Meeting School Safety Mandate with Security Glazing

2025/09/19
school-safety-glazing

Meeting School Safety Mandate with Security Glazing

How U.S.-made RiotLite™ RL-27 and DefenseLite® Pro helps schools comply with new forced-entry glazing requirements.

In 2023, Tennessee took a decisive step to strengthen school safety with the passage of Senate Bill 0899 (SB 0899). This legislation introduces phased requirements for window and door glazing security, ultimately mandating compliance with nationally recognized forced-entry standards such as ASTM F3561.

For school leaders, facility managers, and safety officers, understanding what SB 0899 requires—and how to comply cost-effectively—is critical. Impact Security’s U.S.-made RiotLite™ and DefenseLite® solutions are engineered to meet these new standards. They provide retrofit versatility, proven test performance, and certified Tennessee installers.

This article answers the key questions surrounding SB 0899 and security glazing requirements. Discover how RiotLite™ is a timely, compliant solution.

What is SB 0899 and why does it matter for Tennessee schools?

SB 0899 is a Tennessee school safety law addressing vulnerabilities in entryway glass. It establishes phased glazing requirements to delay or prevent unauthorized entry through exterior doors, adjoining sidelights, and vestibules.

The law matters because forced-entry through glass is one of the most common tactics used by intruders. By requiring security glazing, the legislation seeks to buy time for staff and law enforcement to respond—potentially saving lives.

More importantly, Tennessee’s move signals a growing trend. Other states are monitoring these results and considering similar legislation to strengthen school safety infrastructure.

What was the timeline for compliance under SB 0899?

The legislation had two distinct phases:

Phase 1: July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2025

All new or remodeled public school buildings must have clear entry-resistant film applied to exterior entry glass and basement-level windows/doors.

The intent is to prevent immediate breach through shattered glass.

Phase 2: July 1, 2025, and onward

All new or remodeled school facilities (including charter schools) must use clear film or security glazing. These glazing solutions must be tested to a nationally recognized forced-entry resistance standard such as ASTM F3561.

This applies to exterior doors, adjoining glazing, and vestibules serving as secure primary entry points.

Ongoing oversight is provided by the state safety team established under the SAVE Act. The fire marshal is authorized to codify compliance through rules.

Districts outside Tennessee should pay attention. These phased approaches may form the blueprint for other state legislatures seeking practical timelines for implementation.

What does ASTM F3561 require?

ASTM F3561 is a rigorous, system-level standard that evaluates forced-entry resistance for complete door and window assemblies.

Key points about the standard:

  • System-Level Testing: It applies to fully assembled glazing systems, not just retrofit films.
  • Multiple Levels: The standard defines different performance levels (Levels 1–8). The higher the level, the more it should be able to resist severe impact and prolonged attack.
  • Realistic Intrusion Scenarios: Testing simulates common forced-entry methods such as repeated impacts with blunt objects.

The International Window Film Association (IWFA) has clarified that ASTM F3561 does not apply to film-only retrofits. True compliance requires a system tested as a whole.

Does this mean window film alone is enough for compliance?

No. While the Phase 1 requirement specifies entry-resistant film, Phase 2 explicitly references compliance with a nationally recognized system-level test standard such as ASTM F3561.

This distinction means:

  • Film-only retrofits may not qualify for Phase 2 compliance.
  • Schools should plan to adopt tested security glazing systems that meet ASTM F3561 requirements.

The bottom line: entry-resistant film can serve as an interim measure, but long-term compliance requires more advanced glazing solutions.

How does RiotLite™ meet Tennessee’s new requirements?

Impact Security’s RiotLite™ RL-27 laminate security system has been independently tested to ASTM F3561 Level 3. This system retrofits over existing school glass to significantly delay intruder entry attempts.

Key benefits include:

  • Made in the USA: RiotLite™ is manufactured domestically for supply chain reliability.
  • Retrofit Versatility: Installed over existing framing, minimizing cost and disruption.
  • Proven Performance: ASTM F3561 Level 3 certification demonstrates meaningful intrusion resistance.

For districts beyond Tennessee, RiotLite™ offers a proactive solution that meets nationally recognized standards before mandates arrive in their state.

What about higher-level protection?

For schools seeking maximum security, Impact Security also offers DefenseLite® Pro, tested to the highest ASTM F3561 Level 8. This system provides superior protection against sustained forced-entry attacks.

