BRM is an abbreviation for Blast Resistant Module. These high security structures are engineered to withstand and protect against explosions caused by industrial accidents or deliberate terrorist bombings. BRMs typically incorporate modular designs that permit varied building configurations that can adapt to the available property dimensions. Blast resistant modules are deployed to protect personnel as well as valuable equipment, materials and data.
Protogetic defines a “security structure” as an on-site, detached building specifically designed for some type of protection from hostile intrusion, attack, or theft. These buildings can be used for working personnel or to store valuable information and property. Unlike a Blast Resistant Module, security structures are not blast rated.
Security structures are buildings such as guard houses, gatehouses, watchtowers and storage units that are not blast-rated against explosions. However, while not blast resistant, security structures often protect against other threats such as hostile attacks and forced entry. These buildings are often vital elements to a facility because they provide additional cover safety, perimeter security and access control. Some security buildings can double as storage units or personnel offices.
Some security outbuildings are rated for ballistic resistance and FEBR. Many have UL 752 ratings that offer protection against numerous firearms. You can search BRMs and Security Structures for a specific ballistic rating, including UL 752 Levels 1-10 or National Institutes of Justice (NIJ) protection levels.
Because of their highly specific design and purpose, BRMs are not typically used in civilian settings where explosive risks and threats tend to be minimized. Instead, BRMs are more likely to be deployed in facilities at high risk for either accidental blasts or deliberate explosive attacks. Many Blast Resistant Modules are mobile or portable so they adapt well to dangerous and/or hostile environments such as:
Nothing is bombproof. This is a term that is tossed around loosely but is not indicative of reality. There are multiple variables that dictate explosive force. This makes virtually every explosion unique. Influential factors include the type of explosive, blast duration, magnitude and standoff distance -- how close it is detonated to infrastructure and personnel. For these reasons, nothing is 100% blast-proof or bombproof. That is why Protogetic only refers to high security products, such as blast doors or blast windows, as being blast resistant. It is vitally important to remember that the purpose of a BRM is to increase survivability and minimize the explosive damage.
Explosions are rapid releases of concentrated energy in the form of heat, sound, light and of course, a shockwave. The shockwave is the key element here as its destructive energy moves outward from the blast epicenter in ALL directions. The further the shockwave travels away from its origin – its energetic force dissipates exponentially. If you'd like more detailed information about what defines an explosion, watch our Proto-Talk: Blast! Anatomy of an Explosion.
Standoff is the distance from the explosive device to whatever is being protected, whether it be a BRM, window, a door, building façade, column, etc. The closer the explosion – the more powerful the shockwave. So the same bomb 100 feet away is more destructive than if it were detonated 200 feet away. Larger standoffs produce smaller blast loads at what is being protected. Therefore, the larger the standoff -- the less “hardening” would be required, leaving additional resources for other functions or aesthetic considerations. With this in mind, a building can preemptively incorporate standoff distance into the property design. This is why many important buildings are surrounded by large plazas that prevent vehicle borne improvised explosive devices (VBIED) from being able to get too close to the building envelope.
Whether you are searching for BRMs, protective wall systems or blast resistant doors, Protogetic is the industry leader in protective design products. We have certified and documented Blast Resistant Modules in numerous ratings, sizes and configurations. Find the exact BRM or Security Structure you need in mere seconds using our detailed product filter. Stop wasting valuable time and visit Protogetic.com today.
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