Protection Against Burglary & Attacks

Nearly every type of building requires some level of protection against forced entry. A security door assembly often serves as the first line of defense, significantly reducing the risk of break-ins, vandalism, or physical attacks.

Determining the appropriate level of protection depends on the building’s purpose and location. Government and religious facilities may face higher risks of targeted attacks, while retail and commercial properties are typically more focused on preventing theft. Schools and educational institutions often require a balanced approach—combining burglary prevention with enhanced safety measures for occupants.

Specifying Forced Entry Doors

When specifying forced entry–resistant doors and assemblies, design professionals in Canada should take into account several key factors:

• Budget considerations
• Severity and likelihood of the threat
• Type of risk — whether the concern is physical attack, burglary, or both
• Whether bullet-resistant protection is appropriate
• Which testing standards or performance criteria should apply

Below are some of the most commonly referenced test standards for forced entry–resistant systems:

ASTM F1233 – Standard Test Method for Security Glazing Materials and Systems

This is one of the most frequently specified standards for non-government forced entry applications. Products tested under ASTM F1233 are assigned a resistance rating from Level I to Level V. Testing involves simulated attacks ranging from 10 blows with a ball-peen hammer to 50 impacts with a fire axe, depending on the protection level.

ASTM F3038 – Standard Test Method for Timed Evaluation of Forced-Entry-Resistant Systems

Typically specified for high-risk facilities, ASTM F3038 evaluates how long a door system can resist a coordinated attack. Ratings can be specified for 5, 15, 30, or 60 minutes of forced entry resistance. The test involves six attackers using tools such as sledgehammers, crowbars, and battering rams to simulate real-world conditions.