National Security
COOP  Continuity of Operations ( COOP) is a term that evolved in the mid-1980s from a national security mission to ensure the survivability and sustainability of the United States against all-hazards threats from enemy nation states. In 1998, a Presidential Decision Directive (PDD 67) required Federal agencies to develop COOP plans for essential operations. In response, most agencies superimposed COOP functions into existing plans that would be required if and when a problem threatened serious disruption to agency operations. However, the threat of pandemic influenza (aka, the Bird Flu) has generated a renewed interest in ensuring that existing COOP plans have incorporated sufficient flexibility and specialized training to handle ever-changing situations. Additionally, private sector groups are now examining how to develop and implement COOP plans. The CDC estimates that between 15% and 35% of the U.S. population could be affected by an influenza pandemic, and the economic impact could range between $71.3 and $166.5 billion. Additionally, it has been estimated that a 40 percent absenteeism rate could occur for roughly two weeks at the height of a pandemic wave. Versar’s team of scientists and engineers understand the hazards that come with environmental and health disasters. We understand not only the need to protect your company’s assests but also your people. Versar personnel can help any organization customize and implement a COOP plan to meet their particular needs. Our staff will help ensure your agency’s functions are minimally impacted, by focusing your plan to cover these major areas.
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