Security Glass: Creating a Line of Defense

When it comes to protecting people, assets, and operations, glass is often the weakest link. Standard glazing can’t stop a rock—let alone a bullet or determined attacker. That’s where security glass comes in.

Whether you're upgrading a retail storefront, planning for school safety, or designing a secure financial institution, understanding your glazing options is critical to creating a truly secure space. But not all “security” glass is created equal—and picking the wrong one could leave your people vulnerable.

Let’s break it down.

Key Takeaways

• Security glass includes laminated, bullet-resistant, tempered, acrylic, and polycarbonate options, each designed for different levels of threat.
• UL 752 and ASTM standards are the benchmarks for forced-entry and ballistic resistance.
• Security film adds shatter resistance but does not stop bullets.
• Choosing the right system depends on your specific risks, operations, and infrastructure—and TSS can help with all of it.

Why Security Glass Matters

Security glass is one of the most effective tools in physical security. A well-placed ballistic barrier or impact-resistant panel can stop an attacker, delay intruders, or buy critical seconds for people to get to safety.

Here are just a few reasons why businesses, schools, healthcare facilities, and government agencies across the country are investing in it:

• It stops or slows an attack. Most violent incidents are fast. Security glass delays attackers and deters opportunistic violence.
• It keeps your team protected. Employees are most vulnerable in areas where they are consistently present or easily viewable from the outside.
• It gives peace of mind. Visible security reduces anxiety and sends a message: we take safety seriously.

The Standards That Matter

Not all glass labeled “bulletproof” or “security-rated” is reliable. That's why third-party testing is critical. Below are the standards that separate marketing claims from real protection:

UL 752 – The Gold Standard for Ballistic Protection

Parameters established by Underwriters Laboratories, UL 752 outlines how many rounds a product can stop—and from what caliber of weapon.

• Levels 1–3: Protection against handguns (9mm, .357, .44 Magnum). Most commonly used in schools, retail, and offices.
• Levels 4–8: Protection against rifles, shotguns, and high-powered rounds. Used for high-risk government or defense facilities.

TSS uses UL 752 as a baseline for bullet-resistant glazing across all projects.

ASTM Standards – Forced Entry and Impact

• ASTM F1233: Evaluates resistance to blunt objects like hammers, crowbars, or axes.
• ASTM F3561: Simulates an active shooter attack followed by forced entry. While not a ballistic test, it’s a vital measure of how long glazing holds up after it’s been shot.

Types of Security Glass

Each type of security glass serves a specific purpose. Some are designed to resist bullets, others to delay forced entry. Here’s what you need to know:

Tempered Glass

Tempered glass is heat-treated to make it stronger than normal glass. It breaks into small, dull pieces instead of sharp shards. Great for safety, but not rated for security.

Laminated Glass

This glass sandwiches a polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or other interlayer between glass panes. When struck, it holds together rather than shattering. With proper thickness, it meets UL 752 ballistic standards.

Acrylic

Clear and lightweight, acrylic can stop up to UL 752 Level 2 threats. Ideal for interior barriers, teller stations, and customer service windows. It’s affordable, but prone to scratching.

Polycarbonate

Polycarbonate is extremely tough and resists repeated blunt-force impacts. It's often used where forced-entry resistance is the priority.

Security Film

Applied to existing glass, this film holds broken glass in place, delaying entry and reducing injuries. It’s not bulletproof but is a low-cost upgrade for glass in low-risk areas.

Choosing the Right Security Glass

The best security glass depends on your threat level, usage, and environment. Here’s how to think through your decision:

1. Define Your Threats

What are you trying to protect against—handguns, break-ins, or random vandalism? UL Level 1–3 glass typically protects against the most common threats in commercial and educational settings.

2. Know Your Building

Older buildings may need reinforced framing. Heavier ballistic glass requires structural engineering to ensure safe, long-lasting installation.

3. Consider Operations

Will the barrier interfere with business flow? TSS engineers custom passers, talk-thrus, and access controls so your team stays productive while staying protected.

4. Budget Appropriately

Higher protection levels cost more. That’s why early planning—and realistic expectations—are critical.

5. Aesthetics Matter

Security doesn’t mean your space has to feel like a bunker. Our bullet-resistant glass is designed to blend in, not stand out.

Why Partner With Total Security Solutions

TSS is a full-service ballistic partner. Here’s what you get when you work with us:

• Decades of Experience: 20+ years securing schools, banks, healthcare, retail, and corporate spaces.
• End-to-End Service: Site assessments, engineering, custom fabrication, and expert installation.
• Tailored Solutions: Systems built to your exact threats, layout, and budget.
• Support at Every Step: From first quote to final walkthrough, we’ve got your back.

Choosing security glass isn’t just about stopping bullets—it’s about protecting people, preserving operations, and planning for the future. We’ve helped thousands of organizations do just that.

Ready to build smarter, safer, and stronger? Contact a TSS expert to start your security glass project today.