Westcoast Perimeter Security highlight the necessity of HVM service and maintenance
By Justin Faulkner, WPS.
Over the years of managing projects, client sites, and teams of engineers, I have consistently observed a distinct lack of consideration for regular PPM inspections. To provide clarity, it is helpful to break this issue into sections.
Project installations
Clients often dedicate considerable time and resources to implementing Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM) systems worldwide. However, a critical oversight is the lack of emphasis on PPM agreements and inspections. The focus is frequently placed solely on the initial costs of installation, with minimal attention given to the ongoing maintenance required to ensure the system’s longevity and performance post-handover.
This neglect often results in systems being operated until a failure occurs, at which point the end user demands an immediate resolution. This reactive approach creates challenges for manufacturers and installers, as there is typically no established maintenance relationship or communication with the end user.
Post-handover challenges
In many cases, end users seek third-party providers to address system failures. However, these providers often lack the necessary knowledge of the system’s controls, modes of operation, and, most importantly, the purpose for which the system was implemented. This disconnect not only hampers effective resolution but can also compromise the system’s integrity and reduce its effectiveness.
Long-term implications
The absence of regular PPM inspections significantly increases the risk of system failure, leading to higher long-term costs. Moreover, it undermines the critical role these systems play in ensuring security and operational continuity.
“When the (HVM) scheme is up and running it is important to keep it well maintained. Failure to do so will inevitably lead to products breaking down. This will likely impact the operability of the site or event and may create vulnerabilities that can be exploited by a hostile vehicle or make the product dangerous. Regular servicing will flag issues before they turn into serious problems.” NPSA Guidance
PPM Inspections: Tailored to operational conditions
Many manufacturers provide guidelines on service frequency, which can vary across the core manufacturers in the industry. However, in my experience, the optimal approach to Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) inspections should be based on the specific operational conditions of the system. Factors such as the number of operations per day, month, or year serve as critical indicators in determining the level of support end users require.
It is important to note that even systems with minimal use—such as those operated only once a day or even once a month—still require regular servicing. In fact, infrequent use can often be detrimental to the system’s condition and performance. Mechanical, hydraulic, and, in some rare cases, electrical components can degrade or fail when not used regularly, leading to unforeseen issues when the system is eventually operated.
Ensuring systems are operational and well-maintained is essential. This highlights the importance of advising customers effectively, helping them understand that routine maintenance is not just about system use but also about preserving the integrity, functionality, and longevity of their systems.
Contributing factors to system failures and the importance of proper maintenance
This is an interesting question and one I can speak about from first-hand experience, having spent 80% of my career working on the ground as an engineer. My extensive time in the field is why I now focus on supporting clients with PPM, callouts, and addressing product faults.
One of the primary causes of system failures stems from issues during the project installation phase, particularly oversights made during the procurement process for new products. As I highlighted in my comments on post-handover challenges, the failure to conduct effective and detailed PPM inspections is a recurring problem. Simply relying on quick fixes—such as “running around with a can of WD-40” – is not a solution.
Too many businesses within the security industry claim to have the expertise to conduct proper PPM inspections, but they often lack the necessary knowledge of the equipment and the critical purpose it serves. Unfortunately, cost considerations frequently drive PPM inspections, rather than focusing on the quality and depth of service provided. While this cost-driven approach may appear beneficial during procurement, it often leads to significant issues over the lifespan of the system. End users may end up spending far more over time by engaging companies that lack expertise or by relying on engineers whose skill sets are misaligned with the specific requirements of the system.
Many vendors, while eager to meet SLA (Service Level Agreement) requirements, simply send available engineers to site without considering their understanding of the system’s importance or its critical role for the end user. This disconnect can result in significant consequences for the system’s reliability, effectiveness and most importantly the safety and security of the end users.
While this may not directly answer the question, it underscores a very real and pervasive issue in the industry, which brings me to the core contributors to system failures.
