A new ASTM International standard (F2697, Test Methods for Physical Assault on Overhead Horizontal Fixed Barriers for Detention and Correctional Facilities) will help ensure that the ceilings of rooms in correctional facilities can withstand breakthrough attempts. The standard aims to promote the safety and security of facility staff, facility residents and the general public.

This is the latest in a suite of ASTM standards addressing secure areas within detention and correctional facilities. Previous standards addressed the security of doors, window, walls, ventilation grills and other structural elements.

According to ASTM member James Stapleton, chairman and CEO of Habersham Metal Products Co., this standard required creating a battering device to test vertically upward impacts, simulating breakthrough attempts.

Architectural, engineering and security-consulting companies will use ASTM F 2697 for design, construction and renovation projects. Manufacturers of ceiling materials will use the standard to test their products and improve performance.

These standards have been developed by Subcommittee F33.02 on Physical Barriers, part of ASTM Committee F33 on Detention and Correctional Facilities.

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Technical Contact: James A. Stapleton Jr., P.E., Habersham Metal Products Co., tel +1.706.778.2212, ext. 202; jas@habershammetal.com
ASTM Staff Contact: Joseph Hugo, tel +1.610.832.9740; jhugo@astm.org
ASTM PR Contact: Nathan Osburn, tel +1.610.832.9603; nosburn@astm.org

Release #9770