Making sure your home is safe and secure is a major concern for most homeowners. A common option for protecting windows and doors from attackers, severe weather, and even unintentional falls is a security screen. But not every screen door is made equally, even if they all look very similar. When buying security screens, it’s important to look for the Australian Standards compliance labels to ensure you’re getting a product that offers real protection. Discover the significance of these stickers and what they represent to you and your family.
What Are the Australian Standards for Security Screens?
Australian Standards AS 5039 (Security Screen Doors and Window Grilles) provide the strict specifications that security screens in Australia must adhere to. These guidelines define how security screens are manufactured, installed, and tested, to ensure they resist actual dangers such as environmental factors and attempts at forcible entry.
A security screen bearing an AS 5039 manufacturing compliance label indicates that the screen has successfully completed a number of rigorous tests, such as:
- Impact Test: The test simulates an intruder kicking through a security screen using a 40kg bag of lead shot and sand, slammed into the screen with 100 or 200 joules of force, repeated five times. The joules it is tested to defines the security screen’s Security Level SL rating.
- Jemmy Test: The test simulates an intruder using a lever to break in. A 300mm screwdriver and 1.5kN of force are applied to all locking and hinge points for 20 seconds.
- Pull Test: The test simulates an intruder pulling out the screen. Up to 2kN of force is applied for 20 seconds at various points.
- Probe Test: The test checks if a gap can be widened enough to reach through. 1.5 kN is applied to each side of the opening.
- Knife Shear Test: The test uses a heavy-duty knife dragged along a 250mm line with up to 350N of force. Repeated three times with new blades.
- Corrosion Test: The test exposes screens to 240 hours of accelerated weathering to prove long-term corrosion resistance.
The AS 5039 installation compliance label indicates that the screen has been installed according to strict guidelines, ensuring it is securely fastened in your home’s structure. Proper installation is just as crucial as the screen’s design and built to ensure it performs as intended.
Why Should You Look for These Stickers?
Guaranteed Protection
A NATA-accredited laboratory has independently tested and verified security screens bearing the AS 5039 labels to meet Australia’s strict safety and performance requirements. This indicates that they are designed to resist hazards found in the real world, such as attempted break-ins. Without these stickers, you might be buying a “safety” or “barrier” screen that isn’t as sturdy and long-lasting as a real security screen. For instance, despite looks, most diamond grille screens offered in Australia do not adhere to these standards and are not classified as security screens. Prowler Proof’s Diamond products have been tested and passed the Australian Standards tests, and are marked with the AS 5039 labels to prove it.
Peace of Mind
When these labels are present, you can be sure that your security screen complies with Australian Standards and is robust. Given that security screens also act as barriers, this is particularly crucial for households with small children or pets. According to Australian statistics, around 50 children fall from windows or balconies each year and sustain serious injuries. Compliant security screens help prevent falls and keep intruders away because they are proven to withstand the forces involved.
Property Value Benefits
By providing a blend of durability, safety, and aesthetic appeal, security screens can raise the value of your property. By permitting airflow while preserving security, they also increase energy efficiency and may result in decreased electricity costs.
How to Spot a Compliant Security Screen
When you start looking for security screens, follow these steps to ensure you buy a compliant product:
- Check for the Labels: Look for the AS 5039 manufacturing compliance and installation compliance labels on the screen. If they’re absent, the product is likely a barrier or safety screen, not a security screen. Immediately ask your dealer why there is no labels.
- Ask for Proof: Request your compliance certificate from the dealer or installer. As part of the Australian Standards, the dealer must be able to provide you with this certificate, as evidence of which screens meet the Standards, and have been installed to the Standards.
- Choose Reputable Dealers: Only choose members of the National Security Screen Association (NSSA). They follow a code of conduct, undergo compliance audits and have access to information and training, to ensure they’re up to date with the Standards.
- Avoid DIY Installation: Even a compliant screen can fail if not installed correctly. Ensure a licensed dealer handles the installation to meet AS 5039 Standards.
The Risks of Non-Compliant Screens
Your house may become vulnerable if you buy a screen without the AS 5039 compliance labels. Non-compliant screens might not be able to resist forced entry, may be impacted by Australia’s severe weather, or might not offer enough protection from falling objects or debris during storms.
A Smart Investment for Australian Homeowners
More than just a barrier, security screens that adhere to Australian Standards are a long-term investment in the security, worth, and tranquility of your house. You can be sure that your screens are designed to improve the usability and aesthetics of your house while providing protection against burglars, severe weather, and accidents by looking for the AS 5039 compliance labels, and receiving your compliance certificate.
Speak with a reliable source, like a Prowler Proof dealer, who are all NSSA members, before making a purchase, and confirm that the product you will receive will have the required compliance labels.
Australian Standards – make sure you have the finest protection for your house.