Access and Security: What to Consider When Purchasing Glass Display Cases
How Secure Should Your Glass Display Cases Be?
When investing in glass display cases for museums, galleries, retail, or heritage environments, access and security should be planned together from the outset. A well-designed case protects objects from theft and damage while supporting safe, practical access for staff and long-term usability.
Attack Resistance and Case Construction
Security begins with the structure of the case. For valuable or sensitive objects, attack-resistant construction is often required rather than standard glazing.
→ Framed cases are preferred for higher-security applications, protecting vulnerable glass edges.
→ Laminated glass should be fully supported with 25–30 mm of edge coverage to reduce forced-entry risk.
→ Suppliers should confirm alignment with national guidance on attack-resistant display furniture.
Shelving, Brackets, and Internal Access
Internal fittings are critical to overall security.
→ Specify multiple shelf support and bracket options to allow for changing layouts.
→ All shelves and fixings must be robust and tamper-resistant.
→ Poorly designed fittings can create weak points within the case.
Safe and Practical Opening Mechanisms
Controlled staff access is key to safety and efficiency.
→ Cases should be operable by one trained person without excessive force.
→ Doors and panels must open smoothly without creating pinch points.
→ Consider how access works in tight spaces or public areas.
Plinths, Voids, and Hidden Compartments
Plinths and base cabinets often house services or structural components.
→ Access points within plinths must not compromise the secure display volume above.
→ Weak under-case access can undermine even strong glazing and locking systems.
Locks and Locking Strategies
Locks play a central role in case security and must be clearly specified.
→ Provide at least two locking points on each opening panel where appropriate.
→ Common options include cam locks, internal cam systems, claw locks, mortice locks, hook-bolt mechanisms, and electronic systems.
→ Manufacturers should supply full lock specifications for assessment prior to installation.
Concealed Security Features
Visible security fixtures can detract from display quality. Concealed systems offer discreet protection.
→ Hinges, reinforcements, and locks can often be integrated into the case design.
→ Experienced suppliers can maintain strength while keeping hardware unobtrusive.
Alarms and Monitoring
High-risk displays may require electronic monitoring.
→ Contact alarms can be fitted to doors and panels.
→ Vibration or shock sensors detect impact or tampering.
→ Systems must integrate with existing building security infrastructure.
→ Alarm integration should be discussed with suppliers at the specification stage.
Safe Maintenance and Cleaning Access
Maintenance access must be considered alongside security.
→ Staff must be able to clean and maintain cases without risk to themselves or the objects inside.
→ Access procedures should be straightforward and documented.
→ Lighting, shelving, and fixings should all be accessible without specialist tools where possible.
Key Management and Access Control
Key management is an often-overlooked element of display case security.
→ Establish a clear key custody and signing-out process.
→ Consider master-key systems across multiple cases for operational efficiency.
→ Electronic locks allow access logging and remote deactivation if keys are lost.
About Access Displays
Founded in 1990, Access Displays is an award-winning exhibition and display specialist based in Swindon, UK. The company provides modular and bespoke exhibition stands, portable displays, museum showcases, graphics, and project management services for clients across the UK and worldwide. Known for quality, innovation, and exceptional customer service, Access Displays has delivered projects for four Olympic Games and supported hundreds of national and regional museums.
For more information, visit www.accessdisplays.co.uk.
