G4S ACADEMY BURGLAR-RESISTANT GLASS DISPLAY CASES & EXHIBITION ROOMS GUIDE VERSION 170804
BURGLAR-RESISTANT GLASS DISPLAY CASES INFORMATION This guide is developed to inform museum curators, architects, conservators, exhibition designers, store owners and others about the design, construction, planning and manufacturing of glass display cases and exhibition rooms for the display and safeguarding of valuable objects. There are currently no European standards for glass display cases that deal with anti-theft protection. The EN 15999 1 standard Conservation of cultural heritage Guidelines for design of showcases for exhibition and preservation of objects deals primarily with preservation. The closest we come to an applicable standard is SSF 1056, Montrer Krav och Provning (Display cases requirements and testing) by the Swedish theft prevention association, Svenska Stöldskyddsföreningen. However, the maximum security level requirement it states is that the glass display case must be able to resist forced entry for at least 2. It also requires that the product is tested and certified in Sweden. CFPA Europe publishes a general guide, Security Guidelines for Museums and Showrooms. It is good, but does not cover glass display cases specifically. We have worked with the security, design and construction of glass display cases for many years and share our experiences in this guide. CONTENTS Security Level Standards and Development Openings Security Glass & Security Film Locks Additional Requirements Security versus Design Reinforcement Auditing Exhibition Rooms Recommendations SECURITY LEVEL The level of security needed in a glass display case depends to a great extent on the number and value of objects to be displayed in the case, as well as on the physical size of the objects. It should be considered in relation to the other solutions in the building and in the surroundings where the glass display case is to be located, as well as to the overall risk assessment. A glass display case alone should not represent the entire security. This guide describes ways to safeguard glass display cases and exhibition cases from forced entry. Supplementary anti-theft security will typically be in the form of extra locks or time delay locks on the display case itself. Because there is no real standard for glass display cases, we have developed a concept along with this guide that uses EN-approved components. Unfortunately, this does not mean that the entire construction is EN-approved. For lack of other standards, however, this is the best possible approach in our opinion. The four standards used in the construction of glass display cases are: EN 1627-1630, typically applies to doors, windows and rolling shutters; EN 356, applies to glass; EN 12209, applies to lock cases; and EN 1303, applies to lock cylinders.
These four standards or rather the products that are tested in this context make up the three elements of a glass display case: frames/profiles and doors, glass and other surfaces and the lock. To build a glass display case corresponding at least to the original Danish Insurance Association (DIA)/SKAFOR standards, you need to use approved products as described in the following chart: EQUIVALENT DIA norm for forced entry (standard thief) SKAFOR Main Group 1* Frames/profiles and doors EN 1627 to 1630 RC/WK/MK Glass and other surfaces EN 356 Lock case and strike plate EN 12209 Lock cylinder EN 1303 Resistance time DIA norm for forced entry (discontinued as of December 31, 2015) EPG Estimated resistance time YELLOW GREEN BLUE RED RC 1 P2A FILM RC 2 P6B** RC 3 P6B** RC 4 P6B** GRADE 3 GRADE 3 GRADE 5 GRADE 7 GRADE 5 GRADE 5 GRADE 5 GRADE 6 3 5 2 4 5 7 4 6 7 10 6 10 >10 10 15 * Discontinued as of December 31, 2015 ** Because glass makes up a large percentage of the total surface area of a display case, we have chosen a higher security level than that recommended in the same RC class. STANDARDS AND DEVELOPMENT When the Danish SKAFOR standard existed, several organizations tested and approved constructions complete display case constructions as well as glass and polycarbonate (Hammerglass) for use in glass display cases. However, it is important to note that one of the key reasons for the discontinuation of the so-called standard thief method (Standardtyv) was that the standard was NOT updated. Meaning that the tools used in the test at the Danish Technological Institute had basically not changed throughout the period the standard applied. And a great deal has happened since the mid-80s, especially in the area of battery-powered hand-held tools. In short the products that were originally tested are not necessarily resistant to the tools used by today s standard thief. In conclusion, it is actually positive that standards are being developed that are more in keeping with the times. But until they are implemented and understood by all stakeholders in the industry, the situation is unfortunately problematic. Glass display cases should ALWAYS be part of an overall security concept and never stand alone. You can read more about security concepts in our guide on The MAMUTE Security Analysis Model.
