We hear about terrorist attacks after they happen. The stories are often accompanied by graphic images and videos that show the aftermath of these acts and such pictures have been emblazoned in our minds for decades. However, the silent deterrent force of anti-terrorism mitigation has prevented countless incidents and similarly saved innumerable lives over the years. Indeed, such technology and approaches are seen to be on the very real front lines of what has aptly been termed a “war on terror”. Still, these approaches are seldom heard of, for many of the techniques employed will remain behind closed doors for security and preventative measures. It should nonetheless be recognized that there is currently no way to eliminate terrorism from our society; mitigating its effects are the only real solution. From a structural standpoint, how is this done?
A Threat Assessment
Any high-value target will first need to be analyzed for vulnerabilities, access points and areas that will house people or sensitive equipment. This process is quite technical and many of the methods employed are proprietary. However, the end result will be a private organization determining which anti-terrorism mitigation techniques will be best suited for a particular structure. Obviously, no two requirements will ever be alike and it is for this reason that a security provider will offer bespoke plans based off of the unique metrics of the property.
Installations
After the assessment has been agreed upon, there are several structural components that can be used to minimize the effects of what would have otherwise been called a successful attack. Some of these will be outside of the premises and can include features such as roadblocks, checkpoints or a private security force. However, it is always best to take quite a pragmatic stance. For this reason, anti-terrorist devices such as blast curtains, safety screens, composite reinforcements and even EMI electronic countermeasures will be put in place.
The goal of all of these devices is obviously not to eliminate an attack from happening; this is up to security forces and the intelligence community. Rather, such physical additions are intended to safe lives, property and materiel. The efficacy of such structures will directly relate to their emplacement by trained professionals. Thankfully, there are a number of companies that currently provide such anti-terrorism mitigation and the choices available will continue to increase as new threats emerge.
Physical protection is the last and best line of defense in cases of a terrorist threat from either domestic or foreign sources. It proves wise to consider such options of a company if known to be such a target.
It is important to know what anti-terrorism mitigation options are available.
