The American Chemistry Council (ACC), along with the Synthetic Organic Chemical Manufacturers Association and the Chlorine Institute, has issued an expert's guide for implementing a quality site security management system.
The guide was developed by a group of security professionals and designed specifically for the chemical industry It will help member companies improve upon their existing security programs. Work on these guidelines began more than six months ago.
The guidelines outline typical elements of a good security program and suggest security practices that managers can consider and tailor to their facilities' particular circumstances. This includes information on risk assessment, prevention strategies, training, emergency response, and crisis management, and physical and cyber security issues.
During this time of crisis, every effort is being made to secure chemical manufacturing facilities and safeguard employees and communities, according to ACC. Companies are encouraged to use the information contained in the guidelines to help them analyze and improve their security systems.
The report builds upon programs such as Responsible Care, the chemistry industry's environmental, health, and safety initiative. It will be shared with communities, the general public, and a number of government agencies including Congress, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Justice, Environmental Protection Agency, and the Department of Transportation. The guidelines are now available and can be accessed by visiting www.AmericanChemistry.com.