Security Overview

Why Be Concerned About Wastewater System Security?

Anticipating problems can prevent them. In an emergency, first responders will come to help. Eighty percent of Wisconsin’s fire departments are staffed with volunteers. Protecting their safety by planning ahead is important. Chain-of-command protocols and proper communication are critical during an emergency. By taking preventive security measures, and anticipating and practicing how staff will respond in an actual emergency, everyone will know their roles and responsibilities during an emergency.

What Are Wastewater Security Measures?

Wastewater security measures are improvements to protect wastewater staff and plant assets in the event of natural disasters, communication and power interruptions, vandalism, and computer cyber attacks. These types of improvements help prevent or detect intruders, problems, and emergencies. Security improvements include the installation of security equipment, administrative procedural changes, and planning activities. (more on Security Measures...)

What is a Vulnerability Assessment?

A Vulnerability Assessment is a planning document used to identify the security measures appropriate for each wastewater system. The document:

• Creates an inventory of the wastewater treatment system and critical components
• Considers the effect of potential threats to the wastewater treatment/collection system
• Assesses the wastewater system’s vulnerabilities
• Identifies existing security measures
• Selects specific security measures to be implemented
• Considers the financial ability of the utility to pay for security measures
• Prioritizes the implementation of selected security measures

The Vulnerability Assessment is the wastewater facility’s plan for implementing security measures in accordance with a schedule that the utility develops. (more on Vulnerability Assessment...)

Are Vulnerability Assessments required?

Refer to Legislative History for Vulnerability Assessment requirements.

For more information contact: Julia Riley
Wastewater Specialist
(608) 264-9244