GW News - Mr. Dengg, the range of security products for windows, facades, doors and glass is increasing, while at the same time the number of intrusions is currently decreasing. How does that go together?
Sebastian Dengg - First of all, you have to look at these statistics very closely and understand them in order to be able to give a differentiated answer. For example, no distinction is made here between occasional or experienced perpetrators, nor is the type of building. Overall, it can be stated that many new developments of windows, doors and facades substantially offer higher mechanical security. And houses have been made safer by retrofitting existing windows and doors. A development that is to be welcomed and that can certainly deter most burglary attempts by opportunistic criminals.
In general, the following applies: A tested basic mechanical security system is to be assigned to resistance class RC2 at the most. In principle, this provides protection against opportunists who are not planning their crime. And the majority of recorded burglary attempts can be attributed to opportunists.
GW News - That means a simple system or an upgrade is sufficient?
Dengg - Yes, as long as all measures are fundamentally coordinated and implemented according to the project-specific requirements. This applies to retrofits just as much as to the installation of new assemblies. Even simple measures such as upgrading fittings can be sufficient. But beware, it is not uncommon for too much to be promised. If in doubt, always seek the advice of an expert.
This is especially true when it comes to security measures that are also intended to protect against perpetrators who are planning to break in. Here, a simple upgrade or resistance class RC2 is no longer enough. In these cases, it is usually RC3 or RC4. The standard refers to perpetrators who use a crowbar, axe, hammer or cordless drill. The burglary is often planned by often experienced perpetrators. The burglar-resistant requirements for windows, doors and facades are increasing rapidly.
GW News - Where do you see good market opportunities for the industry then?
Dengg - By bundling competences: The experience of expert security consultants, together with the production capabilities of system houses and fabricators or installation companies, can help to open up new customer groups. The end customer then benefits from the professional advice and the jointly implemented security concept.
In addition, we should always keep in mind: The safer we live, the more our need for security increases. And with the increasing need for security, professional advice combined with high-quality systems is also becoming more and more in demand. For the industry, this means that systems with mechanical burglary resistance should be further developed. At best in RC3 or RC4. We at Dengg engineering often develop such systems further together with system houses and fabricators.
[Burglary resistant window up to RC 2 even if tilted]
In general, mechanical protection takes precedence over electronic protection. This is also recommended by the police advisory centres. Only mechanical burglar resistance can effectively prevent a burglary. In the best case, electronics can deter the potential perpetrator. But it will not prevent the burglary.
GW News - How comprehensive does security equipment have to be?
Dengg - The scope and type of security equipment must always be considered on a property-specific basis. The definition of security measures is preceded by an individual hazard analysis and a risk analysis. The question is asked, what potential dangers could the persons to be protected be exposed to? Burglar resistance in combination with bullet resistance is not uncommon. The location of the property and the possible perpetrator profiles must also be analysed.
[Key points about the connection of frame and glass in security windows]
The entire development of a security concept with subsequent execution is complex and requires a high degree of experience. At Dengg engineering, we specialise in developing the highest level of security without making the building look like a protective bunker. This also has an effect on living comfort. As a rule, residents do not want to be reminded that they are exposed to high risks when they look out of the window. It makes sense to use systems that have a test certificate from recognised testing institutes and/or have been retrofitted or further developed by experienced companies.
GW News - What role does the price argument play when it comes to safety issues?
Dengg - Ultimately, it is always about minimising risk. And the higher the risk, the higher the effort to protect people or assets. The end customer must decide whether he wants professional burglar resistance, and if so, it should also be implemented professionally.
The interview was conducted by Matthias Rehberger.
About Sebastian Dengg:
Sebastian Dengg is an expert for mechanical intrusion protection and owner of Dengg engineering security. As a consultant, he supervises all project phases. Furthermore, he supports the development of products and special solutions as an engineering partner.
