Snipers test bulletproof barriers for SEPTA: SMART-TD was there

A new type of glare-resistant, bulletproof barrier has been installed in eight SEPTA buses. Senior Bus Vice President Alvy Hughes was present for the second round of testing, which included live fire, in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. 

Hughes traveled 510 miles from Charlotte, North Carolina to observe the test. He emphasized the importance of firsthand oversight. “Being here in person was vital. This isn’t just a test of glass; it’s a test of our commitment to our members’ safety. With the stakes this high, I know that our members deserve more than second-hand information.”  

The barriers were developed, in part, as a result of SMART-TD’s advocacy. When General Chairperson Anthony Petty learned from the members of Local 1594 that SEPTA had no plans to include safety upgrades in the 2025 budget, he organized a stand to demand better.  

Violence and operator harassment on public transit is common. SEPTA Bus Operator Bernard Gribbin, a member of TWU Local 234, was gunned down in 2023 by a passenger as he drove his route. The U.S. Army veteran had 12 years of experience as a SEPTA Operator in addition to his military training. There is no amount of preparation that could have ensured his safety. Physical barriers are a necessity for our members. 

When Petty was asked about Hughes’ commitment to being on-site for the test, he praised his dedication. “Alvy sits on the Board of Directors for one of the largest unions in the country. He could have easily delegated this responsibility, but Brother Hughes leads from the front.” 

Shots fired 

The test included live fire drills conducted by SWAT snipers using both 9mm and .357 magnum rounds. While the barriers withstood the majority of the shots, one round managed to penetrate the glass, striking a dummy seated in the operator’s seat. The bullet-proof glass was eventually breached following multiple shots in the exact same place with a high-caliber weapon.  

The results were promising, demonstrating that the barriers could provide significant protection against gunfire. 

“There’s still work to be done, especially on durability and weight,” Hughes noted. “But this is a major step forward. The barriers have the potential to protect our operators, which ultimately ensures the safety of the passengers as well.” 

Working toward a new national standard in transit safety 

The pilot project is now in full swing. The barriers, developed by Custom Glass Solutions, are designed to protect operators from physical assaults and gunfire, while allowing quick access for first responders in case of emergencies. If the barriers prove to be viable for long-term use, we expect SEPTA to expand the program across their entire fleet. Once complete, SMART-TD will use Philadelphia as an example to promote adoption of the barriers nationwide. 

Clear vision and uncompromising protection: New bus operator barriers mirror the SMART-TD bus department itself 

SMART-TD’s Bus and Transit Assault Prevention and Safety (BTAPS) Committee was instrumental in identifying the need for a glare-resistant solution to complement the bulletproof capabilities. Traditional bulletproof glass often causes problematic glare that affects the operator’s ability to monitor their passengers, other motorists, and pedestrians. 

BTAPS’ research and contacts discovered Custom Glass’ barriers, which are both bulletproof and glare resistant. By providing this solution to Brother Petty and our Bus Department, their due diligence resulted in tangible safety gains for SMART-TD members in Philadelphia.  

A Clear Commitment to Member Safety 

SMART-TD Local 1594’s ongoing push for improved safety isn’t just about eight buses or even one transit system. It’s about setting a new standard for bus operator protection across the country. As VP Hughes stated, “No worker should have to worry about their life being at risk when they clock in. This is just the beginning. We will keep pushing until every one of our members is safe on the job.”