INTEGRATING SECURITY IN DESIGN: A GUIDE TO SPECIFYING SECURITY SCREEN WINDOWS AND DOORS - Architecture & Design
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INTEGRATING SECURITY IN DESIGN:
A GUIDE TO SPECIFYING SECURITY SCREEN
WINDOWS AND DOORS
wintecsystems.com.au
INTRODUCTION
Creating secure and safe buildings is a primary goal for security, but for most projects these type of changes are
architects, developers and other professionals in the Australian impractical or prohibitively expensive.
design and construction industry. Occupants want to feel safe in
their surroundings and protected from intruders, be it at home Under modern approaches to security and crime prevention,
or at their place of work. Well-designed buildings minimise security screen windows and doors offer an effective and
actual opportunities for crime and contribute to perceptions of economical solution that also delivers unobstructed views and
comfort and security. elevated levels of health, comfort and wellbeing. Rather than
contributing to buildings that operate or look like fortresses,
A key challenge in preventing crime is selecting and implementing security screen windows and doors create open, welcoming
architectural features that balance security concerns with cost, environments that keep people happy as well as safe.
performance and aesthetics. Clients are aware of the need for
security measures, but they want their spaces to still be beautiful This whitepaper examines the principles of crime prevention
and inspiring.1 Tacked-on, retrofit security features and deterrents through environmental design, and the benefits of security
are often seen to be obstructive or lacking in aesthetical value. screen windows and doors within that framework. We also look
Sweeping changes to the architecture, layout and surroundings at the main considerations when specifying security screen
of a building may be the most effective solution to enhancing windows and doors.
Well-designed buildings minimise actual opportunities for crime and
contribute to perceptions of comfort and security.
PRINCIPLES OF CRIME PREVENTION THROUGH ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN
The process in which security is integrated into architecture Access control and surveillance are closely linked. While opaque
is referred to as “crime prevention through environmental fences, doors and windows can provide an effective barrier
design” (or CPTED). According to the National Crime Prevention against intruders, they may obstruct sightlines to entrances,
Institute, CPTED is the “proper design and effective use of the parking areas and other areas of interest. It is recommended
built environment” to reduce fear and incidence of crime, and to consider positioning of windows, doors and light sources to
improve quality of life.2 In Australia, CPTED has been widely provide a clear line of sight from within the building.10
adopted by governments, police forces,3 planning bodies and
industry organisations. Territorial Reinforcement
Territorial reinforcement is based on the concept that people will
As opposed to traditional crime prevention strategies, which naturally protect areas that they feel ownership over. Potential
focus on “barrier techniques”4 such as locks, alarms, fences criminals perceive this control and are deterred from criminal
and gates, CPTED utilises opportunities for access control, activity.11 Design features that promote territoriality include defined
surveillance and territorial reinforcement. These strategies aim property lines and a clear distinction between private and public
to elevate the perceived risk of detection and apprehension, space using, for example, pavement, fencing and gateways.12
deterring would-be offenders from committing crimes.
Other CPTED Strategies
Natural Access Control In CPTED, there is a focus on improving building security
“Natural access control” refers to strategies for denying access standards – a concept referred to as “target hardening”.13 Target
to crime targets by using real and psychological barriers.5 hardening involves adding additional obstacles such as locks
Examples of real barriers include fences, locks, doors and and security screens as crime deterrents. Doors and windows
window barriers.6 Psychological barriers are design features, should meet a high standard of performance and quality, making
such as paving textures, signs, or nature strips, that announce it more difficult for intruders to gain access.
the “integrity and uniqueness of an area”, making the target
seem strange or difficult to potential criminals.7 The importance of management and maintenance is
acknowledged in CPTED. It is important to keep security
Natural Surveillance features in good working order.14 It has also been argued
The goal of natural surveillance is to make potential criminals that well-kept spaces lift social standards and expectations,
easily observable8 thus increasing the actual and perceived reducing the likelihood of aberrant behaviour.15
risk to the criminal. This concept is achieved by implementing
features that increase the visibility of people in or around target
areas.9 Examples include door and windows looking out onto
entrances and parking areas.
