How the Chemical Industry is Bolstering Security Post-CFATS Expiration

SeÃ¡n Ottewell, Editor-at-Large of Chemical Processing, recently published an article about how the chemical industry is responding to the expiration of CFATS. The full article can be found here, and below is our summary of the article:

The expiration of the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (CFATS) in July 2023 has pushed the chemical industry to proactively enhance security measures. These efforts come amid rising concerns about potential vulnerabilities left in the absence of CFATS, a program that previously provided federal guidance for protecting critical infrastructure. Today, chemical manufacturers are investing in cutting-edge boundary-protection technologiesâ€”from AI-powered surveillance systems to fortified gatesâ€”to mitigate threats and maintain operational safety.

Industry Challenges in a Post-CFATS Landscape

CFATS played a pivotal role in securing chemical facilities by mandating standards that safeguarded against terrorism. Its expiration has left a critical gap, as highlighted by Chris Jahn, CEO of the American Chemistry Council. In his editorial for Homeland Security Today, Jahn warned of potential risks, noting that without CFATS, over 100,000 individuals have not undergone vetting through the FBIâ€™s terrorist screening database since the program lapsed.

Despite these concerns, the chemical industry has shown resilience by leveraging private security solutions and adapting to new realities with innovative technologies.

Advanced Surveillance and Monitoring Solutions

Companies like Blue Eye have risen to the occasion with robust remote video monitoring (RVM) systems. Blue Eyeâ€™s strategic head, Davis Lim, shared that their services have seen a surge in adoption among industrial clients who mandate continuous monitoring even in the absence of federal requirements. Their comprehensive approach starts with site audits to determine optimal camera placements and includes pilot programs that enable customization of response protocols at minimal initial costs.

Lim noted that a pilot phase helps clients establish tailored response strategiesâ€”whether itâ€™s alerting employees or dispatching law enforcement during suspicious events. Blue Eyeâ€™s in-house monitoring platform, designed to work with existing camera systems, means rapid deployment (often within ten days) and cost-efficient scaling. This flexibility ensures companies can secure multiple sites, even expanding across borders, as Blue Eye has done with Canadian operations.

Smart Technology for Enhanced Detection

Complementing these efforts, Sightlogix has developed smart thermal cameras that detect intruder movement and position within milliseconds. Their innovative technology reduces false alarms, tackling common issues like atmospheric disruptions, which often trigger inaccurate alerts. This reduction not only enhances security but also cuts costs associated with false responses and maintenance.

Reinforcing Perimeter Security with TYMETAL

Physical barriers remain critical to comprehensive security. TYMETAL, a long-standing leader in security gate systems, has focused on adapting to current threats, such as vehicle-borne explosives and firearms. Todd Kehley, a certified gate designer at TYMETAL, emphasized that the company tailors its solutions to fit the unique needs of each facility, combining rated gates, fences, and bollards with surveillance and intrusion detection technologies.

According to Kehley, these robust measures are designed to protect personnel and assets while providing a crucial buffer that buys valuable response time during potential attacks. Despite the lapse of CFATS, compliance with high security standards remains essential for maintaining plant safety and productivity.

The Importance of Comprehensive Access Control

Access control is another critical aspect of modern security. Dutch technology firm Nedap has developed AEOS, a flexible, software-based access control system that integrates with video monitoring and biometric tools. AEOS allows facilities to precisely manage access permissions, providing security teams with a web-based dashboard to monitor and update access points in real time.

This system, chosen by global companies such as Saudi Aramco, supports comprehensive security by connecting multiple locations through a secure network. With features like long-range RFID readers and mobile app integration, AEOS offers customizable and scalable solutions for facilities of all sizes.

Strengthening Cybersecurity Posture

While physical security advancements are essential, the importance of cybersecurity cannot be overlooked. The Department of Homeland Securityâ€™s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has stressed the need for continued vigilance. Following an investigation into the hacking of CFATSâ€™ chemical security assessment tool, CISA has advised facilities to bolster their cyber defenses and reset shared passwords to prevent â€œpassword sprayingâ€ attacks.

A Resilient Path Forward for Chemical Industry Security

According to Todd Kehley, â€œAs terror threats around the world have become of greater concern, the Chemical Industry has taken a proactive approach.Â Through the use of technology and the fortification of boundaries and access points, the industry takes aim at being a less susceptible target.Â The safety of their workforce as well as that of the general public is of major concern due to the sensitivity of products that they handle.â€Â

The expiration of CFATS has underscored the chemical industryâ€™s need for comprehensive, self-regulated security measures. By embracing advanced surveillance, smart technology, and robust perimeter defenses, manufacturers are not only safeguarding their assets and personnel but are also reinforcing their commitment to proactive security strategies. As threats evolve, so too must the industryâ€™s approach, ensuring that both physical and cyber protections remain at the forefront of facility safety.

Contact TYMETAL today for assistance with perimeter security for your chemical facility.

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