We’ve covered the main layers of the facility security organization (FSA, FSP, FSO, PSD, AO) in previous blogs. This week we’ll look at what’s in the pyramid’s capstone.

Now that the FSA, FSP are completed and the training program is established, the FSO must not become complacent. The Capstone to the Seebald Security Pyramid consists of regularly conducted Drills, Exercises, Audits and Reviews.

DRILLS – How often do you conduct drills? We know a security drill is required to be conducted every 90 days, testing one element of the FSP. There are many elements to your FSP. If you meet the minimal drill requirements, then you will test at only four elements of your plan. That’s NOT how you become proficient!

We recommend you conduct drills at least monthly, and, for all the Seebald Platinum Members, use the drills sent out every month to improve your security awareness. Drills are meant to test at least one element of your plan, so remember to document observations and do not conduct training during the drill or you will never achieve an accurate assessment. Drills do not need to be complicated, nor time-consuming. You can get better at conducting drills by conducting more drills! And remember, you are required to document best practices and lessons learned.

EXERCISES – Exercises are a full test of your security program and must include substantial and active participation from the FSO. They’re required once each calendar year, not to exceed 18 months. Exercises maybe full scale or live; tabletop simulation or seminar; or combined with other appropriate exercises. Each exercise must test communication, notification procedures, elements of coordination, resource availability, and response. As the same with drills, you must capture best practices and lessons learned. To ensure you meet the frequency of required exercises, we at Seebald & Associates will conduct and document and exercise at your facility during your annual audit.

AUDITS – The FSP is required to be audited annually by a subject matter expert outside of your security organization. The FSO should choose someone who will be critical and honest, so you get an accurate assessment in how the FSP is being executed. After the audit, the FSO is required to address the discrepancies. Remember, the audit report is Sensitive Security Information for the FSO only, do NOT show your audit report to the Coast Guard. The FSO must sign an audit record that documents when and who conducted the audit. Place the audit record with your security documentation – this is what substantiates your audit for the Coast Guard during your annual inspection.

REVIEWS – FSO Reviews are crucial to building and maintaining a security culture and requires dedication from the FSO in making security a priority. Reviews should be part of the FSO’s regular routine – this is security management by walking around. The FSO should be reviewing the FSP on a regular basis and not once a year two weeks prior to the annual Coast Guard inspection. The FSO should use the FSP to develop and use checklists during these walk around reviews. These checklists can include but not limited to: perimeter fencing, lights, security gates & guard posts, technical systems, communication systems, and information technology/cyber systems. During walk arounds, the FSO can review items on their checklist, conduct security training by stopping and asking PSDs and AOs security awareness questions, or conduct drills. Taking the time and making these walk around reviews part of your routine will improve the security posture and awareness on the facility.

Overall – remember, the Seebald Facility Security Pyramid provides you with the organization to secure your facility – the rest is up to you.