Core contributors to system failures
- Lack of proper maintenance
Insufficient or poorly executed PPM inspections remain a primary factor. Maintenance should be proactive and thorough, identifying potential issues before they lead to failures. - Insufficiently skilled engineers
Maintenance must be performed by engineers with a deep understanding of the equipment and its operation. Without this expertise, key issues can be missed, and potential faults left unaddressed. - Failure to identify component wear
One of the critical aspects of PPM is identifying and addressing wear and tear before a system fails. This requires not only technical expertise but also a proactive approach to maintenance.
Common contributing factors to system failures
While most systems are inherently robust, the following elements are often at the root of failures:
- Presence devices: Malfunctioning sensors or detection equipment.
- Oil quality: Deterioration or contamination of hydraulic fluids.
- Filters: Neglecting to replace filters as needed.
- Relays and motor contactors: Failing to replace these components periodically.
- Mechanical components: Wear and tear on items such as ram pins, bearings, and drive belts.
- Prolonged neglect: Over time, minor issues with these components can lead to considerable damage, cascading into critical system failures.
Alternative measures for when installations are likely to be inoperable
The role of temporary security products in HVM
As the field of HVM continues to evolve alongside the ever-changing threats to national security, we are witnessing a surge of innovative products entering the market. In particular, the development of temporary security solutions is a noteworthy advancement. These products, designed to secure large formal gatherings or public events, have proven to be invaluable and are a great solution for using for additional applications.
One critical application of temporary security products would be their ability to mitigate risks when permanent HVM systems experience failures. By serving as a substitute until permanent systems are repaired and recommissioned, these solutions ensure that security measures remain robust and effective during downtime.
Limitations of using vehicles as HVM protection
It is a common misconception that vehicles can provide adequate protection onsite. While I have personally relied on my vehicle for this purpose on several occasions, the reality is that this approach is insufficient. Parking a vehicle strategically to shield a site access point or work area may offer a minimal level of protection, but it is far from an ideal or reliable solution – as was seen in the recent VAW attack in New Orleans, USA. Temporary HVM products would be much better suited to ensure comprehensive safety in such scenarios, as they are designed for easy and practical deployment/ removal.
Proactive safety measures
Deploying temporary HVM products at a safe distance from the work area provides a far more reliable and effective means of protection. These barriers not only safeguard engineers but also enhance the overall security of the site during maintenance activities. Additionally, their presence can act as a deterrent to potential threats, ensuring that both personnel and assets remain secure.
The critical importance of proactive PPM in HVM systems
The effectiveness of HVM systems hinges on more than just their initial design and installation. As this comprehensive analysis highlights, the lack of focus on Planned Preventative Maintenance poses a significant risk to the functionality, reliability, and longevity of these critical systems.
Proactive and well-executed PPM programs are not merely an operational necessity—they are the backbone of a system’s ability to perform under real-world conditions. Neglecting routine maintenance, failing to employ skilled engineers, and allowing cost considerations to overshadow quality compromise not only the systems themselves but also the safety and security they are designed to ensure.
The integration of temporary security products offers a valuable complement to permanent systems. These solutions fill critical gaps during maintenance and system downtimes, ensuring continuous protection and safeguarding engineers working onsite. However, they should not serve as a substitute for a robust and consistent PPM program.
By addressing these challenges and adopting a proactive, informed approach to maintenance, stakeholders can ensure that HVM systems deliver on their promise: protecting people, infrastructure, and national security. Investing in the expertise and resources needed for effective maintenance is not just a cost—it is an essential step toward securing a safer future.
About the Author: Justin Faulkner
With nearly 25 years of experience in the security industry, Justin has cultivated a distinguished global career centred on customer-focused solutions and excellence. His journey began at Gunnebo, where he specialised in the pedestrian access sector. He then transitioned into the Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM) industry, working with Avon Barrier and ATG, rising through the ranks from engineer to project manager.
In recent years, Justin harnessed his extensive expertise to co-found a business partnership with Lee Holloway. Together, they deliver comprehensive product support services tailored to the needs of clients and manufacturers in the HVM industry. Supported by a trusted team he has worked with for many years, Justin’s deep knowledge of HVM systems, paired with his practical experience, allows him to provide a truly unique and invaluable support service.
Justin remains committed to building strong partnerships, fostering innovation, and delivering exceptional service that sets the standard in the security industry.
Images courtesy of Heald