We go about our daily routines, walking through public spaces, attending work and enjoying events, rarely considering the hidden threats around us. Fortunately, advanced security measures operate behind the scenes to keep us safe. In an era where safety concerns are paramount, the importance of effective hostile vehicle mitigation cannot be overstated. Ensuring that bollards and other protective measures meet stringent standards is essential to maintaining secure and accessible environments for everyone.

At GK Solutions, our mission is to save lives. We offer live-tested physical security products that address a wide variety of threats. All our products meet global standards and are customised to the exact specifications of each project. As specialists in hostile vehicle mitigation, here is some essential information on bollard standards.

What is Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM)? 

Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM) involves a range of security measures designed to prevent and mitigate the impact of vehicle-related threats, from vandalism to sophisticated terrorist attacks. This includes countering threats such as vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices (VBIEDs) and vehicle-ramming incidents. HVM aims to protect public spaces by addressing the potential risks posed by vehicles, including cars, vans and trucks.

Effective hostile vehicle mitigation involves deploying barriers, bollards and other security measures to prevent unauthorised vehicle access and reduce the risk of damage from vehicle impacts.

These strategies establish protective standoff distances to diminish the potential effects of explosive devices or ramming attacks. By integrating these measures thoughtfully, security solutions aim to safeguard vulnerable locations while balancing security, aesthetics and public accessibility. 

About key bollard standards (PAS 68 & IWA 14)

Choosing the right bollards involves understanding critical Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM) guidelines. Compliance with key benchmarks like PAS 68 and IWA 14 is essential, as these define the necessary performance and capacity to ensure robust protection.

PAS 68

PAS 68 is a British Standard that outlines performance requirements and testing methods for vehicle security barriers. It evaluates how well barriers, such as bollards and crash-rated fences, can stop vehicles of different weights and speeds, ensuring they prevent penetration and protect against vehicle-borne threats. Adhering to these guidelines ensures a high level of protection.

IWA 14

International Workshop Agreement 14 (IWA 14) is a globally recognised standard from the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) for vehicle security barriers. It outlines performance, impact testing and installation guidelines to verify barriers withstand specified vehicle speeds and weights. Following IWA 14 ensures that security solutions meet rigorous international benchmarks for effectiveness and durability.

In addition to PAS 68 and IWA 14, GK Solutions also adheres to standards set by the National Protective Security Authority (NPSA). These standards provide additional guidelines for testing vehicle security barriers against aggressive and repetitive impacts, ensuring our products can withstand even the most determined attacks.

Bollard types and installation depths 

Our diverse range of high-security bollards is designed to meet hostile vehicle mitigation needs and deliver optimal protection and performance:

  • Hydraulic bollards: Provide strong automatic operation for high-traffic areas.
  • Electro-mechanical bollards: Offer reliable and efficient automated control.
  • Manual bollards: Ideal for locations requiring flexible, user-controlled access.

The depth of installation is a crucial factor in selecting hostile vehicle mitigation products. In urban environments, limited space and numerous underground services, such as fibre optic cable, water and sewerage at varying levels, often complicate deep installations, making shallow installation products ideal. Additionally, shallow installations can reduce construction time and costs, minimise disruptions to existing infrastructure, and maintain the area’s aesthetic integrity.

The Matador – an exclusive, premier solution 

At GK Solutions, we approach safety with a profound sense of responsibility. Our flagship product, the Matador, is our response to the need for dependable protection in critical spaces. It reflects our focus on delivering practical, high-quality solutions that address real security concerns.

The Matador is a sliding barrier designed to stop a 7.5-ton vehicle travelling at 64 km/h. Its standout feature is its shallow installation depth of just 155 mm, making it particularly suited for urban settings where deeper installations are hindered by underground utilities such as fibre optic cables and sewage systems.

“The Matador’s shallow depth and robust performance make it an invaluable asset in city settings where space and infrastructure pose significant challenges,” says Gavin Queit, director at GK Solutions. 

Speak with the experts in physical security solutions 

“Our extensive expertise in risk management and counter-terrorism allows us to deliver solutions that not only meet but exceed industry standards, providing unparalleled protection for high-profile structures and events.” – Gavin Queit 

At GK Solutions, our dedication to integrity and safety means we never compromise on quality, ensuring that our clients receive the best possible hostile vehicle mitigation solutions. 

Contact us today for more information on our range of security solutions, including bollards, barriers, glazing and guard booths.