The continuing growth of air, rail and road travel both locally and internationally is matched by the facilitation of many new proposed transport projects and has highlighted the need to raise the efficiency of transport security. Good quality transport buildings should provide convenient public access to these services in a safe, comfortable and managed environment.
HS&S been involved in a number of major transport projects over the years, including airports, railway stations and sea ports. Many of these projects have formed an integral part of regeneration schemes in run-down urban areas.
HS&S assist with the identification of access control measures by reviewing and understanding the business processes needed for each project, and subsequently developing an access control strategy.
This process would include all stakeholders to ensure that everyone with a need to access defined areas has appropriate levels of clearance and access capability. Consideration is also given to a level of controlled access during emergency situations. The evacuation of people must be in line with the requirements for life safety; however, a capability for maintaining security integrity must also be identified to encompass false alarms and hoax incidents.
As with all transport security requirements, the use of an automatic access control system must allow for an integrated flexible approach and assist clients with the control and definition of user-groups. The programming and planning of such a system must also meet the requirements of the agreed strategy.
The competitive airport sector is subject to rigorous national and international regulations. They must operate in a way that meets aviation security, customs and immigration and national and international security regulatory requirements. However passenger comfort and experience are also critical elements in developing a successful airport business. Equally, the performance of airport retail and commercial outlets are essential aspects of aviation business. It is therefore vital to ensure the correct balance between commercial success and security is achieved.