V ,.rI r> O -r- '
Office of Water (4608T) EPA 800-B-20-001 September 2020
Public Safety Power Shutoff
Standard Operating Procedure
Template
-------
Public Safety Power Shutoff Quick Reference Matrix
TOPIC
PSPS PHASE
Blue Sky
Planning
48-hour PSPS
Notification
Zero Hour
Power Out
24 Hours
Without Power
Continued
Power Outage
PSPS
Recovery
Generators &
Backup Power
Determine
generator
needs and
sizes (p. 2)
Review "Blue
Sky" plans (p.
11)
Verify
generators are
running
correctly (p.
18)
Evaluate efficacy
of Blue-Sky
planning (p. 21)
Check generator
status and
operations (p.
27)
Identify staff and
start demobilizing
generators (p.
32)
Fuel
Assess fuel
needs (p. 3)
Confirm supply
contract with
vendor (p. 11)
Manually
check fuel
storage levels
(P. 18)
Monitor burn rate
and adjust run
time estimates
(P. 21)
Check fuel
delivery and
confirm fuel
availability (p. 27)
Polish stored fuel
(p. 33)
Communication
Ensure all
emergency
contact
information is
up to date (p.
4)
Review
Communication
procedures (p.
12)
Verify two-way
radios are
operating
correctly (p.
18)
Set up charging
stations for cell
phones (p. 22)
Communicate
with the public
and provide
updates (p. 29)
Inform all
partners and
responders that
power has been
restored (p. 34)
Partnerships
Form a
relationship
with the
Division of
Drinking
Water (DDW)
(P- 6)
Check if county
Emergency
Operations
Center (EOC) is
activated and if
there is a water
desk/WSSP (p.
14)
Check partner
communication
systems (p.
19)
Provide County
Office of
Emergency
Services (OES),
DDW, and
general manager
with your utility's
operational
status (p. 23)
Confirm
communications
with CalWARN
(California Water
and Wastewater
Response
Network),
CalOES, and
local EOC (p. 29)
Determine
continuing
mutual aid needs
and manage
associated
paperwork;
settle vendor
accounts (p. 35)
Supervisory
Control and
Data
Acquisition
(SCADA)
Train staff to
operate plant
without
SCADA (p. 7)
Backup data
and print out
key information
and action lists
(p. 14)
Respond to all
active SCADA
alarms (p. 19)
Evaluate water
usage during
previous 24
hours and adjust
set levels to
reflect change in
water usage (p.
24)
Verify that
SCADA data
equals field data
(p. 29)
Reprogram
SCADA as
needed (p. 35)
Staffing
Cross-train
staff for PSPS
events (p. 8)
Place response
staff on standby
and establish
chain of
command (p.
15)
Determine
staffing needs
and begin
modified
schedule (p.
19)
Reassess
modified
schedule (p. 24)
Review staff
availability,
rotation and
roles, and
redistribute
workload if
necessary (p. 30)
Slowly return to
normal schedule
and release any
outside staff (p.
36)
Access
Ensure staff
have IDs and
vehicles are
badged (p. 9)
Check facilities
and address
any immediate
access issues
(p. 16)
Verify that
electronic
access control
systems are
working
correctly
without grid
power (p. 19)
Confirm EOC
contact for
access into
wildfire areas
(P 25)
Coordinate with
local EOC if
access is needed
(p. 31)
Verify roads are
clear and return
generators and
other resources
to their storage
locations (p. 36)
Safety
Have a health
and safety
(H&S) Plan
(p. 10)
Brief staff on
H&S Plan (p.
