Jul 26, 2016

Post-9/11 Domestic Safety and Security Standards

The events of Sept. 11, 2001, will long be remembered by Americans and the rest of the world. In the last decade, the U.S. Congress has sought to increase citizen safety and security in public spaces, taking measures to prevent future terrorist attacks. From response robots to explosives detection, ASTM Committee E54 on Homeland Security Applications has done its part to support Congress' efforts. When it comes to the nation's security concerns, more and more public officials and security experts want to know, "According to what standard?"

BOMB-RESISTANT TRASH RECEPTACLES

The technology of public security is often hidden or embedded in surroundings so it is not noticed by the untrained eye. Blast-resistant trash receptacles camouflage perfectly when placed in transit environments, such as subway platforms or during significant public events. Although undetectable as important security elements, they limit injuries and damage to facilities if an explosive is placed in a BRTR.

EXPLOSIVES TRACE DETECTION

Gas suppliers intentionally add noxious scents to their products to signal that harmful vapors are airborne, helping to secure our homes from gas leaks or even deadly explosions. But detecting explosives is much more difficult when screening airline passengers at airports. According to a National Institute for Standards and Technology impact study published in July, more than 15,000 explosive trace detection systems are in service today, helping to protect airports, airlines and passengers from danger.

EMERGENCY RESPONSE ROBOTS

In their work to protect the public, it is inevitable that emergency responders risk their own lives. However, urban search and rescue task forces are starting to use emergency response robots to help out when disaster strikes. Before deployment, first responders must know if the robot they're using is right for the job, whether it's finding victims at disaster sites or defusing explosives.

As for this September, a more heartening security concern is occupying the minds of East Coast public officials and security experts - the visit of Pope Francis to New York, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. In the 14 years since the events of 2001, we have learned a lot about security in public spaces, and ASTM standards are there in support.

Nicole Villegas is a student at Villanova University and ASTM's corporate communications intern for 2015.