SECURITY SCREEN WINDOWS AND DOORS: A DESIGN SOLUTION
Increased Security Aesthetics
Security screen windows and doors are an effective design In terms of visual appeal, security screen windows and doors
solution for implementing CPTED strategies. Security screens with steel mesh infills are an unobtrusive design solution that
provide a physical barrier that is more difficult to break or cut enables an attractive, open and welcoming architectural style.
through, tamper with or remove than standard windows and Security screen windows and doors are available custom-made,
doors. This is due to the special features of security screen ensuring they can be easily matched to the building’s design
windows and doors, including: and colour scheme.
• stainless steel woven mesh that is resistant to shearing, impact Doors and windows with grilles and steels bars may be secure,
and slicing; but the visual effect of such features can contribute to an
• specially-designed security hardware, including hinges and oppressive, prison or fortress-like aesthetic and a feeling of
locks; and being trapped or locked in.
• high tensile, reinforced frames that can withstand pulling
and tugging. Health, Wellbeing and Comfort
Unobstructed outdoor views enhance the connection between
In addition to access control, security screens provide a semi- occupants and the outside world. Using semi-transparent steel
transparent barrier than enables clear sightlines to the outside, mesh, security screens allow windows and doors to remain
increasing opportunities for natural surveillance. Most security open while still providing a protective barrier. This alleviates
screen windows and doors are clearly visible from the outside, feelings of being enclosed and lifts the mood and comfort levels
deterring potential intruders who may be assessing targets for in indoor spaces. Unlike steel mesh, grilles and steel bars often
possible weaknesses and entry points. obstruct views to the outside due to their overt design.
Note that security screen windows and doors are listed as The mesh construction of security screens allows a natural flow
recommended security measures in CPTED checklists by of air to enter an indoor space and blocks out direct sunlight.
various local councils and authorities across Australia.16 This combination of natural ventilation and shading helps with
temperature regulation, increasing thermal comfort and reducingINTRODUCING ULLTRASAFE
Ulltrasafe from Wintec Systems is an innovative security
window and door screen solution that gives property
owners peace of mind knowing they are protected with one
of the highest performing and effective security products on
the need for artificial cooling or heating. Natural ventilation also the market. Ulltrasafe is suitable for residential, commercial
allows contaminants and stale air to be cycled out of an indoor and industrial situations.
space, improving indoor air quality.
Ulltrasafe’s advanced design allows clear unobstructed view
Mesh screening also provides control over the amount of natural of the outdoors and seamless integration with any building
light that enters indoors. Natural light filtering reduces the reliance design. Manufactured using 316 grade stainless steel
on artificial lighting and enhances the look and feel of an indoor woven mesh, 6063 T6 premium grade aluminium framing
space. Furthermore, mesh screens provide protection from ultra- and high security hardware, Ulltrasafe delivers corrosion
violet (UV) light. Prolonged exposure to UV light can damage and resistance and strength. This system is tested to exceed
discolour furniture, flooring and other household items. all Australian standards and is backed by an extensive
warranty. The tests undertaken were in accordance to the
Screen windows and doors stop pests from entering indoors. relevant security standard – AS 5039-2008 – including the
This reduces the reliance on pesticides and other toxic Dynamic Impact Test, Lock Attack and Knife Shear Test to
chemicals to control pests. Overexposure to such pesticides name a few.
and chemicals can cause headaches, dizziness, vomiting and
other health issues.17 Wintec Systems is committed to delivering reliable,
high quality solutions that are made to last with minimal
Design Considerations maintenance. Ulltrasafe security products are designed and
Not all security screen windows and doors are built the same. independently tested to withstand the harshest of Australian
Below are several key considerations when specifying the conditions including cyclonic debris requirements. In
appropriate solution for any given project: addition to using corrosion-resistant materials, this
system’s unique design does not require screws, rivets
• Australian security standards. Security screen windows or pins eliminating any possible cause for corrosion. The
and doors must be shown to meet AS 5039-2008 Security combination of weather resistance, easy maintenance and
screen doors and security window grille, which sets out the modern design ensures Ulltrasafe will retain its visual appeal
performance testing regime for security windows and doors. and effectiveness for years to come.
