Window Films for School Safety and Security

More and more educational institutions are taking measures to proactively protect our communities with school safety and security window film solutions. In 2023, Texas took sweeping measures to provide students and faculty with added peace of mind, mandating all schools within state borders to implement minimum safety standards, including security window film. 

After Texas’s example, schools across the nation followed suit, investing in safety and security window film to resist forced entry and protect students in the event of a threat. 

How Do Window Films Aid in School Safety and Security?

Window films offer a practical and effective solution to bolster school safety and security for several reasons:

• Deters intruders. Security window films make it significantly harder for intruders to break through glass, delaying entry and providing valuable response time.
• Protects against shattered glass. In case of an impact, whether from an intruder, accident, or natural disaster, the film holds the glass together, minimizing the risk of injuries from flying glass shards.
• Enhances building integrity. Window films can reinforce the structure of windows and doors, helping to prevent them from breaking during extreme weather events like hurricanes or tornadoes.
• Reduces UV damage. Window films protect against harmful UV rays, helping to reduce the fading of furniture and protecting the health of everyone inside.
• Improves energy efficiency. Some window films can help regulate indoor temperature, reducing energy consumption and costs.

A Multi-Faceted Security Strategy

In general, any “school safety window film” refers to a variety of window film called security window film. Here are a few ways in which this remarkable product proves its worth as a preparatory measure:

1. Deterrence to Breaking and Entering

Window film serves as a deterrent to breaking and entering in several ways. Security window films are also designed to resist impact, making it significantly more difficult to break through glass, requiring more time and effort. Reports show that many would-be intruders abandon their break-in attempts after window film prevents initial success. The mere presence of film as part of a security strategy may deter intruders from targeting a school.

Some types of window film can reduce visibility into the building, making it harder for intruders to assess the situation and plan their entry. Even if an intruder manages to break a window, the film will hold the glass together, delaying entry and giving occupants more time to react or call for help.

2. Response Time During Forced Entry Attempts

Texan regulations stipulate that all ground-level windows and doors in Texas K-12 schools must be fortified with entry-resistant film. This refers to a glass safety film comprising several micro-layers of polyester. The film’s primary function is to hold the glass together when broken, putting a substantial obstacle in the way of forced entry.

This delay, however short, can make a significant difference. In addition to more reaction time for occupants during emergency lockdown, it also provides valuable response time for emergency responders to arrive on site. 

3. Protection Against Shattered Glass Hazards

Shattered glass can be a life-threatening hazard whether or not it’s related to an intentional security breach. Accidents like hurling baseballs or falling shelves can be just as risky.

Safety and security film holds glass together on impact, preventing the scattering of shards that could pose a danger to students and staff. This protective feature is critical for both active shooter prevention and everyday safety in schools.

Our Shared Responsibility

In the end, the ongoing threat of violence in educational institutions is a problem we must all take steps to mitigate. The shared responsibility to protect our youth is one in which we can take proactive steps with the right technology. As greater Pittsburgh’s leading provider of window films, U.S. Film Crew is honored to be a part of the solution.

Embrace Glass Safety With U.S. Film Crew

Over our decades of operation, the team at U.S. Film Crew has taken part in efforts across the nation to reinforce school safety and security. It’s our precision, expertise, and dedication to exceptional results that make us the first choice in window security for those who need it. 

If your school has yet to take the step toward proactive window safety, we would like to help you take that step. Get in touch with U.S. Film Crew to learn more about the solutions we offer.
Build a safer future with us. Contact U.S. Film Crew today.