17)
Stage personal
protective
equipment
(PPE) (p. 20)
Conduct safety
briefing each
staff shift change
(p. 26)
Confirm staff
safety and
relieve staff as
needed (p. 31)
Ensure staff
return home
safely (p. 36)
-------
[Utility Name]
PSPS SOP
-------
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction 1
1.0 BLUE-SKY PLANNING 2
1.1 Generators and Backup Power 2
1.2 Fuel 3
1.3 Communication 5
1.4 Partnerships 7
1.5 SCADA 8
1.6 Staffing 8
1.7 Access 9
1.8 Safety 10
2.0 48-HOUR PSPS NOTIFICATION 11
2.1 Generators and Backup Power 11
2.2 Fuel 11
2.3 Communication 12
2.4 Partnerships 14
2.5 SCADA 14
2.6 Staffing 15
2.7 Access 16
2.8 Safety 17
3.0 ZERO HOUR POWER OUT 18
3.1 Generators and Backup Power 18
3.2 Fuel 18
3.3 Communication 18
3.4 Partnerships 19
3.5 SCADA 19
3.6 Staffing 19
3.7 Access 19
3.6 Safety 20
4.0 24 HOURS WITHOUT POWER ..21
4.1 Generators and Backup Power 21
4.2 Fuel 21
-------
4.3 Communication[[[22
4.4 Partnerships ................................................23
4.5 SCADA ...........24
4.6 Staffing [[[24
4.7 Access 25
4.8 Safety[[[26
5.0 CONTINUED POWER OUTAGE...................................... 27
5.1 Generators and Backup Power 27
5.2 Fuel 27
-------
Introduction
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) developed this Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) template to assist
California drinking water and wastewater utilities to better plan, prepare, respond, and recover from a Public Safety Power
Shutoff (PSPS) event triggered by weather and environmental conditions that may lead to wildfire. The template covers
the following phases of a PSPS event:
• Blue Sky Planning
• 48-Hour PSPS Notification
• Zero Hour Power Out
• 24 Hours Without Power
• Continued Power Outage
• PSPS Recovery
Each phase covers the following topics: generators and backup power, fuel, communication, partnerships, SCADA,
staffing, access, and safety. Communication has been further divided into the subtopics of internal (water utility staff),
partner (agencies and organizations that provide support to a water utility during a PSPS event), and external (customers
and media) communications.
This template is considered a starting point for developing a customized, water utility specific PSPS SOP. The information
and action items listed in the SOP were gathered from two PSPS exercises conducted by EPA in Santa Rosa and
Vacaville. Participants included small to large water utilities who had experienced PSPS events, as well as
representatives from both Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) and Southern California Edison (SCE) electric
utilities. During the exercises, participants walked through their planning, response, and recovery actions to mitigate
PSPS events and shared lessons learned, best practices, and actions they would do differently next time. These
discussions and the resulting recorded notes form the basis for this SOP template. Water utilities should feel free to add
and delete items from this template to better suit their unique situations and needs.
Additionally, the template also assumes that most utilities rely on fossil fuel generators to provide backup electrical power.
However, utilities may wish to explore alternative options for backup power such as batteries or microgrids to reduce
reliance on the delivery of fuel during a PSPS or other emergencies. For example, California's Self-Generation Incentive
Program (SGIP) offers rebates for installing energy storage technology at "critical facilities" that support community
resilience in the event of a PSPS or wildfire. Funding of more than $1 billion is available through 2024 and communities in
high fire-threat areas or communities that have experienced two or more utility PSPS events are prioritized.
In developing this template, EPA and exercise participants noted that certain items applied universally to all aspects of
PSPS planning, preparation, response, and recovery. These items are listed both within the Blue-Sky phase and the
Power Restored phase so as not to be repeated under every phase/topic.
Page 1 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
1.0 BLUE-SKY PLANNING
This is the phase prior to receiving a PSPS notification from your electrical utility. Below are two items that are
overarching throughout the multiple topics in this phase.
Checklist
Notes
~ Join the California Water and Wastewater Agency
Response Network (CalWARN).
Join at http://www.calwarn.ora/.
~ Keep all emergency contact information up to date.
~ Review resources in Appendix B.
EPA's Wildfire and Power Outage Incident Action
Checklists are among the resources that can help
utilities prepare for PSPS events.
1.1 Generators and Backup Power
Checklist
Notes
~ Determine generator needs and sizes.
• For certain critical facilities, two generators in
parallel may be needed. When one is down for
maintenance, the other can be running.
• Consider usina the U. S. Armv Corps of Enaineers
(USACE) Emeraencv Power Facility Assessment
Tool.
• Consider usina EPA's Power Resilience Guide.
• EPA's Power Outaae Incident Action Checklist is
another good resource.
~ Develop a cycling schedule as required.
~ Establish a contract with a rental firm if you do not own a
generator.
• Determine the rental company's generator
availability.
• Incorporate emergency prioritization language for
your utility into the contract, if possible.
~ Conduct annual hands-on training for generator
installation and use for employees.
Include simulating a power shutoff so operators know
what to reset once the power comes back on.
~ Test and maintain both stationary and portable
generators under load.
Do this often, either monthly or quarterly, and follow
the manufacturer's maintainence recommendations.
~ Create a written SOP or instructions for generator
operation.