OPENINGS The products tested according to EN 1627/1628/1629/ 1630 standards pass if they are not physically opened or the testers have not successfully created an opening larger than Ø350 mm, 400x250 mm (rectangular) or 400x300 mm (oblong) within the resistance time (minimum requirement). However, in practice, these openings are often too large in relation to display case construction, as the objects can generally be removed from much smaller openings. It is therefore important to specify the size of the objects and conduct a risk assessment. In short, small objects can result in the need to increase the level of security. SECURITY GLASS & SECURITY FILM Glass, film and polycarbonate are tested according to the EN 356 standard and classified as P1A, P2A P3A, P4A and P5A, which are only hard body tested by dropping a steel ball. However, that is not how forced entry occurs in real life. Glass and Hammerglass classified as P6B, P7B and P8B are tested using an axe. Consequently, in our experience, any glass with a classification lower than P6B should not be used for anti-theft protection. Furthermore, in our experience, none of the testing methods used in accordance with EN 356 (security glass, security film and polycarbonate) reflect the risk associated with glass. Objects in exhibition windows tend to be small. Given that and the efficiency of a battery-powered drill with a good hole saw bit or a battery-powered jig saw, the more realistic resistance time is lower than that stated above. LOCKS The EN standards for mechanical locks can be broken down into roughly two categories: Testing of lock cases in accordance with EN 12209 and testing of lock cylinders in accordance with EN 1303. These are complex standards as the lock as a whole comprises multiple components which should be tested singly. However, it is important to note that lock picking and manipulation are not considered in the EN standard for cylinders. The EN standard provides good options for locking glass display cases with approved access control solutions. These solutions provide a variety of control options, such as time delay, double coding (requiring two people to open the lock) and similar. You can see a comparison of the different lock types in our Standards Comparison Key at www.g4s.dk/academy. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS Because the combination of these four standards has not be officially covered, a large number of requirements in these standards are either not relevant, not covered or not included in the requirements specification. Thus, it is important to be aware of the following: Attachment Glass display cases should always be bolted to stable building elements, regardless of weight. This is out of consideration to theft, but also to the objects themselves, should the case tip over. Object size The size of the objects should be considered when defining the security level for instance, it is faster to drill a 40 mm hole in glass than a 300 mm hole. Uniform security level The glass display case s security level should be the same on all six sides. In some cases, the floor and/or walls make up sides of the glass display case, but that is not necessarily a good idea. Lead-ins Lead-ins for climate control, lighting and similar should be constructed so that they do not reduce the overall security level of the glass display case. Holistic thinking When combining glass, walls, doors and locks, it is important to think holistically basically, no component may be weaker than the others. Alarm The glass display case should have additional alarm monitoring.
SECURITY VERSUS DESIGN In all the display case projects, we have been involved in, design has always been a major topic. So we ll just give it to you straight beautiful design and a high security level are often a source of contention and it is extremely difficult to meet the demands of an exhibition designer. Security versus design is about compromise. Glass display cases designed according to the standards and constructions described above can be both elegant and beautiful. But it requires the cooperation of all the parties involved in the process. For example, we have built cases where we used 20 different special bolts to lock a display case door rather than using a cylinder lock. The result looked better, and it was, in fact, more secure. However, it could not be classified. The fact that there are no standards can give you greater freedom in the design process. However, we would strongly advise against compromising on security for the sake of design. The only point where alternative thinking can actually give a better result is in terms of cylinder locks. But always remember that no link may be weaker than the entire chain. When researching this guide, we came across examples of an American patent that covers constructions with internal swivel plates under the objects. If the display case is attacked, the base under the objects simply swivels so the objects fall down into the secure part of the display case. This would not work with something like a Fabergé egg, but it could work with jewelry and watches. Similarly, we have worked with constructions that move down into a safe if the display case is attacked. In this type of construction, the glass itself might be constructed like a column. In collaboration with a Swedish manufacturer of glass and polycarbonate, we conducted a series of tests on glass joints in 2015/2016. Historically, it has not been possible to make invisible glued edges in glass display cases that are also burglar-resistant. In our comprehensive R&D, we have finally come up with a solution a product that we are making available to everyone in collaboration with the manufacturer. To find out more, please contact us by email to: academy@dk.g4s.com.
