In many parts of the US, the major threat to a busy government office or university building is not a terrorist cell or a lone gunman—it’s severe weather. High winds from storms can turn everyday objects into deadly projectiles. More and more, Architects are using bullet resistant glass, fiberglass panels, and ballistic glass clad polycarbonate (GCP) to weatherproof buildings against tornadoes and hurricanes.
The National Weather Center in Oklahoma Sets the Standard
In 2006, the US National Weather Service built a nine story, $67 million National Weather Center in Norman, Oklahoma. This facility is located in the infamous Tornado Alley and houses government employees and university researchers studying the prairie’s volatile and shifting weather patterns. Prior to 2006, this team was housed in fragile temporary structures. The new facility was designed to withstand 144mph winds (equivalent to an F2 tornado). Also included in the design are safe rooms constructed with bullet proof panels and bullet proof glass that can withstand 261318 mph winds (equivalent to an F5 tornado).
Total Security Solutions Helps Architects Make Innovative Use of Ballistic Materials
Stronger buildings mean safer people. But many architects are frustrated to discover that their options with ballistic materials are severely limited because most bullet proof companies are unable or unwilling to explore new uses for these materials. Enter Total Security Solutions, an innovator in the industry. “When it comes to commercial bullet proofing for buildings, we’ve driven a lot of tech into this industry,” says Total Security Solutions CEO Jim Richards. This includes CNC lathes, routers, and water jet cutters, which allows TSS to produce intricate designs at exceedingly fine tolerances, either as individual pieces or in large, reproducible lots.
The team at Total Security Solutions doesn’t just have the requisite equipment and experience for a top notch, custom design and installation. They also embrace a design process that is inquisitive and flexible, dedicated to finding the best solution for a the clients specific needs. Jim and his team look forward to working with designers and architects interested in using familiar ballistic materials in new ways.
Architects: For more information about the best way to incorporate durable bullet resistant materials into your private or commercial design, call Total Security Solutions today to speak with a design consultant. For a detailed, self paced introduction to bullet resistant materials and design, visit our online resource center, which includes videos, specifications, data sheets, and the free ebook “Architects Resource Guide to Bulletproof Glass.”
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