Bulletproof Glass

Introduction

If you’re like me, the words “Bulletproof Glass” conjure up images of bank robbers, casinos, and military Hummers. The reality is that bulletproof glass is much more common than you think and as a business owner you may well be considering obtaining some if you need to separate your staff from physical harm. This harm may be from the public as your business is in a heavy traffic area like a retail store or ticket booth or your staff is protecting assets that may be the target of criminals, like a bank situation.

Bullet proof glass is just not for the President, movies stars and police offices but can be applied in many areas to protect your business and staff. It is very effective in separating your staff with the outside world when it is beneficial for your staff to be able to see through the protection barrier like in a ticket booth, bank or a retail store in a high crime area.

If you have a business where you have a separator between the public and staff, like a ticket kiosk or convenience store then you might want to upgrade the plexiglass to bullet proof glass. A barrier can protect your staff against a rowdy public or an assailant with a knife, but bullet proof glass can protect your staff from armed criminals.

What is Bulletproof Glass Made From?

The truth is that there is no such thing as bulletproof glass. There are varying degrees of bullet-resistant glass though some of which can withstand some pretty intense gunfire but no one piece of glass can withstand any weapon or explosion. Bulletproof (resistant) glass is typically made up of a transparent material called polycarbonate thermoplastic (usually seen in banks and protects from small arms fire) and some newer glass with aluminium oxynitride which is much stronger. Another common application is a form of glazing used mostly for vehicles that offer a form of protection.

Depending on your business needs another choice exists in the form of one-way bulletproof glass. The glass will protect from bullet fire from only one side only. This allows the ability to shoot back from behind the glass and is used most commonly is situations such as in armored cars. This type of glass uses a flexible layer in between the glass panes.

How does Bulletproof Glass Work?

Each glass appears see-through with the inclusion of multiple layers of laminated sheets that helps to divert its kinetic energy over a larger surface area which slows down the bullet. Thickness and weight are important if you are buying bulletproof glass as it affects your cost as well as determines the strength of the glass. A rifle typically can fire a bullet with more force then a handgun and thus would need a thicker piece of glass to prevent the penetration of the bullet. Companies offer varying thicknesses and protections ranging from a thickness of 3/4” and weighing 5 lbs per sq.ft to a thickness of 1.25” and weighing approximately 8 lbs per sq.ft. Glazing for vehicles is typically a smaller thickness ranging from 3/8” to 1/2".

Conclusion

As a business owner who may need bullet-resistant glass, examine all of your options before proceeding to ensure that you have the proper thickness and weight to deal with whatever security needs of your business.