Businesses and partner agencies in and around Leeds Bradford International Airport recently focused on terrorism as part of a national awareness campaign.
Around 35 representatives from businesses, airport security and the UK Border Agency took part in a half-day workshop in early March, designed to help them learn more about preventing, handling and recovering from a terrorist attack.
The event, which was organised by the airport’s neighbourhood policing team, was part of Project Argus – an Association of Chief Police Officers National Counter Terrorism Security Office initiative.
Representatives met up at LA Fitness, in Yeadon, where they were given an introduction by Chief Inspector Scott Bisset, of North West Leeds Division, before specialist security advisors from the Counter Terrorism Unit in Leeds took syndicates through a table-top exercise based around a simulated terrorist attack in a crowded area.
Attendees were asked to consider issues around security, the reporting of suspicious incidents, immediate action in a terrorist incident, recovery, contingency planning and business continuity.
Inspector Darren Huddleston, who heads the airport neighbourhood policing team, said: “The fact so many businesses were willing to give up their time to take part in the event is a clear indication of the commitment LBIA and surrounding businesses have to the security of their customers and staff. The feedback we received has been excellent with many of those involved commenting on the positive benefits of the day.”
