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Chemicals of Interest (COI)

Last Updated: June 8, 2023 9:49:06 AM PDT
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Learn about the requirements of procuring and having Chemicals of Interest (COI).

Procurement and Storage

University of San Diego research laboratories and other facilities (e.g., shops, brewery, pool complexes, etc.) using or storing chemicals identified by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security as potential security risks must report any Chemicals of Interest (COI) to EH&S.

The chemicals listed below appear on the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (CFATS) list of regulated chemicals.

Review this list of chemicals during procurement and when doing chemical inventories. If you find any of the listed chemicals, contact EH&S to aid in the inventory determination and reporting process. EH&S will evaluate the inventory to identify if they are above the screening threshold quantities in order to comply with CFATS regulation.

Regulatory Requirement

Under the Department of Homeland Security, The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) oversees regulations that apply to chemical facilities, including laboratories. The goal is to keep hazardous chemicals out of the hands of those who would misuse them. In addition, The Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (CFATS) program identifies and regulates high-risk chemical facilities to ensure they have security measures in place to reduce the risks associated with these chemicals.  

Appendix A of the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (CFATS) regulation (6 CFR Part 27 lists more than 300 chemicals of interest (COI) and their respective screening threshold quantities (STQ) and concentrations. These COI are categorized under three main security issues:

  • Release: Toxic, flammable, or explosive chemicals or materials that can be released at a facility.
  • Theft or Diversion: Chemicals or materials that, if stolen or diverted, can be converted into weapons using simple chemistry, equipment, or techniques.
  • Sabotage: Chemicals or materials that can be mixed with readily available materials.

Facilities determined to be “high-risk” are required to develop a security plan and implement security measures that reduce the risks associated with their COI.

Resources and Related Links

Questions? Contact ehsea@ucsd.edu.