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Removable Ballistic Glazing for Temporary Executive Protection in a Historic Hotel
February 20, 2026
Security Provider: Total Security Solutions Inc
Project Type: Temporary ballistic protection in a historic hospitality setting
When a high-ranking foreign official required discreet, rifle-rated protection during a short stay in a historic Washington, D.C. hotel, the security solution needed to meet strict requirements. The suite could not be permanently altered in any way, yet the identified threat level demanded enhanced ballistic protection across multiple window openings.
This challenge called for a temporary, non-invasive system that could be installed and removed quickly, without compromising the building’s historic finishes or daily operations.
The Challenge: Temporary Protection Without Permanent Modifications
The official’s protective detail required rifle-resistant glazing inside a property where drilling, fasteners, or structural alterations were strictly prohibited. Conventional framing and anchoring methods were therefore not an option.
Any solution had to be freestanding, visually discreet, and capable of delivering reliable ballistic performance while preserving the appearance and functionality of the hotel suite.
Consulting and Threat Assessment
Total Security Solutions Inc conducted an on-site evaluation in close coordination with the security team to define threat levels, coverage areas, and a precise installation schedule. Priority was given to windows in the bedroom, bathroom, and seating alcove, where protection was deemed most critical.
Because there would be no opportunity to adjust materials on site, all measurements and specifications were finalized in advance to ensure a seamless installation.
Engineering a Removable Ballistic System
To comply with the building’s historic designation, TSS engineered a custom removable tension-bar support system. This innovative design secured each ballistic panel within the window opening through controlled load transfer, eliminating the need for screws or fasteners.
The glazing panels were fabricated offsite using laminated polycarbonate tested to the appropriate UL 752 ballistic standards, providing protection against high-powered rifle threats. Prototyping and assembly were completed at the company’s manufacturing facility to ensure accuracy and performance.
Rapid Installation and Complete Removal
Installation was completed just two days before the official’s arrival, allowing the suite to remain fully functional throughout the stay. Once the protective detail cleared the site, the entire system was dismantled and removed without leaving any trace, fully restoring the suite to its original condition.
The Result: Discreet, High-Performance Temporary Security
The removable ballistic glazing delivered the required level of protection while maintaining the hotel’s historic aesthetics and avoiding permanent alterations. The project demonstrated that effective ballistic security relies on a complete system approach rather than a single product.
Material selection was aligned with the identified threat profile and relevant standards, including UL ballistic ratings and, where applicable, forced-entry considerations such as ASTM F1233. Through a structured process, TSS supports specifiers and security professionals from initial assessment through installation and maintenance.
Proven Experience in High-Profile Security Applications
With decades of experience and tens of thousands of secured buildings, Total Security Solutions continues to deliver customized ballistic and physical security systems for executive, government, and public-sector applications—often under demanding timelines and site constraints.
Original case study:
https://www.tssbulletproof.com/case-study/removable-ballistic-glazing
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Company: 
Total Security Solutions Inc
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