Together, RiotLite™ and DefenseLite® offer scalable security options:

  • RiotLite™ RL-27: Cost-effective compliance with Level 3 protection.
  • DefenseLite® Pro: Maximum performance for high-threat environments, certified at Level 8.

How do RiotLite™ and DefenseLite® compare to traditional window film?

Unlike thin entry-resistant films, RiotLite™ and DefenseLite® are engineered glazing systems tested to ASTM standards.

Traditional Window Film:

  • Provides temporary shatter resistance.
  • Does not qualify for ASTM F3561 compliance.
  • Intended only as a short-term Phase 1 measure.

RiotLite™/DefenseLite® Systems:

  • Independently tested to ASTM F3561.
  • Designed as complete retrofit glazing solutions.
  • Provide long-term compliance and superior security.

Are Tennessee schools able to install these solutions locally?

Yes. Impact Security can put you in touch with certified Tennessee-based installers. Schools benefit from:

  • Local expertise in security glazing installation.
  • Faster project timelines to meet SB 0899 deadlines.
  • Confidence in proper system performance and compliance.

What are the cost and implementation advantages?

While SB 0899 compliance could be seen as a costly mandate, RiotLite™ provides a cost-effective pathway by retrofitting existing glazing.

Advantages include:

  • No full replacement required: Existing frames remain in place.
  • Minimal disruption: Installations are fast, with little classroom downtime.
  • Budget flexibility: RiotLite™ enables phased rollouts, prioritizing critical entry points first.

What should schools do now to prepare for the July 2025 deadline?

With SB 0899 compliance now in effect, schools that have not yet upgraded glazing systems must act quickly to meet state requirements. Recommended steps include:

  • Verify Compliance Status: Confirm whether entry points are protected with ASTM F3561-tested systems or if only temporary film remains in place.
  • Prioritize Upgrades: Identify non-compliant doors, sidelights, and vestibules and schedule retrofits immediately.
  • Engage Certified Installers: Partner with Tennessee-based installers for professional installation and documentation of compliance.
  • Implement Tested Solutions: Select RiotLite™ RL-27 or DefenseLite® Pro to align with ASTM F3561 standards and ensure long-term security.

Safety Beyond Compliance

Compliance is the minimum standard. Schools should also view glazing upgrades as part of a broader safety plan.

Security glazing works best when paired with vestibule designs that slow intruders. Access control technology adds additional barriers.

Staff training and emergency preparedness complement physical upgrades. Together, these measures create layered security that protects students and staff.

RiotLite™ and DefenseLite® fit seamlessly into these layered strategies, offering reliable protection that extends well beyond legal compliance.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with SB 0899 carries real risks for schools. The deadline has passed, but obligations remain.

Schools may face citations from state fire marshal inspections. Non-compliance could also trigger penalties under safety regulations.

Funding Impacts

Districts risk reduced eligibility for state or federal safety grants. Delays can jeopardize future funding opportunities.

Liability Concerns

In the event of an incident, non-compliance could expose districts to lawsuits or insurance disputes.

Reputation Damage

Parents and communities expect safe schools. Failure to comply undermines trust and public confidence.

Compliance is not just a legal checkbox. It is a critical responsibility for protecting students, staff, and the wider school community.

Looking Ahead

School safety standards will continue to evolve as threats change and technology advances. Tennessee’s SB 0899 is only the beginning.

States including Texas, Florida, and Ohio have already introduced or passed legislation addressing school entry security. These laws vary in scope but share a common thread: stronger requirements for forced-entry resistant glazing.

Districts should invest in scalable solutions that anticipate future requirements. RiotLite™ and DefenseLite® provide tested systems built for long-term resilience.

Early adoption positions schools as leaders in safety and ensures smoother compliance with future regulations.

For school administrators nationwide, the takeaway is clear: what Tennessee has already required, other states are likely to follow.

From Mandate to Action: Securing Tennessee Schools with RiotLite™

Tennessee’s SB 0899 represents a turning point in school safety legislation. Its phased framework provides a clear path for other states to emulate. While Phase 1 allowed simple film retrofits, Phase 2 compliance will demand more robust, system-tested solutions.

Impact Security’s RiotLite™ RL-27 and DefenseLite® Pro provide U.S.-made, ASTM F3561-certified protection that schools can rely on. With certified installation networks extending beyond Tennessee, Impact Security is prepared to support districts across the nation.

Next step: Schedule a consultation with an Impact Security installer to discuss retrofit options and learn how to future-proof compliance in any state.

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