Blast/Anti-Terrorist Engineering (back to top)

Blast-Mitigating Design
This is our core service. Using our proprietary computer modeling methods, which are tailored to the project requirements, we will evaluate the detailed structural design requirements to mitigate the effects of a defined explosive threat. Recommendations are also provided for site, architectural, ingress/egress, and MEP building systems, to provide a holistic solution that mitigates damage and facilitates evacuation and rescue efforts.

Defensive Architecture Consulting
The most cost-effective protection is secured in the planning stages of the design process, when choices of placement, materials, and space usage are made. We will provide design solutions for your site, building configuration, access points, exterior envelope, internal layout, and structural systems tailored to your site’s specific conditions and design constraints of your project to enhance protection.

Structural Damage Vulnerability Assessment
Existing buildings can be retrofitted and upgraded for improved response and to reduce the hazards associated with an explosive event. After making a field inspection and reviewing architectural and structural plans, we will pinpoint where your facility is most vulnerable, the potential extent of damage and casualties, and options available for enhancing protection.

Perimeter Security Design
A well-protected building need not, and should not, look like a blank-walled fortress. We design perimeter systems designs that are attractive, unobtrusive and effective. Solution types include fencing and wall systems, passive vehicle barrier systems, active vehicle barrier systems, interface with IDS and access control systems, interface with door hardware systems, forced entry systems (doors, windows, and walls), ballistic resistant systems, and RF shielding systems.

Progressive Collapse Analysis
We assess the likelihood of building’s suffering progressive collapse using our “progressive analysis” approach, employing successively more sophisticated analytical methods based on the vulnerability to collapse identified in the previous step. We then make preventative design recommendations taking into account the key structural vulnerabilities inherent in the buildings’ structural systems.

Blast Risk Assessment
We offer assessment of financial losses due to building damages, casualties, and business interruption possible for various explosive threat sizes and scenarios. We will compare the costs of blast protection enhancements to the expected benefits in terms of reduced losses, to identify the most effective solutions.

Explosive Testing Support Services
We design and coordinate test programs for innovative building design concepts and new materials. Our services include reaction structure design, instrumentation design, coordination with testing facilities, and pre-and post- test analysis.

Seismic Engineering (back to top)

Seismic Evaluation and Analysis
We will develop specific performance objectives suited to the needs of your project, based on data on historical performance of buildings in earthquakes.

Seismic Risk Assessment and Probable Maximum Loss (PML) Studies
We will evaluate the magnitude of risk and the extent of PML based on acceptable levels of safety and historical performance.

Seismic Hazard Mitigation Programs
We will develop appropriate mitigation strategies for buildings subject to seismic hazards.

Multi-Hazard (back to top)

Structural Damage Vulnerability Assessment
We evaluate high profile and mission critical facilities’ vulnerability to multiple hazards such as explosion, progressive collapse, and vehicular impact; forced entry, and ballistic attacks; and seismic hazards. In the process we review the risk and structural implications for fire and security; for chemical, biological and radiological hazards; and for emergency ingress/egress.

Multi-Hazard Mitigation Design
We design facilities to mitigate the effects of multiple hazards. Our optimal solutions are specifically tailored to the vulnerabilities and needs of your project. Each solution is rigorously evaluated, insuring that they do not make the situation worse for any other hazard.

Additional Services (back to top)

Pre-lease/Pre-purchase/Pre-funding Investigations
We will assess seismic and blast risk (including extent of damage and casualties) prior to acquisition, funding, or leasing of a building.

Peer Review/Value Engineering
To provide a proper sense of balance between the reviewer and the design professionals of record, ensuring that a design meets code and performance expectations.

Forensic Engineering and Expert Witness Testimony
After an explosion or similar event, post-incident evaluation of the cause helps ensure successful criminal investigation and prosecution. Credible witness testimony offered by Hinman further increases likelihood of a successful legal outcome.