Case Study
The Archdiocese of Philadelphia

Administrators at the Archdiocese of Philadelphia's (AOP) schools were concerned about the rising number of school shootings around the country. They decided to install bulletproof entryways and reception windows.

Archdiocese of Philadelphia
archdiocese of philadelphia schools

The Problem: Unsecured Main Entryways

Although the AOP’s schools have a good safety record, administrators decided to take a more proactive approach to safety across all of their high school campuses. The AOP began by working with the Pennsylvania State Police to conduct security assessments.

Security recommendations from the State Police included having just one main entrance with a secure vestibule and a process for screening visitors. AOP needed to find a ballistic barrier manufacturer with the capability to design and fabricate a custom solution for each school’s unique entryway and coordinate installation around other building improvements like adding accessibility ramps.

TSS' Systems Approach

Project Consulting

The AOP began working with an engineering firm, T&M Associates, who recommended Total Security Solutions to help design and fabricate the ballistic barrier. Bob George
was the first point of contact at TSS. After learning about the project’s background and goals, he recommended a UL Level 3 secure vestibule with locking interior doors and a Level 3 transaction window to facilitate visitor check-in.

project consulting
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DESIGN & ENGINEERING

Designing the barrier system was an involved process as TSS had to coordinate with multiple teams—T&M Associates, school administration, general contractors, and the security vendor that handled the existing cameras and intercom system. TSS completed onsite measurements to help ensure each component was precisely fabricated to fit the existing space. 

FABRICATION & ASSEMBLY

Lead times for various components were an ongoing challenge. Continued supply chain shortages made some parts, like microchips for door hardware, extremely difficult to source. Sarah Runyan, TSS Project Manager, helped the various teams stay coordinated with a shared planning tool to track order deadlines, lead times, and overall project progress.

To help work around supply chain issues, TSS mixed and matched individual door hardware
parts from various manufacturers and assembled the finished components onsite.

Delivery & Installation

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Vestibule

To create a secure vestibule at Cardinal O’Hara High School, TSS fabricated and installed a Level 3 system with storefront-style interior doors, multiple interior windows, and custom-painted ballistic framing to match the surrounding aesthetic.

"The barrier at Cardinal O’Hara fits perfectly in the space and looks like it has always been there. It’s been amazing to see how each system matches the look and feel of the surrounding architecture. We look forward to working with TSS on similar upgrades to the rest of the high schools in our system.”

David Magee
Chief Financial Officer, Archdiocese of Philadelphia Schools

The original installation date was December 2022, but TSS managed to complete the project a full three months ahead of schedule. TSS Installation teams worked during the night and on weekends and did not disrupt normal school hours. 

The final solution creates a secure entryway, makes it easy for staff to check in visitors securely,
and blends seamlessly with the surrounding look of the building. Every detail was accounted
for, including the placement of fire alarm boxes and security cameras. 

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Office

Office staff needed a way to screen visitors before allowing them into the school. TSS installed a Level 3 aluminum voice around (AVA) transaction window with a recessed currency tray. This style of transaction window includes secure air passages along the sides to facilitate natural voice transmission and clear lines of sight.

With the new window, staff can safely welcome visitors, learn about the purpose of their visit, and verify their ID. Visitors may also be asked to wait in the secure vestibule until a staff member or security officer arrives to escort them into the building.

Bulletproof Components Used

One bulletproof window or door does not instantly create a more secure school. It takes a variety of products working together to achieve a solution that fits your security and aesthetic needs.

bulletproof glass

BULLETPROOF GLASS

bulletproof doors

BULLETPROOF DOORS

bulletproof frames

BULLETPROOF FRAMING

bulletproof transaction window

BULLETPROOF TRANSACTION WINDOWS

One More School, Secured

Since 2004, TSS has helped countless schools and educational facilities increase their bulletproof protection without compromising on budget or aesthetics. Our unique systems approach to security and experience with educational budgets and timelines ensure we can find a solution that works for everyone.

A PDF version of this case study is available if you'd like to learn more about our work with the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. 

Download the Case Study PDF
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Request a Consultation From TSS

TSS is ready to help make your bulletproof school project a success. Whether you’re coming to us with engineered plans or you’d like to talk through your options, TSS is on your side. To get started, reach out to us and request a consultation. We look forward to speaking with you!

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About TSS

About TSS 
Founded in 2004, TSS’ purpose is simple: to be the industry leader in protecting people and property from physical attacks. Our professional in-house design, manufacturing, and installation teams enable us to deliver total security solutions that are customized to your needs with the fastest speed to completion and an exceptional customer experience. Today, with staff and locations nationwide, we have secured tens of thousands of buildings, ensuring daily Physical Security for What Matters Most™.