DHS adopts new standards for private sector preparedness for disasters and emergencies

Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano announced on June 15 the adoption of final standards for the Voluntary Private Sector Preparedness Accreditation and Certification Program (PS-Prep). This program, which was recommended by the 9/11 Commission, aims to improve private sector preparedness for disasters and emergencies.

PS-Prep is a partnership between DHS and the private sector that enables private entities to receive a certification from a DHS accreditation on emergency preparedness.

“Private organizations across the country -- from businesses to universities to non-profit organizations -- have a vital role to play in bolstering our disaster preparedness and response capabilities,” said Secretary Napolitano. “These new standards will provide our private sector partners with the tools they need to enhance the readiness and resiliency of our nation.”

The National Fire Protection Association, the British Standards Institution and ASIS International developed these new standards. The public was invited to comment on them when they were published in the Federal Register in October 2009. After a series of regional public meetings and the incorporation of the public’s comments, the new standards were published in the Federal Register on June 15.

DHS said it would continue to accept comments on PS-Prep, the three adopted standards or proposals to adopt any other similar standards that satisfies the target criteria cited in the December 2008 Federal Register notice which announced the program.