Assignment:
Identify at least four structural and four nonstructural mitigation measures to prevent or reduce the impact of a portable nuclear weapon used by the Al-Quaida group.
Structural mitigation is very difficult to achieve in order to prevent or reduce the impact of portable nuclear weapons. The most limiting reality is that terrorists strike when it is least expected or where it is least expected. Structural mitigation is impossible to achieve over a wide area. The following are four structural mitigation measures that may have some impact.
1) Installing surveillance cameras and make sure they are working properly and that the footage is reviewed regularly. This is especially effective in high risk locations such as foreign consulates and other government buildings. Within the United States video surveillance can also be effective to find suspicious behavior or persons in the area of the building.
2) Ensure there is only one way in and out of a vulnerable compound such as consulate or embassy. Ensure that the gate can be locked down to deny entry or exit to any but authorized personnel. In this way the nuclear device will be kept as far away as possible from the building.
3) Provide gas masks and clothing that would offer some protection against a small nuclear attack.
4) Install appropriate "shower" rooms and other decontamination rooms at vulnerable buildings. These would be used in the event that people could not seek shelter in adequate time and were physically affected by the nuclear attack.
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