The 12 Days of Building Product Terms: DAY 8 - Powder Coat Paint

Click "Read More" to get started on day 8's term,

Powder Coat Paint.

The 12 Days of Building Product Terms: DAY 4 - Wire Cloth Infill

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Wire Cloth Infill.

Detention Window Screens & Psychiatric Patients

Detention screens are used in psychiatric hospitals
for patient safety and detention

Prior to the 1940's, steel bars placed over hospital windows were the standard means of confining psychiatric patients.  However, since that time, detention screens have been used almost exclusively.  These special screens offer a homelike atmosphere, allowing for the infiltration of fresh air and light.

Detention screens are designed to meet different security levels depending on the strength of the frames and their type of hardware.  By choosing the proper security level, health care institutions can satisfy their specific needs at the least possible cost.

Public Housing HUD Requirements for Window Screens

The US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in conjunction with the Screen Manufacturers Association (SMA) has developed a testing and certification program to ensure security screens meet certain minimum performance standards.

The certification program defines three levels of screens.  Learn more about these levels after the jump.

Higher Ed Window Safety Series (PART 1): Benefits of Security Screens

Top-hinged protector security screens on McKee Hall
at Penn State Main Campus

For colleges and universities, campus security is a serious concern.  Over the years, most schools have evolved their security plan(s) to include perimeter fencing, guarded entrances, outdoor lighting, emergency call boxes magnetic card readers and expanded police patrols, in addition to the installation of security screens on residence hall windows.

In this three-part blog series, we'll discuss the nine ways security screens prevent criminal activity at higher education facilities, while saving the institution valuable time and money in replacement screens:

Windows & Balconies: 4 Building Tips for Child Safety & Fall Prevention

Keep kids safe by choosing railing that meets code

According to the American College of Surgeons, falls among children and adolescents account for more than three million emergency department visits each year with 40% of these falls occurring among infants, toddlers and preschoolers.  Nearly three quarters of child falls from elevated areas are unintentional and tend to originate from balconies, windows and trees. 

Whether you're renovating a public housing facility in an urban area, or designing a new high rise hotel near a popular vacation spot, consider making balconies and windows safer for each family and child by following these helpful tips:

Security Screens: Vandalism Protection for Windows

Storefront window with obvious signs of vandalism

Bare window panes alone are no match for heavy, thrown objects.

When faced with repeated blows from rocks, bricks and bottles, typical window glass doesn't stand a chance against this type of destructive vandalism.

If your storefront or home is located on the first story or street level of a building, consider the benefits of window security screens for the protection of your property - as well as the people inside.