5/17/2006 10:30:27 AM
May 2006
Norix Group, Inc.
A New Zealand-made convex polycarbonate security mirror is proving its worth in American correctional facilities.
Mirrors have long been used for safety and security in blind spot areas, cells and common areas to allow security personnel to see at a glance what inmates are doing. However, most convex mirrors break easily and become a hazard rather than enhance security. A spokesman for a New England correctional facility says since installing Duravision mirrors in cells, none have been damaged or broken.
He went on to say, “We use the mirrors as a deterrent for suicide and as a means of keeping staff safe. We are able to do a room check and see the inmates at all times. If they are not in their beds or at their desks, or if they are trying to hide, we can find them easily and make sure they are safe.”
“In the past, inmates have broken mirrors and used them for self-mutilation, or as weapons against staff. Our DuraVision sales representative said the mirrors were unbreakable and he’s been proved right. That eliminates another major worry for us.”
DuraVision mirrors have been specifically designed for use in facilities where security and safety to both staff and inmates or patients are critical. The indestructible polycarbonate mirror is strengthened with high-density foam and a steel frame. Advanced mirroring techniques ensure the reflected image is clear and undistorted.
In 1997, New Zealand company, Bennett Mirror Technologies, was asked by Australian prison authorities to produce a virtually indestructible mirror for monitoring inmates in their cells. The result was the DuraVision Corrections line.
Correctional furniture company Norix Group, Inc. holds the US license to sell the Duravision line. Norix Sales and Marketing V. P. Ron Schram says the original testing of DuraVision mirrors exceeded all expectations.
“Australian architects conducted independent tests on four alternative international suppliers. The DuraVision mirror certainly proved its strength,” Schram says.
“The test was simple, yet effective. Four convex ceiling mirrors from different manufacturers were subjected to repeated blows. One of the four alternatives broke, and was found to be an acrylic mirror. The other two alternatives had severe delamination after only 10 blows. The DuraVision mirror, however, survived 100 blows with only mild surface scuffing and minor delamination. Both minor problems have been successfully corrected using new techniques.”
DuraVision mirrors are manufactured in New Zealand and are installed in correctional facilities internationally, including Australia, New Zealand, South America, the United Kingdom and the United States.
Convex dome mirrors are usually mounted on the wall opposite the viewing window in the cell door. At a glance, security personnel can see exactly where the inmate is at any time, reducing the risk of a surprise attack upon entering. The mirrors can also be used in other areas of a correctional facility including corridors, recreation areas, day rooms, hallways and outdoor yards.
The correctional facility spokesperson says the DuraVision mirror plays an important role in protecting his staff.
“If it wasn’t for the mirror the security personnel wouldn’t necessarily be able to see where the inmate was before opening the door. The individual could be up against the wall, around the corner or have a towel ready to throw around a staff member’s neck. If the inmate is in a crouched position or hiding when we look in the mirror we will tell him to move into our line of vision before entering the room.”
The spokesperson says his security staff were sceptical at first about the ’unbreakability’ of DuraVision mirrors, but now actively promote their use.
“Although the mirrors are a low tech option, they are the most effective security measure for us.”
Schram says while closed circuit television cameras are the most popular security measure in American prisons and jails, they are effective mostly in hallways and common areas, not in individual cells.
Norix recommends the use of DuraVision mirrors for real time surveillance, combined with CCTV cameras for added security.
In 2005 Norix sold DuraVision mirrors into more than 24 separate facilities throughout the U.S., including Massachusetts, North Dakota, Indiana, Florida, California, New York, Missouri, North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Kentucky, Texas and Arkansas.
For more information contact:
Brent Mayer
Marketing Communications Manager
Norix Group, Inc.
(630) 231-1331
bmayer@norix.com
