Access Control
& Security Systems

A panel of top security experts has determined another terrorist attack focused on seaports, energy systems and food and water supplies could result in even greater disruption to daily life and the economy.

The panel, chaired by former Senators Warren Rudman (R-N.H.) and Gary Hart (D-Colo.) pointed out the urgency to upgrade existing security considering the prospect of war with Iraq.

Rudman told The Associated Press that moving forward with the creation of the Department of Homeland Security is paramount to clearing up the problems.

Among the findings:

-- Local and state police have been operating in "a virtual intelligence vacuum."

-- A very small percentage of containers, ships, trucks and trains that enter the U.S. are subject to examination.

-- Oil refineries, and food and water distribution are still vulnerable to sabotage, biological attack or contamination.

This month in Access Control

• Opening Up About Door Closers
• An Enterprise Approach
• The Framework For Open Systems
• On A Higher Plane
• More from April's issue