Ballistic Panels: UL 752 Tested, Fire-Rated, and Seamlessly Integrated

What Are Ballistic Panels?

Ballistic panels are engineered composite materials designed to provide bullet-resistant protection in walls, furniture, and millwork. They are commonly specified in courthouses, schools, banks, and government facilities where safety and discretion are critical.

Unlike heavy steel plating, ballistic panels are lightweight, easy to install, and fire-rated, making them one of the most versatile solutions for architectural security upgrades.

UL 752 Ballistic Testing Standards

Ballistic panels are tested to the UL 752 Standard for Bullet-Resisting Equipment, which defines performance levels against specific firearm threats.

• UL 752 Levels 1–10 correspond to handguns, rifles, and high-powered rounds.

• Panels are tested by firing controlled shot patterns at 12” × 12” samples.

• Successful panels stop all rounds with no penetration or excessive spalling.

Recent updates to UL 752 have introduced new designations:

• UL-HG (Handgun)

• UL-RF (Rifle)

• UL-SG (Shotgun)

This ensures specifiers can select the right level of protection for their project.

Fire-Rated Ballistic Protection

In addition to ballistic resistance, many fiberglass composite panels are also fire-rated, typically achieving a 1-hour ASTM E119 fire rating.

This means a single panel system can deliver dual protection—resisting both ballistic threats and fire exposure. For mission-critical facilities such as courtrooms, schools, and financial institutions, this layered defense is essential for occupant safety.

Concealed Security Behind Walls and Furniture

One of the greatest advantages of ballistic panels is their ability to provide hidden protection. Panels can be installed:

• Behind drywall or wall coverings — visually indistinguishable from standard construction.

• Inside woodwork — such as desks, reception counters, and judges’ benches.

• Within public spaces — where aesthetics and security must work together.

Ballistic panels allow for discreet protection without altering the architectural appearance of a space.

Easy Installation with Standard Carpentry Tools

Ballistic panels are designed for simple integration by carpenters and contractors.

• Cut to size using standard circular saw blades (carbide or diamond-tipped recommended).

• Fasten with standard drywall screws into wood or metal studs.

• No specialty equipment or adhesives are required.

This ease of installation makes panels suitable for both new construction and retrofit projects, reducing cost and downtime compared to traditional security measures.

Why Ballistic Panels Are the Smart Choice

Ballistic panels combine tested security, fire safety, concealed design, and simple installation into a single solution:

• UL 752 certified ballistic resistance.

• 1-hour fire rating for dual protection.

• Hidden installation behind walls, desks, and benches.

• Standard carpentry tools for cutting and fastening.

By integrating ballistic panels, architects and contractors can deliver unseen protection that strengthens security without compromising aesthetics.

Final Word for Specifiers

When safety is critical but visibility is not, UL 752 ballistic panels provide the ideal solution. They are fire-rated, versatile, and easily installed, making them an essential part of modern security design for judicial, educational, and financial institutions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ballistic Panels

Q1: What are ballistic panels and how do they work?

Ballistic panels are composite fiberglass sheets that stop bullets and prevent penetration. They are lightweight, fire-rated, and easily concealed behind drywall, millwork, or furniture in secure facilities.

Q2: How are ballistic panels tested to UL 752 standards?

are tested by firing specified calibers at 12" × 12" samples. To pass, they must stop all rounds without penetration or excessive spalling. Levels range from handgun to rifle and shotgun threats.

Q3: Are ballistic panels fire rated?

Yes. Most ballistic fiberglass panels achieve a one-hour ASTM E119 fire rating, providing both bullet resistance and fire protection during emergencies.

Q4: Can ballistic panels be installed behind drywall or furniture?

Yes. Panels can be hidden behind drywall, desks, judges’ benches, and millwork, providing discreet protection without changing the look of the room.

Q5: How are ballistic panels installed?

Panels can be cut with standard saw blades and fastened using drywall screws into wood or metal studs. No special tools are required, making them quick and cost-effective to install.