January 10, 2007—The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has made available for public review an aggressive and comprehensive set of proposed regulations designed to improve security at high-risk chemical facilities nationwide. The regulations will be available for public comment until February 7, 2007.
The proposed regulations require that chemical facilities fitting certain profiles complete a secure online risk assessment to assist in determining their overall level of risk. High-risk facilities will then be required to conduct vulnerability assessments and submit site security plans that meet the department’s performance standards. The department will validate submissions through audits and site inspections, and will provide technical assistance to facility owners and operators as needed.
Performance standards will be designed to achieve specific outcomes, such as securing the perimeter and critical targets, controlling access, deterring theft of potentially dangerous chemicals, and preventing internal sabotage. Security strategies necessary to satisfy these standards will depend upon the level of risk at each facility.
For the Advanced Notice of Rulemaking, visit the DHS Web site.
