Strengthen Facility Security with RiotLite® Window Film System Tested to ASTM F3561 Standards
The security of schools, government buildings, retail stores, and other high-risk facilities has never been more important. With rising threats of forced entry incidents and violent attacks, facility managers and security professionals need robust security solutions. Solutions such as the RiotLite® Security Window Film System [RiotLite] that have been tested to meet ASTM F3561 Level 3 Protection.
One of the most effective ways to enhance security is through retrofit security glazing solutions. Security window film systems and reinforced glass barriers play a critical role in preventing unwanted entry.
Multiple states have implemented legislation and grant opportunities to harden schools. Most recently, Tennessee legislatures have introduced a bill requiring security glazing in schools. If it passes, more states will likely follow suit to help address increasing concerns for security on campuses.
“The bill states that if a public-school building, including a public charter school building, is built or remodeled after July 1, 2023, but before July 1, 2025, the building must feature a transparent, entry-resistant film on exterior and basement windows and doors. Additionally, starting July 1, 2025, schools must install transparent window film or security glazing that meets a specific national test standard (ASTM F3561) for forced-entry resistance, focusing on exterior entries, doors, adjoining glazing and secure interior vestibules.”
Enhancing Building Security with Security Window Film Systems
The most effective form of security is preventative, which is where security glazing comes in. To ensure their effectiveness, these solutions must be tested against rigorous forced entry standards. Standards such as ASTM F3561, which evaluates a material’s ability to withstand aggressive forced-entry attempts.
By understanding the ASTM F3561 test standards, security professionals can make informed decisions about glazing solutions.
ASTM and Forced Entry Test StandardsUnderstanding ASTM standards ensures security film for windows and retrofit glazing solutions effectively defend against break-ins and violent threats. These standards establish testing methods that help evaluate the strength, durability, and resilience of security materials used in high-risk environments.
What is ASTM?
ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) was established in 1898. An international organization, ASTM develops voluntary standards to enhance product quality, safety, and performance.
The goal is to enhance product safety and reliability through standardized testing methodologies. ASTM standards are recognized by regulatory bodies, manufacturers, and security professionals for their credibility and accuracy in evaluating product performance.
ASTM F3561 Standard Test Method
The ASTM F3561 test standard evaluates the ability of security glazing systems to resist forced entry attempts. Simulating common threats—break-ins, smash-and-grabs, active shooter incidents, and so forth—can help accurately assess the effectiveness of a product. It is critical to note that the testing is a total system approach, as with hurricane impact and bullet-resistant system testing, not exclusive to a specific component. The system components included the framing, glazing materials [glass or polycarbonate], glass stops, gaskets, and anchoring materials.
Testing Procedures and Criteria
The ASTM F3561 test involves:
• Impact testing: Simulating blunt force attacks using various objects.
• Repeated assault testing: Assessing how long a glazing system withstands continuous strikes.
• Penetration resistance: Evaluating whether the glazing system prevents an opening large enough for unauthorized entry.
For a comprehensive overview of ASTM F3561 test procedures, see Intertek’s ASTM F3561 guidelines.
Forced Entry Resistance Levels
ASTM F3561 establishes different resistance levels to categorize how well security glazing products can withstand forced entry attempts. Protection levels vary to fortify buildings against specific threats and needs. The higher the resistance level, the greater the protection against intrusion.
Level 3 Forced Entry Resistance is designed to withstand moderate forced-entry attempts. Security glazing at this level must resist strikes from tools such as hammers, crowbars, and other blunt objects.
The primary goal is to delay entry long enough to deter criminals or allow authorities time to respond. Testing methods involve attack simulations using hand tools and impactors. The material undergoes multiple forceful strikes over a defined time to assess its damage resistance and structural integrity.
Level 8 Forced Entry Resistance classification denotes a high level of security against advanced intrusion attempts. DefenseLite® Pro retrofit security glazing systems meet the Level 8 test requirement and have been proven to resist attacks from sledgehammers, power tools, and specific types of advanced weaponry.
Differences Between Level 3 and Level 8 Testing
The primary distinction between Level 3 and Level 8 forced entry resistance lies in the intensity and type of threats they are designed to withstand.
Level 3 security glazing is built to resist smash-and-grab attacks, which occur when intruders use manual tools such as hammers and crowbars to gain quick access. This level provides moderate protection, aiming to delay entry long enough to deter criminals or allow authorities to respond.
In contrast, Level 8 security measures are designed for prolonged attacks using advanced breaching tools. Materials here must endure multiple shots from military assault rifles such as an AK 47 or M-14 type weapon.
The testing for Level 8 requires that materials sustain higher-impact forces without failure. This ensures maximum entry delay and enhanced protection against determined intruders. DefenseLite Pro provides Level 8 protection.
