A facility asked for UL 752 ballistic glazing and got a level that did not match its threat. The panel was certified; the threat was higher. Choosing the level has to start with what the opening has to stop, not with a default grade.
Start with the threat, then the level
UL 752 ranges from Level 1, which stops 9mm handgun rounds, up to higher levels for rifle fire. The right level comes from the actual threat the facility faces: a cashier line usually needs a handgun level, while a courthouse or checkpoint may need a rifle level. The certified build — the layers and interlayers that meet that level — comes with test documentation. The frame and anchor are part of the system too, because a certified panel in a weak frame fails at the edge, so the whole opening has to be rated together.
Match the level to the real threat
- Threat: handgun, rifle or forced entry.
- UL 752 level that stops that threat.
- Certified build with test documentation.
- Frame and anchor rated with the panel.
How each level is mapped to a threat is covered in the how to choose a UL 752 level guide, and the level-by-level rating in UL 752 ballistic ratings explained.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I choose the right UL 752 level?
A:Start with the threat the opening must stop. A cashier line usually needs a handgun level while a courthouse or checkpoint may need a rifle level, then match the certified build to that level.
Q: Is a certified panel enough on its own?
A:No. The frame and anchor are part of the rated system. A certified panel in a weak frame fails at the edge, so the whole opening has to be rated together.
For a laminated or glass-clad polycarbonate ballistic panel quoted to your threat level, size and frame, email oversales@rpplexiglass.com with the threat class, panel dimensions, frame type and test-report requirement.