Safetyflex Barriers, part of the GME Springs Group based in Coventry, has completed the testing of its Truckstopper 2 system – a spring barrier which can protect key sites and premises from terrorist “ram raid” attacks.
The Truckstopper 2 has been put through its paces at the MIRA testing ground centre near Nuneaton off the A5 and has successfully stopped a 7.5 tonne lorry travelling at 40 mph.
The tests have been overseen by MIRA and national security experts, and Truckstopper 2 has achieved the British Standard PAS68.
The standard is the highest level of testing required by the security and anti-terrorist industry on product performance and it has prompted a string of enquiries.
Marcus Gerard, of Safetyflex, said the Truckstopper 2 appealed to security people because of its versatility and its innovative technology. He said: "The product really has caused a splash in the anti-terrorist market, as there is nothing in the market place like it.
"The Truckstopper Barriers are a series of u-shaped steel posts made from special spring steel set in a footing of only 400mm deep and one metre wide.
"Not only does it protect whatever it is guarding, but in the event of an attack only the damaged pillars will need replacing rather than the whole structure, which is not the case with all fences.
"Because of our expertise in spring technology which has been built up over 40 years, we have designed a barrier which is very resilient to withstand very high impacts.
"Everyone will be familiar with the barriers that have been installed since the rise of the threat of terror.
"Truckstopper 2 and its predecessor have been through a whole raft of tests and modification at MIRA before winning this very high standard."
He added: "During the research and development phase for Truckstopper, we undertook another test for an invited audience of international security experts and again the product came through with flying colours.
"Since then, we have been inundated with calls from organisations ranging from embassies, financial institutions, key government departments and airports."
