Wastewater Systems Security
Security Overview
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.
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.
Vulnerability Assessments
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; and
- 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.
Vulnerability Assessment Requirements
Refer to Legislative History for Vulnerability Assessment requirements.