The Secret Diary of LionBytes

Learnt today that while we cannot fuly predict and prevent terrorist attacks, some measures can be taken to mitigate their effects on people and buildings should such unfortunate incidents occur.

Past events have shown that the use of vehicle bombs is a common mode of attack. In such a situation, the effect of the bomb blast would depend mainly on the quantity of explosive used, whether the vehicle is a car or a truck as well as the distance of the blast from the building.

Fire is another major threat. This could be the result of arson or the consequence of an explosion.

The use of chemical, biological or radiological agents could also be a mode of attack.

It is difficult to determine which buildings would be at risk from an attack. In general it would likely be buildings of exonomic, cultural, or social importance or significance, and it could be private or public buildings.

Furthermore, even if a building is deemed to be at risk, it is not easy to specify with certainy the details of the threat as they could constantly be changing over time and it also depends on the security measures and readiness of the building.

For a new building, a combination of security measures could be employed during the design, construction or operation stages of the building as appropriate.

A few relative simple, practical and cost effective security measures and buidling desing considerations that could help lessen the severity of a terrorist attack on a building include the following.

1. Provide stand-off distance
2. Check fire proofing
3. Assess building resistance to progressive collapse
4. Provide emergency evacuation measures
5. Configure services systems for emergency response
6. Provide various security measures
7. Provide reinforced concrete lift shafts and staircase cores
8. Avoid use of scissors staircases
9. Keep air intakes out of reach
10. Provide smoke stop lift lobbies
11. Provide cell enhancers
12. Provide separation between higher risk areas and main building complex
13. Avoid common lift systems, limit access points and provide clear signage
14. Carry out rigorous assessment and analysis of building systems
15. Protect against flying glass

# posted by LionBytes @ 3:08 PM