Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards
July 12, 2013
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has released a 2-page information sheet for first responders on the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (CFATS), the guideline helping DHS regulate security at chemical facilities considered to be high-risk. Examples of such facilities are mining operations; chemical storage, distribution, or manufacturing facilities; or even healthcare centers.
Chemical facilities should engage emergency responders in the development of the Site Security Plans, enabling responders to know what threats, vulnerabilities, and risks they may face and prepare well before a potential incident. Likewise, emergency responder agencies may bring up issues and concerns the facility staff hadn’t considered.
The CFATS program has a number of tools available:
- The Help Desk provides support for facility owners and operates an anonymous tip line for reporting security issues;
- The Knowledge Center stores articles, documents, and an FAQ section;
- Subject matter experts and security inspectors are available for calls and outreach meetings.
Find out more at www.dhs.gov/chemical-facility-anti-terrorism-standards. Click here to download the information sheet.
Source: Department of Homeland Security
