At AMS Schiphol, the security screening used to be conducted at each gate itself, with x-rays machines, metal detectors and the works. I think about two years ago they introduced centralised screening just after border control; having it decentralised probably cost too much.

I agree with you that security, as it stands today, is very wishy-washy. In the case of the US, it was downright bad before 9/11 (I once accidentally brought 6 long kitchen knives onboard due to poor packing), but now it is ridiculous and a collosal waste of money, with men touching me in places that no man except my doctor has ever touched me before... What I would hide in/down there is beyond my imagination...

But security is still necessary in some form, if only to provide some deterent. I suspect at old airports like LHR, security is much more difficult to control and implement, especially with the non-ceasing construction. But offices really should have access whatsoever to airside facilities. There should only be a limited number of ways to enter airside facilities/areas, and every entrance properly manned and requiring valid ID to actually open doors.

From the news report, my old apartment in Los Angeles seemed more secure, which required a swipe my card three times before finaling being able to unlock my actual apartment with my laser-cut key...