Is your screen security rated? In a recent Poll run by Prowler Proof, it was found that 57% of respondents were unaware that most diamond grille products installed in Australian homes are not classified as security screens.
To be classed as a security screen door or security window screen, as per Australian Standard, a product must be tested and pass all six tests set out in the testing. This includes a Dynamic Impact Test, Jemmy test, Pull, Probe, Shear and Knife Shear tests.
Any screen that has not undergone this testing, or any screen that has not passed all six of the tests, is deemed to be a barrier screen.
The results of the Poll make it clear that when asking yourself, is your screen security rated? That many Australian homes are being left unprotected, as their owners are unaware that the product they believe is security, is in fact not. Intrusion through a barrier screen can be much easier, and faster, than intrusion through a security screen.
Many homes when built include a ‘screening package’ which in many cases includes diamond grille screens, manufactured and supplied by the window company. Based on the Poll results, there is a risk that homeowners think they’re getting a ‘security package’ when they may not be.
Historically it has been difficult for homeowners to know when asked is your screen security rated? If the product that is being installed is in fact security.
The National Security Screen Association has helped resolve this issue for homeowners, with a check that manufacturers are labelling their screens as security screens, during their annual manufacturing auditing process..
If you buy a ‘security screen’, and it gets installed and you can’t see a compliance sticker. Ask your installer why.
Prowler Proof ForceField, Protec, Welded Diamond and SnapLock Diamond have all been tested and passed the requirements, and are labelled to reflect their status as ‘security screens’.