Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano announced the final standards of the Voluntary Private Sector Preparedness Accreditation and Certification Program have been adopted after a series of regional public meetings and the incorporation of public comments.

PS-Prep is a collaboration of the DHS and private sector and is a program created in the afterquakes of 9/11. It is designed to improve emergency preparedness for disasters within the private sector. The program allows private entities to receive an emergency preparedness certification from a DHS accreditation system.

“Private organizations across the country—from businesses to universities to non-profit organizations—have a vital role to play in bolstering our disaster preparedness and response capabilities,” Napolitano said. “These new standards will provide our private sector partners with the tools they need to enhance the readiness and resiliency of our nation.”

Ps-Prep was recommended by the 9/11 Commission. The adoption of these final standards marks a historic milestone in DHS’ implementation of the program.