Facility Security Threats – What’s in our Risk Equation?

Last week we looked at the regulatory requirement to be aware of security threats and patterns. This week we’ll explore threats and risk.

Where do threats fit into our facility’s risk equation?

Before specifically starting our focus on threats, it’s essential to remember that threat patterns constantly change, and facility security threats vary from facility to facility. That’s why we must remain vigilant to our vulnerabilities and the consequences of an attack on our facility as critical factors in our risk equation, as they could be an indicator of the type of threats that we could encounter.

This points to the importance of a thorough Facility Security Assessment and Risk-Based Analysis. Those with intent to harm our personnel and facilities often plan and rehearse their attacks, and their methods are geared toward success. If we’re in tune with our risk profile – our threats, vulnerabilities, and the consequences of an attack – we can take actions to mitigate our risk.

Just as we have a risk equation for our facility, the Coast Guard takes a risk-based approach to security. A primary driver for setting our Maritime Security (MARSEC) Level is the threat to our nation, area, region, zone, industry or facility type. We can slice and dice our security readiness to be prepared for the threat, as dictated by the Coast Guard directing the appropriate MARSEC Level.

In next week’s blog, we’ll start to dig into the various types of threats we’re facing…

Also, did you know? …

The 2018 Facility Security Symposium (6-8 June in New Orleans) will allow port facility professionals from around the country and world to share their expertise as well as current and future trends. Attendees will hear from senior Coast Guard personnel and other key partners that will deliver cutting-edge insight on regulation changes with a spotlight on exemplary facilities that are leading the way. Register now to participate!