CBA LAUNCHES NEW CODE TO IMPROVE SUPPLY CHAIN SECURITY

March 2010: To enhance the security of the chemical supply chain and guard against the potential threat of a terrorist attack, the Chemical Business Association today launched a Security Code as an integral part of its Responsible Care programme.

CBA LAUNCHES NEW CODE TO IMPROVE SUPPLY CHAIN SECURITY

March 2010: To enhance the security of the chemical supply chain and guard against the potential threat of a terrorist attack, the Chemical Business Association today launched a Security Code as an integral part of its Responsible Care programme.

Many supply chain companies already undertake security risk assessments in compliance with legislation applying to the carriage of dangerous goods or the Control of Major Accident Hazards (COMAH). 

"The new Security Code applies to all CBA member companies regardless of whether they already have a legal obligation to undertake security risk assessments.  In addition, member companies will be required, as part of our Responsible Care programme, to report any potential or actual security incidents to CBA," said CBA Director, Peter Newport.

The five-stage risk assessment required by the CBA Security Code involves - identifying potential security threats; identifying the nature of the vulnerability involved; implementing risk reduction measures; documenting the assessment; and subsequent monitoring and review.

In parallel with its Security Code, CBA has also issued voluntary Security Guidelines to establish best practice for the chemical supply chain.  "We have linked our new Guidelines to the Eight Guiding Principles of Responsible Care and are encouraging member companies to consider the measures suitable to their individual operations to reduce theft, enhance site security and help prevent terrorist incidents," said Peter Newport.

CBA's Guidelines recommend that companies develop and implement a Security Policy backed by formal Security Procedures.  These measures should be supplemented by information systems, documentation, training, and communications with stakeholders which allow a company's security policies to be fully audited - ideally by an independent third party.

Peter Newport said, "The new Security Code and Guidelines provide a detailed and systematic approach to security issues which represent a series of prudent measures for all companies in the chemical supply chain."

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Further information from:  Peter Newport, Director, CBA, 01270 258200

Notes to Editors

1.For the full text of the CBA's Security Code and Guidelines, go to www.chemical.org.uk

2.CBA's distributor member companies handle 2.3 million tonnes of chemicals each year with a market value of almost two billion euros.  CBA's logistics companies distribute 6.7 million tonnes of chemicals annually.  CBA members, the majority of which are SMEs, are the key industry interface with thousands of downstream

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