DOE announces security initiatives

DOE announces security initiatives

Washington (Platts)--7May2004


Energy Secretary Spencer Abraham announced several initiatives to enhance
security at DOE facilities. In a speech today at DOE's Savannah River Site,
Abraham said he has instructed the National Nuclear Security Administration,
Office of Security & Safety Insurance, and Office of Intelligence to perform
regular reviews of DOE security. Abraham said he had tasked these offices to
review security assessments and the design basis threat and report back to him
in 90 days. DOE will also consider federalizing its security forces, creating
a special-forces security unit, increasing the frequency of exercises
simulating terrorist attacks, and consolidating sensitive nuclear materials at
a smaller number of facilities. Abraham also announced initiatives to speed up
background checks and improve recruitment and training of security personnel.