Company launches product to defend bridges from attackers in vehicles

East Yorkshire-based Heald, a designer and manufacturer of hostile vehicle mitigation security products, has launched a “Bridge Bollard System” in response to recent vehicle attacks on several bridges.

The firm explains that bridges are notoriously difficult to secure from the evolving threat of vehicle attacks via existing security devices, due to the need to either be installed by digging into foundations or by bolting to the ground which can affect the structural integrity of the bridge.

Heald set out to develop something which would take into account the level of security required while ensuring the structural integrity of the location.

The company says its Bridge Bollard System is the only product of its type to be crash tested to IWA-14 standards against an 18 ton vehicle travelling at 30-mph at a 30-degree impact angle.

Its interlocking design provides shared distribution of the load, while patent applied technology offers additional protection by anchoring the bollards into the ground upon impact, preventing the vehicle from penetrating the protected area.

While the product has been launched to address challenges specifically faced in protecting bridges, it is also applicable for other locations where excavation or even bolting to the ground is not possible. It requires no excavation and can be installed in 45 minutes, excluding civil works.

Managing director, Debbie Heald, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have achieved this rating for a completely surface mounted non-fixed solution. The potential for this product is huge for a wide range of uses and we look forward to further developments. Heald is again proud to be innovating to help protect our world.”

The firm has brought to market several innovative, patent-protected security products including the Matador, a sliding bollard system. This can be found protecting sites such as; Beale Street, Memphis, the French Quarter, New Orleans, Oslo Airport, Norway and many government buildings throughout the UK and Australia.