The Emergency Programs Division operates the Operations Center, the USDA focal point for all emergency management and coordination at the USDA headquarters.  The Operations Center is staffed seven days a week, 24 hours a day.  The Center monitors international, national, and local news for items that may impact USDA and is the primary USDA entry point for emergency information from operations centers external to USDA.  The Center routinely coordinates and interacts with other Federal Department and Agency Operations Centers, local emergency coordinating centers, and USDA entities. The Center analyzes emergency requirements and makes internal and external notifications, as required.  The Center staff provides direct support to the USDA Office of Homeland Security in intelligence review and analysis. Develops and coordinates policies, capabilities, and procedures for response to emergencies affecting USDA personnel in the National Capital Region (NCR). 

Works with USDA Safety Staff Officers in disseminating emergency response guidance and information to USDA employees.  Responsible for designing, conducting and evaluating emergency response readiness exercises for USDA employees and agencies in the NCR; and, maintaining the readiness of the USDA Headquarters Incident Command Structure with appropriate staff, systems and policies.

Manages and coordinates emergency preparedness programs for building occupants within the NCR.  Develops and maintains required Occupant Emergency Plans (OEPs) for all Headquarters Complex buildings, George Washington Carver Center, and the Beltsville Service Center.  Conducts periodic training for Plan participants; coordinates with and supports personnel in leased facilities with development of OEPs and training of participants.  Oversees OEP and fire evacuation programs for two childcare facilities.  Manages complex-wide fire alarm, public address, and Warden phone systems.  Maintains liaison coordination with GSA for life safety systems and emergency preparedness programs for Headquarters Complex and leased facilities within the NCR.

Washington Metro Area Information