ASTM Standards in Security Products
ASTM standards help ensure security glazing solutions are rigorously tested for forced entry resistance. Meeting ASTM F3561 testing gives facility managers, security professionals, and school administrators confidence in choosing reliable security options that fit their needs.
RiotLite: Advanced Security Window Film System
RiotLite is a high-performance security window film system designed to reinforce existing glass and prevent forced entry. Engineered to meet ASTM F3561 Level 3 standards, RiotLite provides a practical, cost-effective security enhancement solution for schools, offices, and retail stores.
By increasing the strength and flexibility of glass, it significantly improves resistance to break-ins, smash-and-grab crimes, and civil disturbances.
How RiotLite RL 27 Meets ASTM Level 3 Standards
To meet ASTM F3561 Level 3 standards, the RiotLite Window Film System underwent rigorous testing, including repeated impacts with common burglary tools like hammers and crowbars to replicate real-world break-in attempts.
Its 27-mil multi-layered security laminate strengthens the glass, absorbing and dispersing impact forces to prevent shattering. The reinforced glass stays intact instead of breaking on contact and vacating the opening, making forced entry significantly more difficult.
RiotLite also meets Level 3 requirements by withstanding multiple forceful strikes over a set period. The ASTM F3561 test evaluates a system’s ability to resist forced entry after being weakened by simulated active shooter conditions. RiotLite’s Level 3 performance denotes that it passed this test, remaining intact long enough to deter intruders and give authorities time to respond.
RiotLite ASTM F3561 Test Results: The ASTM F3561 test evaluates the system to ensure it can resist forced entry after being weakened by simulated active shooter conditions.
The RiotLite Window Film System passed this rigorous test to a Level 3 performance.
Stage 1: Withstood multiple high-velocity projectile impacts, simulating 5.56 rounds from an AR-15.
Stage 2: Resisted mechanical forced-entry attempts, including repeated impacts from a 100-lb pendulum impactor.
Outcome: RiotLite maintained its integrity, preventing penetration and delaying entry, measured to a Level 3 on the ASTM F3561 scale.
Performance: Achieved ASTM F3561 Level 3 performance on 1/4” single pane tempered glass with a structural caulk anchor installed on aluminum commercial glazing frames.
Key Features of RiotLite
• Level 3 forced entry and impact resistance rating under ASTM F3561 testing on 1/4″ tempered glass when applied to aluminum frames with a structural caulk anchor.
• Enhanced Forced Entry Resistance: Shown to delay unauthorized access, providing crucial time for first responder response.
• Versatility: Compatible with most existing glass, offering cost-effective security upgrades.
• Applications: Ideal for schools, offices, government buildings, and retail locations.
RiotLite is a trusted solution for organizations looking to strengthen security without the high cost of replacing entire glass panels.
Threat Level Assessments: Understanding Security Risks and Solutions
Every facility faces unique security challenges, which makes a threat level assessment essential for developing an effective protection strategy. A thorough evaluation of vulnerabilities helps facility managers and security professionals implement solutions that best address potential risks. The threat level assessment should include a structured approach by a trained professional to assess unique security needs and provide tailored recommendations.
Impact Security’s Process to Get You Protected:
- Listen & Consult – Understand facility-specific security concerns and requirements.
- Assess & Estimate – Evaluate existing vulnerabilities and determine the appropriate level of protection.
- Recommend Solutions – Provide security glazing options based on ASTM standards and threat analysis.
- Engineer – Design a customized security system that integrates seamlessly with existing structures.
- Fabricate – Manufacture high-performance security glazing solutions to meet stringent specifications.
- Install – Implement security window film systems and reinforced glazing with precision.
- Service and Warranty – Provide ongoing support, ensuring long-term protection and performance.
A comprehensive threat assessment is the foundation for strengthening at-risk facilities. Security professionals can enhance safety and resilience by identifying potential risks and implementing the most effective retrofit security glazing solution for each building type and elevation.
In Summary
Building security starts with choosing tested products that meet ASTM standards. ASTM F3561 testing helps facility managers and security professionals know which reliable glazing solutions will best prevent forced entry.
Key Takeaways
• ASTM F3561 establishes forced-entry resistance levels for security glazing.
• RiotLite RL 27 can meet Level 3 standards and provides cost-effective protection.
• Choosing ASTM-tested security glazing enhances protection for schools, government buildings, retail stores, and other at-risk facilities.
Visit www.riotlite.com to learn more about Impact Security’s RiotLite Security Window Film System. For the complete range of DefenseLite Retrofit Glazing Solutions, visit DefenseLite.com. Contact the DefenseLite team at [email protected] for a threat assessment to determine which solutions best suit your unique needs.
