandit Barrier?
The biggest reason is deterrence.
Robbers don’t want to work harder than they have to, and if they see it's unlikely they'll be able to gain access, they'll be much less inclined to target that location. These systems also offer protection during an incident, giving employees time to hit the panic button and take cover in a robbery attempt.
There’s also the regulatory angle. The National Credit Union Association's Code of Federal Regulations required every federally insured credit union to develop a security program that protects offices from robberies and burglaries. While it does not specify what the program should include, a barrier system is often part of that plan.
When it's specified for new construction or included in the scope of a renovation project, that responsibility often falls on the contractor.
The best bandit barriers also preserve the overall aesthetic and function of the space. They should enhance the overall appearance, rather than detracting from it.
Components of a Bandit Barrier System
Understanding the core components of a bandit barrier can help you select the right materials and avoid costly change orders or delays.
At Total Security Solutions, we engineer these systems to perform under pressure, maintain clear communication, and blend seamlessly into your design.
Here’s what goes into a professional-grade bandit barrier:
Bullet-Resistant Materials
Every bandit barrier should start with bullet-resistant glass or glazing tested to the UL 752 standard, the industry benchmark for bullet resistance. Most financial institutions and retailers use materials tested to UL 752 Levels 1-3, which is designed to stop multiple rounds from common handguns.
They are typically made from acrylic, polycarbonate, or glass-clad polycarbonate.
Watch this video to learn more about your options for ballistic glazing.
Baffle Window System With Speak-Thru Systems
Clear communication is an essential part of any customer experience, so bandit barriers often include transaction windows such as a baffle window system, which allows for the best natural voice transmission.
There are other options for speak-thru systems, including hole-and-backer systems, natural voice rail or aluminum voice around systems that have special openings to allow sound to travel through the frame.
Deal Trays and Package Passers
Safe and efficient transactions require the right accessories. Deal trays and currency trays allow for secure cash and document exchange. For bulky items, package passers can be designed to accommodate items in a variety of sizes.
Ballistic Fiberglass Panels Below the Counter
Bullet-resistant glazing is the most visible part of a bandit barrier, but ballistic fiberglass panels can also be part of the system, creating a protected space where staff can take cover during an incident. TSS uses panels that meet the same UL 752 protection levels as the glazing.
What Are Best Practices for Installing Bandit Barriers?
Ballistic barriers are unforgiving. The glazing is heavy, the tolerances are tight, and once something is fabricated, there’s no modifying it on-site.
To ensure a perfect fit, every element needs to be carefully planned. Here are some important things to consider:
- Get exact measurements. It may sound obvious, but barriers that don't properly fit your existing space won't offer the protection they were intended to provide. If they are too tall or wide, they'll add weight and cost to your project. Our installation team measures to 1/32 of an inch.
- Install ballistic framing to support the weight. Without proper support, bulletproof barriers won't stay standing and won't effectively protect people. Use ballistic framing that has been tested to the same UL standards as the glass or glazing you use.
- Confirm your design complies with code requirements. That includes ADA requirements, fire codes and and any local building code requirements.
- Specify and order any hardware before installation. Hardware or accessories like deal trays often have longer lead times (sometimes several months) and need to be ready to install along with your barrier system.
- Use proper tools for installation. Don't risk damaging the glass or glazing. Work with a professional installer if you don't have the equipment and experience handling bullet-resistant materials.
- Make sure the building owner knows how to clean the barrier. There are specific recommendations for cleaning bullet-resistant glass to avoid crazing, or small cracks that can spread across the surface.
With so much to consider and so much at stake, many contractors choose to work with our experienced team.
We can handle every aspect of the project, from designing, engineering and fabricating a complete custom system to delivering and installing it.
We can fabricate glazing to match existing finishes or new designs, and we offer a wide range of accessories, including cash trays, drawers and speak-thru systems for transaction windows.
Why Contractors Trust Total Security Solutions
Whether you want us to design, manufacture and deliver, or handle the full installation, we’ll meet you where you are and make your project painless.
In our more than 20-year history, we've completed over 30,000 custom security projects, including installing bandit barriers at thousands of banks, credit unions, retailers, and convenience stores.
Every element is custom-fabricated to fit your project’s exact specifications, and every material is tested to UL 752 and common standards for forced entry.
We ensure a perfect fit while promising the fastest lead times in the industry. Most importantly, we get the job done right the first time so you don't have to deal with frustrating change orders or delays.
When you work with TSS, you’re doing more than checking the box on security; you’re delivering a thoughtful system engineered and tested to withstand real-world threats.
If your client is asking about bullet-resistant security or if it’s already included in your specs, talk to us today to answer your questions and get a quote.
If you'd like to learn more about a potential timeline for your next project, download this checklist.
