Port Phillip Prison, VIC

When you think of the most secure buildings, prisons would likely rank high on the list. So when Safetyline Jalousie louvre windows were selected for the new Fishburn unit at Port Phillip Prison it really reiterated how secure the system really is.

Architect Peter Bowe has extensive experience in complex projects and works predominantly with the corrections sector. In designing the Fishburn accommodation unit for 85 prisoners, including a staff training facility and a central stores building, the selection of materials throughout weighed heavily on their safety and security features. At the time, Safetyline Jalousie louvres were relatively new to the Australian market and Peter was impressed to find a louvre window product that could fit the very fastidious brief.

The louvres were required to provide ventilation into the common areas but there could be absolutely no compromise on security considering the nature of the project. The 106mm gap between each louvre would be impossible for a human to pass through and with stainless steel bars inserted inside of each louvre bearer, the product provided the necessary security without the added cost of retrofitting extra bars or grills. The louvres are built into the frame, and pivoted from the back edge which means that the exposed edge of the glass protrudes out of the building eliminating the risk of inmates harming themselves or others. Tested to 550kg impact load, the louvres can also withstand the roughest treatment.

Project Specifications

Quantity Supplied – 86
Height – 1414 (10 Blades) and 2629 (19 Blades)
Width – all approx 1100mm
Colour/Finish – Pearl White / Charcoal Satin / Anotec Natural Pearl
Louvres – 6mm Clear Toughened
Operation – Levers & Motorised LDF100 Drives
Architect/Builder – Bowe Australia