Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk 78 THE door industry journal spring 2023 Automated Gates & Barriers Preparing for the Protect Duty Now the Protect Duty Bill is set to become law, Richard Winstanley at BFT Automation explores the role of Hostile Vehicle Mitigation in a protective security strategy … “The new Protect Duty legislation will require high-capacity venues such as football stadia and concert arenas to devise and provide specific security plans in case of a terror attack. As hostile vehicles have unfortunately become increasingly relied on by those seeking to launch an attack, Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM) should be among these considerations. However, there are several points to consider before deciding which solution is best and it can be difficult to know where to start. Assessing the risk A risk assessment carried out by a suitably qualified person will naturally play a big part in deciding whether HVM measures are needed at a venue and, if so, which solution would work best for any of the risks identified. Some examples of what an HVM risk assessment should include are: 1. Identifying all vehicle access points This includes looking at any weak areas that may be particularly vulnerable. 2. An investigation of the local environment The surrounding roads are likely to have an impact on the threat of HVM. For example, how traffic currently flows around a venue’s location and whether this can be reviewed to keep vehicles further away. 3. Parking considerations If the introduction of security barriers is likely to impact access to parking facilities, some measures can be taken to address this, such as the use of automated bollards that can be lowered to allow entry. Fixed vs Automated One of the first decisions to make before the introduction of bollards is whether it’s more appropriate to use a fixed or automated option. Fixed bollards can present a clear, visible deterrent to potential attackers and are an ideal solution for venues in areas that are typically accessed via foot, by bike or where people congregate. However, a solution such as retractable bollards comes into play for all points where vehicles need to travel in and out of the site. For example, BFT’s X-Pass range of automatic bollards is an ideal choice for settings where there’s a need for flexibility to accommodate temporary changes in traffic flow or events. Each bollard has its own self-contained hydraulic pump unit, allowing it to be raised or lowered with just one command. Plus the bollards are equipped with a fail-secure system, meaning that in the event of a power failure, they remain raised, preventing unauthorised access. BFT’s automated bollards can be integrated into a building management system (BMS), where a security team would be able to control them in the same way they would a CCTV system and an alarm network. To complement this, the EFO (Emergency Fast Operation) – which rapidly raises the shaft in the event of an emergency – can be specified on the 1200mm bollard.” BFT is a member of the Perimeter Security Suppliers Association (PSSA), the trade association for companies involved in the supply and installation of products designed to provide high levels of physical protection and intruder detection. The PSSA has a dedicated hub of information purely on HVM products, including advice on threat risk assessment, spec writing and installer selection tips: www.hvmhub.com/about/ BFT Automation is part of the Somfy group. For more information visit: www.bftautomationuk.com
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