Security perimeter standards and physical-barrier technologies have rapidly developed in recent years due to increasing threats to buildings and human lives. Security perimeter technologies require assessing all risks and vulnerabilities. Based on crash-validation test standards, innovative technologies are available using analytic simulation tools followed by prototype validations. Attractive antiterrorism designs now can provide landscaping of city streets without deep excavations.
“The Specification for Vehicle Crash Test of Perimeter Barriers and Gates” was first published in 1985 by the U.S. Dept. of State and then revised in 2003. The State Dept. standard is being replaced with “ASTM F 2656-07 Standard Test Method for Vehicle Crash Testing of Perimeter Barriers.” State Dept. K-ratings and ASTM M-designations both specify an impact of a 15,000-lb vehicle (perpendicular to a crash barrier’s front face) at speeds of 30, 40 or 50 mph. The well-known K-ratings are based on the kinetic energy of the vehicle during impact.