Ensuring continuity of operations (COOP) and government (COG) is crucial for the success of all recovery programs. Both small- and large-scale chemical incidents have the potential to challenge continuity of operations, as chemical incidents may impede the timely movement of personnel, patients, MCM, PPE, and remediation/ decontamination and other supplies and equipment into and out of affected areas. Waste management can also be a challenge, as discussed in Section 4. Coordinated efforts are essential for efficient restoration of transportation pathways and critical infrastructure, and to support supply chains.
Plans and activities that support Continuity of Operations (COOP) and Continuity of Government (COG) should be implemented throughout all phases of recovery. Such implementation will rest heavily on the plans and prioritizations made during pre-event planning as well as decisions made throughout response and recovery.
The federal interagency can contribute personnel, resources, and other support to supplement state and local resources, as well as coordinate a larger-scale (multi-state, national, or international) response and recovery. The federal government can provide guidance and recommendations for interstate and/or international travel and mass transit, and personnel to assist in the transport of critical supplies. In addition to supporting COOP, these federal assistance efforts can support a positive business environment for achieving economic recovery outcomes. Federal support for recovery activities is described further in the Federal Preparedness, Response, and Recovery section of this document.