Laminate the SOP or instructions and place with the
generator. Operators should be trained, but they may
need reminders during stressful times.
~ Make sure transfer switches are installed. This is important for critical facilities if you intend to
use portable generators.
Page 2 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
Checklist
Notes
~ Have a backup/contingency plan for failed generators.
~
Create a resource inventory.
Including purpose, type and location.
~
Maintain related resources and conduct testing and/or
inspections of these resources.
• For example, spare parts such as filters.
• Be aware of any expiration dates related to items
such as maintenance fluids.
~
Know run times for generators to determine fuel needs.
~
Plan to have generators located at or delivered to
communication sites, as appropriate.
For example, telemetry sites.
~
Match generators with pump stations on a spreadsheet.
Match functionality to power.
~
Use stationary generators for supervisory control and
data acquisition (SCADA) at plant and portable
generators for SCADA at remote sites.
~
Assign a staff member or department with specific
generator responsibilities.
Responsibilities include identifying generator needs
(e.g., batteries), performing load testing, maintenance
and repairs.
~
Work with local air district to address air quality issues.
Air quality exceedances may result from running
generators for an extended period.
~
Install solar power for repeaters, if possible.
Be aware that ash can cover solar panels.
~
Prepare for customer complaints.
Customers may complain about generator noise and
exhaust. Whisper generators are an option.
1.2 Fuel
Checklist
Notes
~
Assess fuel needs.
Answering these questions will help determine total
fuel storage need and anticipated burn rate:
• Which physical locations need fuel?
• What is the fuel demand at each location?
• What is the availability of fuel at each location?
• What is the load on the generator?
~
Develop a fuel log.
Include points of contact, fuel polishing and filtering
schedule, run time fuel needs, fuel inventory, and
burn rates.
Page 3 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
Checklist
Notes
~
Sign a fuel supply and delivery agreement with one or
more fuel companies.
Carefully read each agreement to be sure you
understand how the company prioritizes fuel and
deliveries to clients during emergencies.
~
Assess storage of day tanks and supply tanks.
Top off and schedule maintenance for tanks - How
long has the fuel been stored in the tanks?
~
Identify how to replenish fuel supply.
Establish a 'fuel supply' concept of operations and
include as an appendix or annex.
~
Develop list of qualified personnel that can manage fuel
and establish an operations and maintenance (O&M)
schedule.
~
Partner with a fuel vendor or vendor consortium, as well
your local emergency management agency (EMA).
Advance communications and networking are helpful.
Local EM As may also be able to secure fuel.
~
Obtain proper certifications for auxiliary fuel tanks
mounted on pickup trucks.
~
Reserve some fuel for staff transport needs as
appropriate.
Staff who commute may need fuel if local gas
stations close or are inaccessible due to damaged
roads.
~
Plan for backup power for pumps at stationary fuel tanks.
This can be a solar-powered, manual or battery
operated fuel transfer pump.
~
Include fuel handling safety in staff training.
For example, personal protective equipment (PPE),
spill kits and fire extinguishers.
~
Develop generator refueling plan.
Be sure to include a map of access routes for fuel
delivery trucks.
~
Ensure stored fuel is of high quality and usable.
• Recycle and change fuel as necessary.
• Consider swapping fuel out on an annual basis or
when polishing no longer works.
~
Add fuel stabilizer for gas and/or diesel operated
generators.
Page 4 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
1.3 Communication
1.3.1 Internal
Checklist
Notes
~ Develop a call tree or staff reverse 911 list for your utility
as appropriate.
• An example contact table is located in Appendix A.
• Plan for "heads-up" or advance warning
communication - a PSPS notice for your staff.
~ Confirm internal points of contact are up to date.
For example, utility staff, field staff and administrators.
~ Know where to go for situational information.
For example, Department Operations Center (DOC)
briefings, email lists, or shift briefings.
~ Create an inventory of your communication equipment.
See Appendix A for an example communication
equipment inventory.
~ Confirm that your online system boundary map is
accurate and up to date.
This allows you to match your water system
boundaries with the PSPS system boundary map to
see which water facilities may be impacted. The
Division of Drinking Water (DDW), State Water
Resources Control Board has provided drinking water
system service area boundary map at
https://gispublic.waterboards.ca.gov/portal/home/it
em.html?id=fbba842bfl34497c9d611ad506ec48cc#o
verview.
~ Conduct radio checks in vehicles to confirm that radios
are charged.
• Program channels and train staff on how to use
them.
• Develop a protocol.
