Although this project is still going through the decision making process, it goes some way to show the importance of work put in at the start of a project, and solutions we can present to help specifiers and project managers design the best possible solution to a problem.
Image showing how specialist laminated glass/polycarbonate composite is made up
Using this glass polycarbonate composite would ensure the security element would be achieved, but what about the privacy element?
One option would be to incorporate switchable glass, which uses an electric current running through to control the opacity turning it on and off, but this would be an extremely expensive option and would not satisfy the security – so this was ruled out.
Switchable glass off and on in Selectaglaze's main meeting room, showing the difference in opacity
The second option would be to have an opaque polycarbonate layer; however, this comes with a very high level of opacity similar to viewing through a dense sheet of white paper. This could potentially cut out too much natural light to the holding rooms – yet it remained an option to be explored.
The final option in the scoping of this treatment is to use an opaque film applied to the primary windows prior to installation, which would probably be the most cost-effective whilst still satisfying the security criteria. However, as with all options, there are pros and cons to be weighed up. In general, films can be applied to secondary glazing, which is fine in a standard specification. However, due to the levels of security needed, it was felt that if the film was applied to the polycarbonate, the glue could affect its security performance and adversely affect the polycarbonate. So would it be best to apply the film on the primary glazing, but thought would need to be given to access for replacing the film at a later date as it has a limited lifespan depending on the product used and its exposure to light. Fortunately, a demountable secure secondary glazing system could be used to accommodate this access.
Frosted film applied to office partitions to provide some privacy
The final design is still in development and installation costs v lifetime costs are being weighed up, to not only ensure it satisfies the performance specification but that it is cost-effective and provides a long term solution too.
Sensitivity is key to this project
The building in question is highly sensitive and deemed a security risk; one of the immigration detention centres in the UK. Physical security will play a large part in its upgrade and refurbishment, with the specification of secondary glazing playing a key role. Not only was protection from physical escape high on the agenda, with unit performance to attain LPS1175 SR2 or SR3, but the glazing also needed to provide privacy from those inside holding rooms being able to see out or those outside of the rooms being able to see in. Processing of sensitive data is carried out in offices during interviews, which also demanded a level of privacy.Getting the right secondary glazing specification – the options
Privacy glass comes in a range of opacities, from fairly clear providing a reasonable amount of privacy to almost white, which will block any possible viewing in and out of the area where it is used. However, with the need to incorporate the security element, thick standard float glass would not provide the levels of security required. To achieve high levels of physical security required under LPS1175 SR2 and SR3, a laminated glass polycarbonate composite must be used, which is made by bonding the glass and polycarbonate together, to combine the inherent benefits of both materials creating the strength and durability needed.
Image showing how specialist laminated glass/polycarbonate composite is made up
Using this glass polycarbonate composite would ensure the security element would be achieved, but what about the privacy element?
One option would be to incorporate switchable glass, which uses an electric current running through to control the opacity turning it on and off, but this would be an extremely expensive option and would not satisfy the security – so this was ruled out.
Switchable glass off and on in Selectaglaze's main meeting room, showing the difference in opacity
The second option would be to have an opaque polycarbonate layer; however, this comes with a very high level of opacity similar to viewing through a dense sheet of white paper. This could potentially cut out too much natural light to the holding rooms – yet it remained an option to be explored.
The final option in the scoping of this treatment is to use an opaque film applied to the primary windows prior to installation, which would probably be the most cost-effective whilst still satisfying the security criteria. However, as with all options, there are pros and cons to be weighed up. In general, films can be applied to secondary glazing, which is fine in a standard specification. However, due to the levels of security needed, it was felt that if the film was applied to the polycarbonate, the glue could affect its security performance and adversely affect the polycarbonate. So would it be best to apply the film on the primary glazing, but thought would need to be given to access for replacing the film at a later date as it has a limited lifespan depending on the product used and its exposure to light. Fortunately, a demountable secure secondary glazing system could be used to accommodate this access.
Frosted film applied to office partitions to provide some privacy
The final design is still in development and installation costs v lifetime costs are being weighed up, to not only ensure it satisfies the performance specification but that it is cost-effective and provides a long term solution too.
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