Testing under AS 5039-2008 simulates what an intruder
might do to gain access into a building and consists of the Ulltrasafe can be custom-built to suit any situation
Dynamic Impact Test, Pull Test, Jemmy Test, Knife Shear Test and budget. This system offers a variety of designs for
and Probe Test. The standard for installation is AS 5040- residential and commercial applications as well as profiles
2003 Installation of security screen doors and window grilles. to suit all types of security windows and doors.
Evidence of testing and compliance should be obtained from
the manufacturer, supplier and/or installation company.
• Material properties. Designers and specifiers should
consider the materials used in door or window systems in WINTEC SYSTEMS
relation to durability in local conditions, performance, and
impact on maintenance. Aluminium, for example, is a strong,
lightweight framing material that is less prone to corrosion An Ullrich Aluminium company, Wintec Systems has offered
and ideal for harsh environments. Materials that require only a range of innovative, stylish and functional windows and
minimal maintenance are likely to remain effective and retain door systems since 1997. All Wintec aluminium door and
a quality appearance over long periods of time. window systems are Australian-designed, tested and
• Security hardware. The design and quality of security hardware manufactured, featuring modern designs and premium
should be suitable for its security purpose. For example, frames quality finishes. Wintec has an ongoing commitment to
should be reinforced, and locks and hinges should be designed product development and high quality service, providing
and manufactured to be resistant to tampering. clients with access to the latest, cutting-edge solutions in
• Design flexibility. Custom-made windows and doors are often the window and door industry.
needed to meet the strict installation requirements in Australian
building standards and regulations. Leading manufacturers All Wintec door and window systems are tested to
also offer a variety of designs, colours and finishes. AS 2047-2014 and other relevant standards in NATA-
accredited laboratory No 14093. This ensures Wintec
windows and doors comply with the National Construction
Code and are suitable for the installation environment.
Wintec windows and doors carry a seven-year guarantee.1.
Evitts Dickinson, Elizabeth. “Designing for Security: A modern-day search for the intersection of safety and beauty.”
Architect Magazine.
https://www.architectmagazine.com/aia-architect/aiafeature/designing-for-security_o (accessed on 9 February 2020).
2.
Crowe, TD. Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design. 2nd ed. Boston: Butterworth-Heinemann, 2000.
3.
See e.g. South Australia Police.“Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) Strategies.” SA Police.
https://www.police.sa.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/2659/Crime-Prevention-Through-Environmental-Design-CPT-
ED-Strategies.pdf (accessed 9 February 2020).
4.
National Institute of Building Sciences. “Building Resiliency: Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design.” Whole
Building Design Guide. https://www.wbdg.org/resources/crime-prevention-environmental-design (accessed 9 February
2020).
5.
Geason, Susan and Paul Wilson. Designing Out Crime: Crime prevention through environmental design. Canberra:
Australian Institute of Criminology, 1989.
6.
National Crime Prevention Council. “Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design Guidebook.” Readiness and
Emergency Management for Schools. https://rems.ed.gov/docs/Mobile_docs/CPTED-Guidebook.pdf (accessed 9
February 2020).
7.
Ibid.
8.
Above n 4.
9.
Ibid.
10.
Above n 5.
11.
Above n 4.
12.
Ibid.
13.
Above n 5.
14.
Above n 4.
15.
Above n 6.
16.
See e.g. New South Wales Police. “Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) – Checklist.” Blacktown
City Council.
https://www.blacktown.nsw.gov.au/files/assets/public/public-exhibitions/spp-18-01556-r/ii.crime-preven-
tion-through-environmental-design-checklist-1.pdf (accessed 9 February 2020).
17.
Victorian Government. “Pest control in the home.” Better Health Victoria.
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/HealthyLiving/pest-control-in-the-home (accessed on 9 February 2020).
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