Given the cost and complexity of installing bulletproof materials, replacing every school window and door with a bulletproof alternative is not a viable option for most education budgets. This means that administrators have to make hard choices about how and where to install ballistic barriers in a way that maximizes the safety of the learning environment.
For most schools, the most cost-effective and practical place to start is by securing the main entryway.
The Benefits of Ballistic Barrier Entryways and Security Doors for Schools
Securing school entryways first is a best practice for a reason. If you can funnel all visitors to one secure entryway or mantrap, you can trap them there and prevent potential assailants from even entering the building. This also requires a security protocol to actively moderate people passing in and out, verify visitor identities, and lock any suspicious parties in the vestibule or mantrap if necessary.
The benefits of security doors for schools are also pragmatic. Oftentimes, school entryways can be made bulletproof by replacing existing materials with bulletproof ones. This means the school gets the benefit of increased security with minimal disruption to the academic atmosphere. Plus, this system can be added to at a later date, enhancing its effectiveness as more pieces are added. For instance, many schools choose to add bulletproof windows to the school office and additional bulletproof doors to section off other parts of the school building. All of these elements help protect from lesser threats, like burglary.
Five Tips for Increasing Security with Bulletproof Doors for Schools
If you’re considering bulletproof doors for schools at the front entryway, these tips will make your project more successful.
1. Follow Best Practices and Have Everyone Enter Through the Mantrap
A secure mantrap can work in a few different ways. Once a person enters the mantrap, the exterior door could lock behind them, requiring ID verification in order to continue to the interior of the building. While a mantrap is made to restrict access, you can also choose to restrict exits, or you can allow unrestricted exits. You can also restrict the mantrap to a single person at a time, or allow multiple people through. It all depends on the level of security you want to implement, and what makes sense for your district.
2. Make Sure the Mantrap or Entryway Is Able to Be Used as Designed
Regardless of the style of mantrap or vestibule you choose, it’s incredibly important that it works when you need it. If an assailant does gain entry, you must be able to lock the doors from the reception area or office. Testing and drills help make these actions reflexive, and avoid panic responses.
3. Consult with a Security Professional to Choose the Appropriate Threat Level and Other Security Features
One of the best ways to avoid any pitfalls is to hire an experienced professional who can provide guidance on the best solutions for your building. There are different levels of bulletproofing protection, and a security expert can help you understand what level will best suit your threat assessment findings.
4. Don't Use Security Window Film in Place of Bulletproof Glass for Your Entryway
Security window film is not bulletproof, but it may help with forced-entry break-ins if it is installed correctly in the appropriate location. For most schools we work with, we recommend reliable bulletproof protection at this critical point in the building.
If you’re considering bullet-resistant glass and barrier systems, you should only trust manufacturers whose material is independently tested to a nationally-known standard. At TSS, all our products are independently tested to UL 752, which is the go-to standard for bullet-resisting equipment.
5. Remember, You Can Always Add More Security Later
If you can’t add all the security features you want all at once, don’t worry. Start with the budget and resources you have and work towards your goals bit by bit. A security expert can help you understand the best place to start when your current budget doesn’t fully cover your security goals.
There might even be funding in your state for ballistic security improvements. Safety in education is a tantamount, and many states are supporting bulletproof security development.
TSS: Experienced School Security Professionals Ready to Help
If you’re ready to enhance your educational security measures, you need a trusted partner to ensure you preserve the learning environment as you increase safety. At TSS, we prioritize the aesthetic appeal of our bulletproof barriers, so that even though you may be adding ballistic products, you can preserve your school’s open, inviting atmosphere.
For personalized advice for your district or school, don’t hesitate to reach out. You can call us at 888.591.9483 or contact us for more information, or to get started on the quoting process.