Manchester Arena inquiry

June 22, 2021

In light of the Manchester Arena Inquiry report published Security Buyer has secured comment from security specialist ATG Access, outlining the importance of a holistic approach to security, in which security professionals and physical security measures work in tandem to provide the best protection against terror attacks and other threats.

Iain Moran, Director at ATG Access, commented: “One of the most startling findings in today’s report is just how important it is to guard against complacency amongst security staff when it comes to the potential for terrorist activity.

“The number of ‘missed opportunities’ highlighted really underlines the crucial role that police, security staff, and other employees play in the prevention of devastating events such as these.

“However, it’s also clear that there were failings in the physical security measures at the arena too, with poorly planned perimeter security and CCTV blind spots making it harder for those involved to identify and apprehend the attacker.

“This emphasises the need for a holistic approach to security, where carefully implemented and maintained physical security solutions are in place that make it possible for security professionals to do their job as efficiently and effectively as possible.

“However, while we have long been advocates for much tighter regulations around event security procedures, and hope that any new legislation will make the roles and responsibilities of venues and event organisers much clearer, we absolutely agree with the report’s assertion that ‘the Protect Duty must not be so prescriptive as to prevent people enjoying a normal life.’

“Security measures should be visible enough to offer reassurance to event-goers and serve as a deterrent to would-be attackers, but we must avoid creating a fortress mentality as it’s essential that people feel free to enjoy themselves.

“While it remains to be seen what the new Protect Duty will entail, we hope that this report will serve as a wakeup call for those involved in the security of events, large and small. Regardless of our legal responsibilities, we must remember that we have a moral duty to keep the public as safe as we possibly can.”

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