Attending scientific symposiums offers a wonderful opportunity to learn about the latest advancements in the field. Last December, I had the privilege of speaking at the International Symposium on the Interaction of Munitions with Structures (ISIEMS) in Bonn, Germany. There, I presented our risk-based approach to antiterrorism design for buildings to a diverse audience of scientists and engineers.
This effort was developed in house by our own risk-based thought leader, Arturo Montalva, and was the culmination of several months of hard work. I was excited to share and discuss our thoughts and concepts with the wider community.
My presentation focused on how to design structures that can withstand man-made explosive threats using a risk based approach. We evaluated the likelihood of explosions and examined the statistical distribution of explosive weights associated with different threat scenarios.
Our goal was to create a comprehensive framework that quantifies the risks linked to explosion events. Additionally, we explored potential physical security measures and assessed the risks to personnel from the effects of explosions on building components.
While this year’s symposium offered exciting new perspectives on a wide range of topics, I was especially heartened to see other speakers presenting discussions of a similar vein. There were several talks examining a more holistic and risk-based approach to blast design. It is thrilling to see a shift in focus to one that considers the broader implications of safety and risk management in antiterrorism design.
This evolution in the research community’s approach to blast design not only reflects a greater awareness of safety and risk management but also emphasizes the importance of collaboration across disciplines.
As we continue to explore these new perspectives, I am optimistic that our collective efforts will lead to innovative solutions that enhance not only security but also the resilience of our communities. It’s inspiring to think about the positive impact this shift will have on future designs and the safety measures we implement. Let us continue to engage in these important discussions and drive meaningful change in our field.