Security Film Designed to Mitigate Blast Destruction

Peter Davey, American Window Film, Inc.
BBC News World Edition (Wednesday, 9 February 2005) headlines: “Madrid rocked by bomb blast.” Its photo caption: “Most of those hurt were hit by flying glass from nearby buildings.” The Washington Post website reports “London Terror Bombings Kill 37, Wound 700” (The Associated Press, Friday, July 8, 2005, Robert Barr). Local, national and international broadcast journalists and political leaders remind us that “It’s not a matter of ‘if’ but ‘when’ another attack will occur in the U.S.” Disturbing news indeed continues to bombard and remind us of our vulnerability. Given troubling times, business owners, property and facilities managers would be remiss to overlook the potential harm and loss of business that results from the after-effects of catastrophic events such as bomb blasts, chemical explosions, violent weather or vandalism. In the event of a bomb blast or explosion, a high percentage of injuries occur from shards of glass that act like daggers when blown out of buildings that surround ground zero…buildings that may be located miles away from the actual point of impact. Building owners and facilities managers are purchasing 3M™ Scotchshield™ Safety & Security Window Film for perimeter windows in order to mitigate the destructive effects of explosive blasts, severe weather, and vandalism and their associated impact on business continuity. Compared to the expense of glass replacement, retrofitting with security window film offers an affordable option for improving safety. Efficient and professionally trained installers provide minimum interruption to production activities. The added benefits of reduced heating, cooling and HVAC maintenance expenses provide good reasons for facilities managers to justify their investment on future energy cost savings. Most of us have experienced the invisible shield of protection that 3M security films provide. Many commercial buildings (banks, airports and federal buildings) have security film already installed. We rarely hear about security window film installation since building owners are reluctant to suggest that any of us are vulnerable inside their facility. I might argue that knowledge of safety measures in place is both reassuring to our community and a deterrent to many who seek to do us harm. 3M Company, an ISO9002 certified manufacturer, issued the first patent on window film in 1966. 3M is the only window film manufacturer that produces their own raw materials such as polyesters, adhesives, metals and scratchresistant coatings. Their films meet ANSI Z97 and CPSC glazing standards, and 3M’s patented multiple micro layer technology, to enhance tensile strength and elongation, has contributed to their longevity in the field. They are a durable, tear-resistant series of polyester films that provide high optical clarity. Their construction delivers superior performance over standard polyester films in blast and impact mitigation due to its ability to absorb shock. The 3M™ Ultraflex Sealant System is a strong safety and security installation system. It combines the strength and elasticity of 3M Scotchshield™ Safety and Security Window Film with Dow Corning™ 995 Silicone Structural Sealant. The combination creates a flexible membrane that captures and absorbs impact energy allowing the frame to bend and twist to accommodate a variety of impact stresses. It is a more cost effective system when compared to more bulky mechanical attachment alternatives. Our news is filled with daily reminders of our vulnerability to terrorist attacks. It simply makes good sense to implement security measures that will help assure business continuity in the aftermath of explosive blasts, vandalism or violent weather. Installation of security window film is quick, clean and, not only cost effective, it can provide a return on your investment. A low profile method of glass retention, security window film is a method of preparedness we can afford and should implement, for the safety and protection of visitors, occupants and passers-by of our nation’s commercial buildings. It is a pro-active way to thwart the intent of those who seek to terrorize.
3M™ Scotchtint™ and Scotchshield™ are trademarks of 3M Company. All rights reserved. Peter Davey is president of American Window Film, Inc., a 3M Authorized Window Film Dealer located in Foxboro, MA, 800-274-TINT, www.americanwindowfilm.com.