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.