Hill & Smith Infrastructure reports on how airport security can be enhanced through the use of Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM).

Airports are critical infrastructures that require the highest levels of security to protect passengers, staff and facilities from various threats.

Among these, the risk posed by vehicle-borne attacks has become a significant concern in recent years.

Hostile Vehicle Mitigation measures are essential for safeguarding airport perimeters, entrances and other vulnerable areas.

This article explores the importance of HVM in airport security and highlights effective solutions provided by Hill & Smith Infrastructure.

Standards applicable for Hostile Vehicle Mitigation products

Pas 68 is a British Standards Institution (BSI) Publicly Available Specification (PAS) for impact testing and rating of hostile vehicle mitigation products, such as bollards, blockers and barriers.

IWA 14-1, an international crash test standard for testing vehicle security barriers, was introduced in 2013 with a view to harmonise the BSI PAS 68 specification and the American ASTM 2656 standard.

In September 2023, ISO 22343 was introduced by the British Standards Institution (BSI), defining the methodology by which vehicle security barriers, including bollards, barriers and road blockers are performance tested against vehicle impact.

Although both IWA 14 and PAS 68 are replaced by ISO 22343, there is no expectation or requirement on manufacturers to retest previously certified products to ISO 22343.

Therefore, existing products tested to IWA 14 and PAS 68 are still considered valid.

Understanding Hostile Vehicle Mitigation in airports

A crucial starting point of establishing a HVM strategy is performing a Vehicle Dynamic Assessment (VDA), during which existing security measures, potential routes, the type and the weight of the vehicle and the speed it could reach will be considered.

VDAs should be conducted by suitably certified, experienced and appropriately insured individuals.

Ultimately, the purpose of a VDA is to identify and verify products that can provide the appropriate level of protection against hostile or errant vehicles.

Following a VDA, Hostile Vehicle Mitigation is implemented which involves strategies and technologies designed to prevent vehicles from being used as weapons in attacks.

At airports, these measures are crucial for protecting high-traffic areas such as terminal entrances, drop-off zones, and parking lots. Effective

HVM not only deters potential attacks but also minimises the impact of any vehicle attempting to breach security perimeters, including accidental incursions.

Key Areas for HVM implementation in airports

1. Terminal Entrances and Exits

o The points where passengers and staff enter and exit the terminals are particularly vulnerable to vehicle attacks. Deploying high-security barriers and bollards at these locations can prevent unauthorised vehicles from approaching too closely.

2. Drop-off and Pick-up Zones

o These areas experience heavy vehicle traffic and are prime targets for vehicle-borne threats. Temporary and permanent barriers can control access and ensure that only authorised vehicles can enter.

3. Perimeter Security

o Securing the outer perimeter of the airport is crucial to prevent vehicles from gaining access to sensitive areas. High-security fencing, combined with barriers, can provide a robust defence against vehicle intrusions. This includes any Landside to Airside access points.

4. Parking Facilities

o Both short-term and long-term parking areas need protection against vehicle threats. Barriers and bollards can help control access and protect against potential attacks.

Solutions by Hill & Smith Infrastructure

Hill & Smith Infrastructure offers a range of HVM solutions tailored to the unique security needs of airports.

These products are designed to provide maximum protection while allowing for flexibility and ease of installation and are designed and manufactured to PAS68.

1. High-Security Barriers

o Hill & Smith Infrastructure’s high-security barriers are engineered to withstand significant impact forces, providing reliable protection against high-speed vehicle attacks. These barriers are suitable for permanent installations around critical airport infrastructure.

2. Bollards

o Bollards are versatile and effective for protecting pedestrian areas and building perimeters. Hill & Smith Infrastructure offers a range of bollards, which are crash-tested to international standards and can be customised to blend seamlessly into the airport environment.

3. Temporary Barriers

o For events, construction, or emergency situations, Hill & Smith Infrastructure’s temporary barriers provide quick and effective protection. These barriers are easy to deploy and can be configured to suit various security needs.

Hill & Smith Infrastructure’s HVM solutions

· Proven Performance: All products are rigorously tested to ensure they meet international security standards. This includes testing for impact resistance, durability, and effectiveness in real-world scenarios.

· Ease of Installation: Hill & Smith Infrastructure’s barriers are designed for quick and straightforward installation, minimising downtime and disruption at busy airports.

· Customisation: Solutions can be tailored to meet specific security requirements, whether integrating with existing infrastructure or designing bespoke barriers.

· Aesthetic Integration: Hill & Smith Infrastructure’s products are designed to blend into their surroundings without compromising security, maintaining the airport’s visual appeal while ensuring robust protection.

Hostile Vehicle Mitigation is a vital component of airport security strategies. Hill & Smith Infrastructure’ comprehensive range of HVM solutions offers reliable and tested protection against vehicle-borne threats.

By combining proven performance, ease of installation, and aesthetic integration, Hill & Smith Infrastructure ensures that airports remain safe and secure environments for passengers and staff.

More Security News