REINFORCEMENT There are thousands of ways to construct a display case, and the only characteristic they have in common is that they generally have six sides. So how can you tell if a glass display case is secure? And how can you reinforce existing constructions? To begin with, you have to look at the case as a single unit. Start with the glass, then the profiles that keep the glass in place, then the door its construction and how it is attached to the frame and finally the lock. It is highly unlikely you will find anyone willing to classify existing constructions. However, with a little common sense and some technical ingenuity, it is often possible to defend an estimate of a glass display case s resistance to forced entry that is, to estimate the resistance time. However, an estimate is rarely enough when you are seeking insurance coverage for an exhibition or showroom. Nevertheless, this is often how it is done. Based on the requirements for classified display cases listed above, there are some minimum requirements that can be used as rules of thumb for burglar-resistant glass display cases: The glass must be made from polycarbonate (Hammerglass) that is at least 6 mm thick (or glass of a corresponding thickness). The glass must be securely attached to the frame. The frame must be strong enough to withstand an attack with a crowbar without becoming so deformed that the glass can be removed from the profiles. The door (complete with lock) must be at least as strong as the profiles on the sides. The lock must as a minimum be installed according to standard regulations and recommendations for locks for example no protruding cylinder. The display case must be heavy and solid. If a glass display case has been tested in accordance with the original DIA/SKAFOR standard, a test and classification certificate must be attached to the inside of the door/ frame. If there is no certificate, the display case has in all likelihood not be tested. If you have a display case that does not meet the minimum requirements listed above, it may be possible to reinforce the existing construction. Often, ordinary glass can be replaced with polycarbonate, profiles can be reinforced and so forth. However, this can be quite a costly affair and the results are rarely very nice to look at. Again, depending on the risk, it is possible to argue in favor of installing security film on the existing glass (it is better than nothing) and it is also possible to retrofit polycarbonate on the inside that falls down over the objects if the glass is smashed this makes it more difficult for the thief or burglar. It is also possible to install fog canons that spread a harmless fog outside the glass display case so the thief or burglar cannot see what they are trying to steal. Another solution similar to fog is foam this solution is used, for instance, in transport bags for gemstones. Both solutions must only be used with objects that will not be damaged by the fog or foam. AUDITING We are considering providing auditing services for existing display case constructions and providing security assessments of their resistance to forced entry. For more information on this service, please contact us by email to: academy@dk.g4s.com. EXHIBITION ROOMS The requirements specifications for glass display cases described above are based on doors, windows and building elements. These same elements can also be used to construct small showrooms. For several projects, we have revamped the entire exhibition concept so instead of building glass display cases, we have created entire exhibition rooms. We have constructed very large glass display cases for a variety of customers, including: 120 square-meter exhibition room for Copenhagen s Zoological Museum 21-ton exhibition room and portal for Oslo s Museum of Cultural History
Instead of telling the history of the objects in individual display cases, the story can be told through large sections of glass with much greater exhibition freedom and with much greater visibility for the objects. Another advantage of exhibition rooms is that they are a lot less expensive to construct than the corresponding number of display cases. Finally, an exhibition room can be repurposed more easily and is less object-specific. Exhibition rooms can also be built in sections to minimize the overall risk just like having several separate display cases. The drawback of exhibition rooms is that they are stationary and cannot easily be moved. In principle, an exhibition room is a further development on what we specialists call security cells and they can be built to exactly the same standards as display cases as described in this guide. All security types should, as mentioned, be designed in layers. This means the building s shell security cannot be used for an exhibition room an exhibition room is simply a very large internal glass display case. Consequently, a thief or burglar must force entry into the building s shell and then again into the exhibition room. Unfortunately, there are no specific standards for exhibition rooms either. The closest we come are for vaults, but they are something differently and rarely made using glass. The 21-ton portal we built actually has a similar construction to a vault (according to the EN 1143 1 standard, formerly DIA/SKAFOR, Main Group 2), where the objects could be viewed from the inside through security glass. RECOMMENDATIONS Despite the fact that there is currently no set standard for glass display cases, the standards presented here can be used to construct new glass display cases and exhibition rooms. The standards can, to a certain extent, also be used to reinforce existing glass display cases. It is important to take a holistic approach to the construction, as no component may be weaker than the construction as a whole. When we developed the GlassSafe display cases (see photo on page 5), they were tested and classified by the Danish Technological Institute as meeting the requirements of the original DIA/SKAFOR blue class in Main Group 2 (resistance time of 28-40 ) with 76 mm-thick glass. A glass display case typically weighed 500-800 kg and cost a small fortune. In our view, this type of display case has become obsolete. We believe in the simpler display case and exhibition room constructions described in this guide as the security concepts of the future for both cultural institutions and the retail sector. Forced entry and burglar-resistant glass display cases are often thought to be too expensive, ugly, inflexible and complex with climate control, lighting etc. But we think designing and building glass display cases is one of the greatest and most interesting challenges in the mechanical security industry. With the new standards and large share of creativity combined with a decent budget, it is possible to make fantastic solutions.
G4S ACADEMY CONSULTING, EDUCATION & INFORMATION G4S is the largest security company in Denmark and the world, with more than 100 years experience. We share our knowledge through our ISO-certified G4S Academy. Our goal is to establish a partnership with our customers and to improve risk mitigation through close collaboration and knowledge sharing. We welcome all comments and ideas, so we can continue to develop our material and ensure that it is as useful as possible, now and in the future. UPDATES Contact G4S Academy to receive updated material free of charge. We update our material whenever there is a need for it. You will find the version number on the front page. LIABILITY AND RESERVATIONS FOR PRINTING ERRORS G4S Academy assumes no liability for security decisions made based on this material. The material is developed as a project among several stakeholders, and G4S Academy can therefore not assume full liability. STANDARDS Most professional security products are tested according to international standards. This is ideal for the user, supplier and consultant, as it makes it possible to actually compare products. G4S Academy provides overviews of the standards we primarily employ. We always recommend using products that are tested and classified to the extent it is technically possible and in accordance with current standards. OTHER MATERIAL, EVENTS, SEMINARS AND COURSES We regularly develop new material. See more at www.g4s.dk/academy. CONTACT You are welcome to contact us for further information. Just call +45 4386 5000 or send an email to academy@dk.g4s.com. SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER Text the word G4S to 1980 to receive our G4S Academy newsletters.