This month’s S&A blog series to start out a new year focuses on using the Seebald Facility Security Pyramid to create a solid security organization. Like any structure, your organization needs a strong foundation. Our Facility Security Pyramid must be grounded by a solid Facility Security Assessment, which leads to generating an effective Facility Security Plan.

Your Facility Security Assessment (FSA) is the first step toward building your Facility Security Plan (FSP). Subpart C of 33 CFR 105 lays out requirements for your FSA. The FSA is based on a collection of facility background information, a complete facility on-scene survey, and an analysis of information collected. Part of this assessment requires you to conduct a Risk Based Analysis (RBA). The RBA is scenario-based and focuses on risk components made up of threats, vulnerabilities and consequences, which assists you in developing risk mitigating security measures.

Your FSP must address the risks identified in your FSA. Subpart D of 33 CFR 105 provides the FSP’s format, content, submission & approval, amendment and audit requirements. The FSP documents security measures required to protect your facility. Your FSP defines the roles and responsibilities of all facility employees – FSO, Personnel with Security Duties and All Others. The FSP also describes security measures to be taken for each MARSEC Level as well as defines appropriate actions in emergency situations. The FSP is required for re-submission every five years on its anniversary date. Also remember, the FSP is Sensitive Security Information and must be protected per 49 CFR part 1520.