As COVID-19 began to spread rapidly across the United States weeks ago, The Monitoring Association (TMA) proactively initiated communications with the White House and federal authorities to inform key decision makers as to the critical role played by electronic security, fire, monitoring and life safety services and professionals. The Electronic Security Association (ESA) joined TMA in this request, and on March 28, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) released a notice explicitly mentioning the security industry.
The newest DHS CISA Guidance on the Essential Critical Infrastructure Workforce explicitly mentions the industry in two sections:
- Law Enforcement, Public Safety and Other First Responders (Page 6) Workers — including contracted vendors — who maintain, manufacture or supply equipment and services supporting law enforcement emergency service and response operations (to include electronic security and life safety security personnel).
- Communications and Information Technology (Page 11) Workers providing electronic security, fire, monitoring and life safety services, and to ensure physical security, cleanliness and safety of facilities and personnel, including temporary licensing waivers for security personnel to work in other states of municipalities.
While the list is advisory in nature and it is not, nor should it be considered, a federal directive or standard, many states are relying on this list when determining who is essential. Being explicitly mentioned makes it easier for TMA to make the case for the industry.
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