ATG Access has just launched its brand new Bridge Protection System - an innovation specifically designed to ensure civilians are truly protected from the threat of vehicle-ramming attacks when on bridges. The product has been successfully tested to both the IWA 14 and PAS 68 standards, stopping 7,500kg vehicles traveling at 30mph with less than 0.5m of penetration.

The 2017 terrorist attacks on both Westminster and London Bridges highlighted the urgent need for a tailored security solution to protect the public when crossing busy bridges on foot, as there were minimal security measures in place to prevent a vehicle from mounting the pavement and targeting pedestrians. The new system allows bollards to be fitted into a new, super shallow foundation structure, making it uniquely suitable for bridge protection. Robert Ball, engineering director, explains: "Bollards are the ideal security solution for walkways on bridges, as they ensure that pedestrians are not trapped behind a continuous barrier, however existing permanent bollard systems are not suitable for use on bridges." The new Bridge Protection System has a foundation depth of just 40mm, meaning that minimal excavation is required and the structural integrity of the bridge is maintained. Whilst the system was tested with the company’s Westminster high security bollard, the foundation and socket can also be used with other bollard types and shapes to suit individual security and aesthetic requirements.

Robert continues: "The Bridge Protection System […] will help to safeguard the general public by both deterring potential perpetrators from attempting to commit these ramming attacks in the first place, and ensuring they are not successful if they do."