In August
2013, President Barack Obama issued Executive Order (EO) 13650, Improving
Chemical Facility Safety and Security, with the goal of enhancing the
safety and security of chemical facilities and reducing risks associated with
hazardous chemicals. In response to the EO, a group of federal agencies including
EPA, DOL, DHS, and the departments of Justice, Agriculture and Transportation worked
collectively to identify ways to enhance agency coordination and information
sharing; modernize policies, regulations, and standards to enhance safety and
security in chemical facilities; and work with stakeholders to identify best
practices to reduce safety and security risks in the production and storage of
potentially harmful chemicals.
The Chemical
Facility Safety and Security Working Group have issued an initial status report
that summarizes its progress, focusing on actions to date, findings and lessons
learned, challenges and priority next steps. View it here.