Texas School District Improves Glazing Security Across 48 School Buildings

The Challenge

A Texas school district needed to upgrade the safety and security of its 48 school buildings including elementary, middle, high school and alternative campuses. The district assembled a team of professionals including security consultants, law enforcement agents and architects to devise a comprehensive plan to increase the safety and security of the buildings and better protect the students, teachers and staff.

The average U.S. public school is more than 40 years old, and most have not had a major renovation in 12 years, states the U.S. Department of Education. This leaves a majority of school leaders looking to improve security within the constraints of the annual budget.

Madico’s Solution

The team of professionals worked together and created a complete strategy for upgrading the safety and security of the schools. One component was to increase the security of the glazing systems through the installation of safety and security window film at all 48 schools.

The architect assigned to the project specified Madico® Clear 14 Mil film along with DOWSIL™ 995 Silicone Structural Sealant and approached Sunset Glass Tinting of Houston, Texas to complete the installation. This clear, safety and security film provides 24/7 passive protection and holds shattered glass together in the event of impact. Its clear appearance does not alert would-be intruders that the protective film is in place and is extremely difficult to penetrate, delaying entry.

The Results

The school district officials were very pleased with the application of Madico Clear 14 Mil Safety and Security film. They appreciated the fact that it appeared as though nothing had been applied to the windows, which was the desired result. Any individuals planning to do harm to those in the school buildings will now have their efforts thwarted by the 14 mil thick, multi-ply laminate film.

School intruders’ intent on harm is a community-wide concern and delaying their entry with security window films on windows and doors may buy time to allow for more response time and save lives, according to the nonprofit International Window Film Association (IWFA).

Safety and security window films should be considered as part of an overall security strategy for schools. In conjunction with other safety measures and procedures, the film will significantly increase the protection of occupants for a variety of threats.