New Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards

02/12/2008

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (CFATS) for any facility that manufactures, uses, stores, or distributes certain chemicals above a specified quantity. This rule affects projects using chemicals at or above defined quantities/concentrations:

hydrogen peroxide - 400 lbs or more of 35% or greater concentration (approx 44 gal)

potassium permanganate - 400 lbs or more, any commercial grade.

These chemicals are considered to have a potential for theft or diversion to create an explosion or to produce an improvised explosive device. As of November 20, 2007, if a facility possesses a chemical of interest at or above the screening threshold quantity (STQ), that facility must complete and submit an initial online consequence assessment known as a Top-Screen. To start this process, go to www.dhs.gov. A facility must complete this process within 60 calendar days after gaining possession of the listed chemicals that are at or above the listed STQs. Many facilities that complete the Top-Screen may not be subject to further regulation under CFATS by DHS. High-risk facilities will have additional requirements.