by jbs102909 j3 — October 30, 2009—Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano recently announced proposed standards for a 9/11 Commission-recommended program for the private sector, including businesses, non-profit organizations, and universities, to improve preparedness for disasters and emergencies.
DHS published a notice in the Federal Register October 16 seeking public comment on three new standards identified for adoption under the Voluntary Private Sector Preparedness Accreditation and Certification Program (PS-Prep). PS-Prep is a partnership between DHS and the private sector that enables private entities to receive emergency preparedness certification.
The notice proposes new PS-Prep standards to enhance operational resilience, business continuity management, and disaster and emergency management among participating private sector partners. The standards were developed by the National Fire Protection Association, the British Standards Institution, and ASIS International.
In addition to the standards in the notice already posted, DHS is establishing classifications and methods of certifications geared towards small businesses.
DHS requests comments by November 15, though it will accept submissions at any time. For more information or instructions on submitting comments, visit the PS-Prep Resource Center online.
