AcuTech Consulting

Six Steps to Help Companies Prepare CFATS Site Security Plan
The first step involves formulating a strategy for developing the site security plan (SSP) required by the chemical facility anti-terrorism standards (CFATS). This includes formulating an overarching corporate-level policy and security plan and preparing facility-specific SSPs. During the site visit step, consultants review existing security measures and capture all necessary data, and, if needed, develop a template for use in multiple, similar-facility submissions. The third step, gap analysis, evaluates existing countermeasures identified in the previous step, and compares them with relevant risk-based performance standards (RBPS) metrics. During the identifying solutions phase, consultants recommend security measures that meet the RBPS, and, if possible, document how existing systems are sufficient to provide the necessary security. Step 5 involves using the information developed in the earlier steps to prepare the SSP via the chemical security assessment tool (CSAT). This establishes the foundation for approval, and forms the basis for future site inspections. The final step — inspection, audit, and ongoing support — provides independent third-party review of facility SSPs. This step also includes facility inspection-readiness assessments and training, as well as putting facility managers in contact with other organizations that are essential for meeting regulatory requirements. In the event of inspections or citations by the Dept. of Homeland Security, consultants will assist the facility.

Optellios

FiberPatrol FP1100-X security system
The FiberPatrol FP1100-X security system monitors the perimeter of a plant, typically via a single fiber optic cable. If the sensing cable is severed, the system remains fully operational by using distributed fiber loopback technology to reroute optical signals. It can be installed alone or as part of an integrated solution. Users can choose fence-mounted and in-ground installations. The continuous sensor cable can extend for miles and does not require electrical power anywhere in the field. As an option, the cable may include additional fibers for video and data transmission. The FP1100 uses a generic XML-based third-party interface (TPI) for alarm notification, which can be used for remote control and monitoring applications, such as setting a camera to automatically point to spots of intrusion.

AlertEnterprise, Inc.

AlertEnterprise software platform
The AlertEnterprise software platform integrates logical (i.e., computer system) and physical plant security across diverse systems, applications, databases, and geographically distributed assets. It provides real-time monitoring and correlation of logical and physical access events for timely detection of security violations, issuing of alerts, and coordination of response activities. Its risk-management approach follows a three-step process that aggregates blended threats from information technology (IT) systems, physical access-control systems, and critical process-control systems. This method uncovers previously undetectable threats and risks to supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, distributed control systems (DCSs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and video surveillance systems, among others. For example, the software prevents an employee from acquiring large quantities of dangerous chemicals by removing small amounts from multiple locations. It can also prevent a fatigued technician from entering the wrong commands and endangering the stability of a plant. Alert Enterprise protects against cyber attacks targeting chemical storage and transportation, water treatment and distribution, pharmaceutical, and port installations.

Future Fibre Technologies

FFT Secure Fence
FFT Secure Fence is a fiber-optic perimeter security and intrusion-detection system that pinpoints breaches to within 10 m along approved perimeter fences, which can stretch as long as 80 km. Multiple systems can be networked together to monitor longer distances. Performance testing demonstrates a success rate of better than 95%. An advanced signature-analysis feature virtually eliminates nuisance alarms. The system requires no additional electronics or power in the field, and is immune to both electromagnetic and radio frequency interference. The fencing is suitable for installation at government facilities, oil refineries, petrochemical plants, power plants, and seaports.

Ameristar Fence Products, Inc.

Impasse high-security fence system
The Impasse high-security fence system is a significant improvement over typical chain link and ornamental mesh fences. Impasse consists of heavy-steel palisades that allow facilities to incorporate multiple perimeter-security peripherals into the fence system. These peripherals, which include intrusion detection systems (IDSs), fiber optic networks, conduit, and closed circuit television (CCTV) monitors, combine to create a formidable design that is superior to, and typically less-costly than, a patchwork system. Its steel cross sections make this security fence a strong deterrent to casual breach attempts, and its multiple styles and rail configurations allow customers to choose the best design to result in reduced delay times when compared to other perimeter-security fences. Petrochemical and pharmaceutical manufacturing plants can deploy this physical security system as part of their efforts to comply with the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (CFATS).

Universal Safety Response

Ground Retractable Automobile Barrier
The Ground Retractable Automobile Barrier (GRAB) 300 is a flexible non-hydraulic barrier that absorbs energy. A reduced-risk alternative to rigid wedge barriers, the GRAB-300 keeps perimeters safe while protecting resources and lives. It deploys in less than 2 s and is reusable after impact. This single barrier requires only a shallow-mount foundation and replaces up to five conventional active vehicle barriers. It has a flexible power supply and can span multiple lanes.