DHS Takes Comprehensive Approach to Protect Chemical Facilities From Risk of Terrorist Attack

Nov. 2, 2007

ARLINGTON, Va., Nov. 2 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued Appendix A - a list of "Chemicals of Interest" - as part of the federal Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (CFATS) issued earlier this year in June. Risk-based screening of facilities based on this list will allow DHS to assess the potential terror threats ranging from theft and diversion of small quantities of chemicals, to potential consequences of deliberate terror attacks against larger chemical facilities. Facilities deemed "high risk" in this assessment will need to rapidly implement additional security measures, host DHS inspections, and face strong penalties, including facility shutdowns, for those that fail to act. American Chemistry Council President & CEO Jack N. Gerard issued the following statement:

"ACC strongly supports the broad and comprehensive approach taken by DHS to thoroughly evaluate potential security risks and protect tens of thousands of chemical facilities that are an essential part of the nation's critical infrastructure.

"DHS correctly recognizes that terrorism can take many forms and is applying a risk-based approach toward prioritizing chemical facilities in order to help thwart an attack and lower the attractiveness of these sites and essential products as potential terror targets.

"While DHS finalized the list, ACC members continued to take action. Over 100 facilities have already been working closely with DHS on an accelerated schedule to implement the stringent requirements of the CFATS.

"After leading the charge in Congress for chemical facility security legislation, ACC continues to be a strong advocate for federal security regulations to ensure that nationwide, all chemical facilities take the same steps our members have to enhance security. Since 2001, our members have voluntarily invested nearly $5 billion upgrading security as part of ACC's mandatory Responsible Care(R) Security Code."

http://www.americanchemistry.com/newsroom

The American Chemistry Council (ACC) represents the leading companies engaged in the business of chemistry. ACC members apply the science of chemistry to make innovative products and services that make people's lives better, healthier and safer. ACC is committed to improved environmental, health and safety performance through Responsible Care(R), common sense advocacy designed to address major public policy issues, and health and environmental research and product testing. The business of chemistry is a $635 billion enterprise and a key element of the nation's economy. It is one of the nation's largest exporters, accounting for ten cents out of every dollar in U.S. exports. Chemistry companies are among the largest investors in research and development. Safety and security have always been primary concerns of ACC members, and they have intensified their efforts, working closely with government agencies to improve security and to defend against any threat to the nation's critical infrastructure.

SOURCE American Chemistry Council

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