Enhancing security of large buildings

There is a real need to protect government structures, malls, and train and subway stations from chemical, biological, radiological and explosive (CBRE) threats. However, existing technology and know-how do not sufficiently counteract fatalities and injuries, damage to buildings, and the loss of capacity and services.

Thanks to the EU-funded 'Safety and protection of built infrastructure to resist integral threats' (SPIRIT) project, researchers developed tools to reduce damage, destruction and disruption to large new and existing buildings.

A risk assessment was carried out to demonstrate how susceptible a building is to attack. This led to tools for designers and builders to measure and categorise vulnerability, as well as to identify efficient and cost-effective mitigation strategies.

The partners compiled an extensive database of CBRE protective security and safety products like resistant window systems, a retrofit system for walls, explosion-resistant columns, and detection and filtration systems for use by the European Commission, governments and related stakeholders. The database includes product effectiveness, cost and improvement.

All project outcomes were integrated into a comprehensive, software-based risk assessment tool developed by the researchers. This tool first defines the dimension, layout and structural components of a multi-storey building, followed by the CBRE scenario. The data enables users to estimate the risks and aftermath of CBRE attacks on a building.

The SPIRIT tool provides risk measures for structural damage, casualties and economic loss. This data can be used for such countermeasures as structural enhancements, evacuation and air quality management.

SPIRIT has designed solutions to keep people who occupy large modern buildings as safe as possible. By introducing safety-based engineering and CBRE protection for public or private infrastructure, the project outcomes are slated to revolutionise building security.