
U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Tom Ridge works closely with executives at private-sector and
government facilities to deter or mitigate terror attacks. Here Sec. Ridge is recognizing the contributions of Boeing employees in promoting security in global aviation. Boeing Chairman and CEO Phil Condit (left), along with other senior executives, met with Ridge and reviewed work currently under way to protect the nation. Photo: PRNewsFoto
Enforce a standoff zone:
A standoff zone is a secure area in which only pre-screened vehicles, bicycles, etc. are allowed to enter. A 100- to 300-foot standoff zone is ideal, but the effects from a blast are decreased in direct correlation to the increase in distance between a blast and its intended target. Therefore, even a 10-foot standoff zone is better than no standoff zone. Bollards, barriers and barricades (natural and man-made) enforce the integrity of the standoff zone.Implement surveillance detection:
: Nearly every major terrorist attack has been preceded by months and years of surveillance. Initial surveillance is usually conducted by amateurs or unwitting accomplices – children, taxi drivers, delivery/service persons, etc. – paid to take photographs, provide facility descriptions or other information (or information is surreptitiously elicited from them). Once a target list is narrowed, comprehensive surveillance is conducted by professional operators. Security personnel should be trained to observe and report unusual interest in a facility or activities that are out of context for the environment (e.g. a taxi driver photographing a service entrance). As planning progresses, operators may conduct tests or dry runs, such as attempting to enter a restricted door to test the security response, or driving the intended route to identify potential obstacles.Screen deliveries:
All delivery, service and courier vehicles and their contents should be screened using the following procedures:
- deliveries, other than courier services, should be scheduled in advance, and drivers should be required to present a bill of lading that reflects the driver’s name and a password issued by the Receiving Department;
- all drivers, including couriers, and their assistants should present photo identification and their presence should be documented;
- all license tags should be documented;
- ideally, cargo should be inspected by security at a remote location and sealed by security until arrival in the receiving area, where the seal is broken by building security or a receiving clerk/dock master;
- all incoming parcels should be x-rayed or physically inspected; and
- no parcels should be accepted anywhere other than at the designated receiving area.