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.