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Feb 1, 2007 12:00 PM

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is proposing regulations to improve security at high-risk chemical facilities nationwide that will require risk assessment and site security plans that meet DHS's standards.

The Homeland Security Appropriations Act of 2007 granted the department authority to regulate the security of high-risk chemical facilities and requires that the proposed regulations be issued by April 4, 2007. Proposed regulations contemplate immediate implementation at the highest-risk facilities, and a phased implementation at other chemical facilities that present security risks addressed by the statute, beginning in 2007 and continuing through 2008.

DHS intends to implement its new authority quickly and apply it aggressively. The department will validate submissions through audits and site inspections, and will provide technical assistance to facility owners and operators as needed. Failure to comply with performance standards may result in civil penalties up to $25,000 per day, and egregious instances of non-compliance could result in an order to cease operations.