CFATS Program Update

Since October 2006, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) was authorized by Congress to regulate security at chemical facilities deemed to be high risk. In order to do so, DHS created the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (CFATS), which apply to any facility that manufactures, uses, stores, or distributes chemicals listed on the CFATS “Appendix A” at or above a specified quantity. CFATS is administered by the Infrastructure Security Compliance Division (ISCD), part of the National Protection and Programs Directorate (NPPD) Office of Infrastructure Protection.

A chemical security inspector from ISCD will provide an update on recent progress made in the CFATS program. Topics will include a discussion on how Chemical-terrorism Vulnerability Information (CVI) helps ensure that sensitive information about the Nation’s high-risk chemical facilities is safeguarded, as well as instructions and clarification on how to file your CFATS Top-Screen and if necessary your Security Vulnerability Assessment (SVA) and Site Security Plan (SSP).

This session will also be used to answer any questions concerning the 18 Risk-Based Performance Standards (RBPS) and how to select and implement appropriate protective measures for your facility.

During this session, a chemical security inspector from the Department of Homeland Security will discuss the progress CFATS has made, Top-Screens and Site Security Plans (SSPs), Chemical-terrorism Vulnerability Information (CVI), and Risk-Based Performance Standards (RBPS). This session will also provide insight on common trends and lessons learned encountered in the field as well as provide information on how DHS is working with local planning committees to increase information sharing.