EOP

The Public Utility Commission of Texas Adopts New Rules for Emergency Operations Plans For Telecommunications and Electric Providers

New rules regarding emergency operations plans (EOPs) were adopted by the Texas PUC on December 19, 2007 for telecommunications and electric utility companies in Texas. The rule changes are substantial, in light of post-9/11 national security regulations and Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

Telecom Rule #26.51 covers facilities-based local exchange companies in Texas. Electric service providers -- including power generation companies, electric cooperatives, retail electric providers, and others -- are covered by rule #25.53. The implementation and filing deadlines for both was May 1, 2008.

Annual exercises (drills) are also required, and CHR experts are available to facilitate and improve your plan.

+ Annual Exercises (Drills) Due

In January, the Public Utility Commission of Texas issued new rules requiring telecommunications providers and electric utilities to update their emergency operations plans (EOPs) by May 1, 2008, and conduct or participate in an annual drill to test emergency procedures if such emergency procedures have not been implemented in response to an actual event within the past 12 months.

If you "activated" your EOP during Hurricane Ike, you've probably met this requirement. Otherwise, you still have several months to fulfill your obligation.

Why should you consider using a CHR Solutions EOP professional during your drill?
  1. Our external expert can facilitate and evaluate your exercise (drill) to improve your plan and avoid internal politics
  2. It demonstrates your company's commitment to personnel safety and professional risk management
  3. Your community, customers and employees deserve the best plan possible
CHR already has helped many of its Texas clients meet their EOP exercise (drill) requirements. We're available to help you as well. Please contact your account representative listed below.

+ Download important documents

The following are available to help:
  1. Governor's Division of Emergency Management
    GDEM is runs the emergency management program for the State of Texas and assists cities, counties, and state agencies in planning and implementing their emergency management programs. You can get information on current Texas Disaster Declarations and various emergency management reports.
  2. TX PUC EOP final approved documents

For more information regarding changes for telecommunication providers, contact:

Rick Skogland (West Texas)
972.484.2323
e-mail: rick.skogland@chrsolutions.com

For more information regarding changes for electric service providers, contact:

Bill Youngston
713-351-5135
e-mail: bill.youngston@chrsolutions.com