DECIDING THE LEVEL OF PROTECTION YOU NEED
Different types and levels of threat will require different solutions. In the case of explosions, it is not possible to eliminate the risk, but we can help mitigate it. It is however possible to eliminate the potential risk from overhead glass.
The characteristics of a chemical explosion differ from those of a bomb blast. For example, blast duration from a petro chemical explosion is of a longer duration than a small bomb close to a window. Bomb blast peak is instantaneous whereas vapour cloud is of a much longer duration and lower peak pressure, depending on the amount of fuel. Certainly, the most important factor will be the load of the explosion. Distances and charge should then be taken into account.
GUARDIAN has extensive experience in Risk Assessment to identify site specific solutions for protecting against the potential threats from explosion, including major projects for BP (Bomb Threat) , ESSO (Chemical Explosion Threat), TOTAL (Chemical Explosion Threat), NATIONAL GRID (Bomb Threat), THE FOREIGN OFFICE (Bomb Threat) and many others.
A conventional DAYLIGHT application of blast mitigation window film to the inside of the glass will often provide a sufficient level of protection. This can be enhanced by the application of silicone to bond all the glass edges to the window frame if necessary. The thickness of the window film can be between 100 microns and 350 microns depending on the area and thickness of the glass and the protection required.
The next level of protection would be a WETGLAZE application of blast mitigation window film to the inside of the glass bonded to the window frame with a high performance Dow Corning 995 Silicone. Again, the thickness of the window film can be between 100 microns and 350 microns depending on the area and thickness of the glass and the protection required.
For even greater threats, there is a range of MECHANICAL FRAME ANCHORAGE SYSTEMS available, from catching systems, restraint systems to clamping systems, all used in conjunction with the appropriate thickness of blast mitigation window film.
These systems can also be used to protect against potential risk from overhead glass.
We will help you identify the risks in your specific case. We will then agree the level of mitigation you wish to achieve. We will then recommend the most effective solutions using only products tested and approved to the relevant British, European and International Standards.
