There are a variety of products that can imbue a construction or building with bullet-resistant capabilities. These include bulletproof windows with bullet-resistant glass, bulletproof doors formed from aluminum or steel, and walls containing fiberglass panels that offer ballistic protection. A bullet-resistant construction is a secure one, offering a means of defense to its visitors. Its bullet-proofing abilities means it has the power to resist certain projectiles and keep people from harm. The construction’s ballistic resistance not only delivers protection to counter bullets, but also acts as a deterrent and helps stop other incidents, such as forced entry.

Bullet-resistant constructions must comply with building codes to ensure they work as intended. The codes help bullet-resistant constructions to deliver quality and meet regulatory requirements. Let’s consider bullet-resistant construction codes and compliance in further detail.

Understanding Building Codes

Building codes consist of standards and regulations that define a building’s design and construction. They can relate to the building’s foundation, clarifying its minimum depths and materials, seismic design, wiring, plumbing fixtures, and accessibility. These codes are what stand between new constructions and potential problems. If these regulations are not abided by, the consequences could include structural issues, delays with the project, or fines.

Following Codes and Delivering Compliance With Bullet-Resistant Constructions

Standards for Bullet Resistant Products

A number of standards exist that define the protective abilities of bullet-resistant equipment and structures. One of the most utilized standards is UL 752, a standard created by the underwriters laboratories (UL). It consists of 10 levels that determine the strength of a product, as well as the types of projectiles and firearms it protects against. The differing levels can help architects to select the right amount of protection for their constructions. Moreover, they provide a means of verification that shows how the bullet-resistant materials or products will perform.

Aside from UL 752, there are other standards that can be used to assess bullet-resistant constructions. These include:

  • The National Institute of Justice (NIJ): Although mainly applied to body armor, the NIJ Standard 0108.01 can also be applied to materials.
  • ASTM F1233-09: Utilized for understanding glazing materials
  • EN 1522/1523-09: A European standard used for doors, windows, blinds, and shutters.

Testing And Certification

The aforementioned standards are extremely useful for providing the testing and certification of various bullet-resistant products. They deliver standardization and a framework for product comparison. Testing and certification are different processes. However, they’re both essential for ensuring bullet-resistant constructions offer excellent performance and comply with any building codes.

Here are the differences between testing and certification:

  • Testing: Bullet-resistant constructions and products are tested to see what their performance is like at that moment.
  • Certification: While testing only focuses upon the product during a certain time, certification incorporates testing alongside ongoing analysis. Certification tends to be undertaken by third-party groups, such as the underwriter’s laboratories, and delivers factory inspections to ascertain production quality. It will also take into consideration any alterations to the design and materials that may impact performance. By certifying a ballistic-resistant construction, it can be confirmed as reliable and will act as intended.

Bullet-resistant constructions require both testing and certification to ensure they comply with standards, like the UL 752, and deliver the expected level of quality.

Material Choices

Another thing to be wary of are the materials used to make bullet-resistant constructions. Materials for these constructions include fiberglass, ceramic, and steel. However, the choice of which materials should be used may depend on building codes. The following items could be affected:

  • Doors: The selection of door materials may depend on whether it needs to adhere to standards that require it to have the ability to withstand both projectiles and fire.
  • Glazing: A specific kind of bullet-resistant glazing, such as polycarbonate, or a level of thickness may be required.
  • Walls: Certain materials, such as fiberglass panels, may be needed for creating walls in bullet-resistant constructions.

Make sure to stay informed about the types of materials required by building codes. That way, they can be added to a bullet-resistant construction while following all standards.

Armortex Can Assist You With Your Bullet-Resistant Constructions

Remaining compliant with building codes can make sure that bullet-resistant constructions are formed in line with standards, such as UL 752, that can confirm their bulletproofing capabilities, enhance their designs, and ensure they’re secure enough to protect people when an incident occurs.

If you’re interested in producing a construction with bullet-resistant properties, the products at Armortex could be what makes all the difference. We have so many products available, like bulletproof windows, bullet-resistant doors, and deal trays. Each can help you ensure your bullet-resistant construction can remain strong against projectiles. Take a look at the products we have to offer by visiting our website. We’re ready to help you make your bullet-resistant construction live up to all your expectations and more.