Next level of security

ATB Systems has achieved the highest security standard currently possible for a commercial aluminium window.
 
The window manufacturer has achieved Exova Warrington APT’s STS202 standard BR2 level for its Taurus Max Parallel Opening aluminium window, which is recognised for its enhanced security rating by Secured by Design.
 
Attaining the standard has been the result of a combined lean manufacturing and investment project undertaken in partnership with the Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) which, together with external consultants MTech Consult, helped the company implement a number of improvements – including the installation of an in-house testing rig in preparation for the exacting STS assessment.
 
In order to achieve the required standard examiners were given three minutes over a one hour period to physically ‘attack’ the window using a variety of tools including screwdrivers, hammers and crowbars, the objective being to identify its weakest point. Once identified, testers were then given a further three minutes within a 15 minute time period to exploit that weak point with the aim of opening the window, or breaking the glass and passing a life-size human torso through it.
 
The intensive six minute testing period is designed to ensure the window can resist over and above the amount of effort and time any casual burglar would normally spend trying to gain access to a property without drawing attention.
 
ATB Systems commercial manager, Dave Simms, said:  “The current BS 7950 domestic standard assesses the robustness of the iron mongery frame through point load pressure rather than a sustained physical attack and does not test the glass. We believe that this more rigorous, real world test and the additional reassurance offered by STS202 (BR2 level), coupled with a parallel opener’s optimum air exchange and ventilation properties will be of great interest to facilities managers.”
 
Another improvement that is a key requirement of the standard was put in to place by ATB following a comprehensive gap analysis – which identified that implementing computer numerically controlled (CNC) machinery would help achieve a consistently high standard of output across the business’ four separate manufacturing sites.
 
The gap analysis also contributed significantly to a 12% improvement in productivity and a 6% reduction in materials.

Picture: ATB Systems commercial manager Dave Simms and MAS Advisor Peter Jones.
 
www.atbsystems.co.uk
www.mas.bis.gov.uk