Bullet Resistant Panel Designs For Architects

Gun violence is a reality that has affected many across the world and architect strategies must be employed to ensure a suitable level of protection. Bullet resistant barriers can be important to include in many vulnerable facilities including commercial, financial, schools, residential, law enforcement, military and much more. They can be used in many different areas of the building including behind walls, desks, counters, furniture, and doors.

The most frequent question we get when talking to architects is, how do I choose a bullet resistant panel for my design? When choosing a bullet resistant panel, it is important to consider the type of protection needed. There are a handful of questions we recommend asking yourself to understand what is needed from these bullet resistant panels. These questions include threat level, interaction within the facility and the facility structure.

Threat Level

The threat level is important to take into consideration when choosing the panel level that is needed. For example, is the threat coming from criminals with pistols, explosive blasts, forced entry or hurricanes?

The different levels of each panel are manufactured to assist with different levels of threats. In addition, each panel is tested and proven to be UL 752 certified.

Interaction Within The Facility

The next question architects should keep in mind is how active workers or customers are in the protected area? Is the protected area near an entrance or exit? How much square footage do we have for the protected area? Lastly, how many people will be in the area at once?

All these questions are important to understand because it will help with compiling your design and identifying the areas of opportunity to apply the panels for maximum protection.

Facility Structure

Lastly, facility structure overall is important to understand because a bullet resistant barrier essentially divides a room into two separate areas. Therefore, HVAC systems, lighting power and data supply will need to be arranged within your bullet resistant panel design.

ArmorCore offers free online courses for architects which provides 1 Learning Unit for AIA and more organizations. This course addresses bullet-resistant fiberglass composite panels and the need for architectural armoring.

The topics covered include:

• ballistic material testing and standards
• the types of ballistic materials available
• fiberglass composite panel applications, installation & maintenance considerations

View the complete list of crediting organizations and login to AECDaily to take the course. If you are interested in a live presentation featuring a Waco Composites sales representative, please call 1 (866) 688-3088 or go to the Quick Info Request page.