Asset protection Location: National Archives, Washington Client: USA Government Timing: 2009
The Problem: The National Archives and Records and Records Administration ((NARA)) is an independent agency of the USA government which is charged with preserving and documenting government and historical records including presidential proclamations, executive orders, and federal regulations. This landmark building in Washington D.C. has been fully protected against the possibility of atomic attack but not against flood. This vital asset, with its treasured contents, contains many underground floors and so the installation of an infallible flood protection system became a commercial imperative.
The Solution Two barriers were installed on opposite sides of the building to protect the most vulnerable points for possible water ingress. Barriers sizes: 2.5m.
The sandbag flood protection in place before the installation of the Self Closing Flood Barriers.
Preparation of the groundwork to fit the barrier into position outside the National Archives.
Workers on site preparing the groundwork to fit the Self Closing Flood Barrier in position.
Barrier 2 awaiting installation.
Entrance 1 to the National Archives with the Self Closing Flood Barrier in resting position, invisible and fully self protected.
Entrance 2 to the National Archives with the Self Closing Flood Barrier in position ready to be deployed, whilst in the resting position the barrier cannot be damaged in vehicle transit.
The flood pit of the Self Closing Flood Barrier is filled with water for testing.
Testing Barrier 1.
Testing the Self Closing Flood Barrier by simulating flood conditions.
The Self Closing Flood Barrier automatically and instantly deploys to protect the building from flood waters.
Information Updated on: 24 November 2011