~ Obtain long lasting batteries for communications
equipment and make sure the batteries are maintained.
Batteries sitting in chargers for prolonged amounts of
time may have short life spans in the Held.
~ Plan for staff communication during a loss of cell phone
service.
Two-way radios? Satellite phones? Will texting go
through? What is the failsafe plan (e.g., meet-up
point)?
1.3.2 Partners
Checklist
Notes
~ Develop an SOP describing roles and responsibilities for
communicating with partners.
Conduct inter-agency trainings, meetings, and
workshops.
Page 5 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
Checklist
Notes
~ Confirm external points of contact are up to date. For example, emergency contacts, electric utility
representatives, state - Division of Drinking Water
(DDW), county - Office of Emergency Services
(OES), suppliers/service providers, fuel, mutual aid-
CalWARN.
~
Identify the appropriate people to contact at the city EOC.
Know who is on what shift and know how to
communicate with them (e.g., two-way radio, correct
phone number).
~
Share communication ideas and plans with other
agencies to find out what they are doing and learn from
them.
Implement Message Mapping and Crisis and
Emergency Risk Communications training and
protocols.
~
Plan on updating neighboring counties regarding your
status in case you cannot share information with the
EOC.
Neighboring counties can share this information on
your behalf.
~
Communicate priority sites to city or county OES for
agency awareness and inventory.
For example, for refueling and power restoration.
~
Keep a critical facility list up to date with your electrical
company.
For example, you may decide to remove assets from
the list that are not currently powered due to long
term maintenance or upgrade. Likewise, you may
need to add a new critical asset that has come on-
line within the last few months.
~
Check with your electrical utility to determine if they are
using fire retardant spray on wooden poles that serve
you.
This may mean your landline and other
communications relying on the poles may be more
resilient.
1.3.3 External
Checklist
Notes
~
Plan for how PSPS and associated public messaging will
be distributed to customers.
• What notification system will you use (e.g., Rapid
Alert Notification System [RANS], "Reverse 911",
hand delivery).
• Prepare public service announcements.
• Use social media for outreach.
• Let people know what they can do and who they
can reach out to during PSPS events.
Page 6 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
1.4 Partnerships
Checklist
Notes
~
Form a relationship with DDW.
DDW can serve as a conduit for information and
resources from other state agencies.
~
Coordinate with county OES/Operational Area.
This will be helpful in acquiring resources such as
shelter, water, fuel, and back-up power.
~
Establish a working relationship with the local and county
emergency management agency. Designate Water
Sector Specific Position (WSSP), if possible.
Stay in touch with them throughout incident. They can
help connect you with needed resources.
~
Confirm county EOC contacts and conduct in-person
meetings with them.
Determine how you will coordinate during a PSPS.
~
Form relationships with other water utility organizations.
Consider joining organizations such as a Water and
Wastewater Agency Response Network (WARN) like
CalWARN, Inland Counties Water Association
(ICWA) and Bay Area Emergency and Security
Information Collective (BAESIC). Create your own.
~
Form a partnership with the fire department and law
enforcement, both state and local.
This will help your staff pass safely through
roadblocks and fire-affected areas as needed.
~
Form a relationship and share contact information with
the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection
(CalFire).
• They are a good resource for national weather
outlook/forecasts.
• A state-wide point of contact (POC) is the state
fire marshal!, but most local fire districts have
their own.
~
Form a relationship with your power provider, specifically
your dedicated account representative.
If your utility is small, you may not have a dedicated
account representative.
~
Develop a working relationship with your customers,
especially critical customers.
• This decreases potential confusion about what is or
will be happening.
• Include both wholesale and retail customers.
• Appendix A contains an example critical customers
contact list.
~
Form and maintain relationships with contractors.
• For example, fuel suppliers and generator rentals.
• Have a backup to the backup to the backup.
~
Water districts should form a relationship with the
jurisdictions that they serve.
Some water districts may serve multiple
municipalities.
~
Form a relationship with local hotels.
Staff may need to stay in them during PSPS events.
~
Make connections with local hospitals and other
healthcare facilities.
This relationship should be carefully developed
because they depend on water for life sustaining
activities.
Page 7 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
1.5 SCADA
Checklist
Notes
~
Train operators to run the plant without SCADA.
~
Keep licenses and software up to date.
Maintain copies in an alternate location in case you
need to restore systems or stand up new servers.
~
Acquire access to SCADA via iPads/iPhones.
Be sure to put cybersecurity controls in place if you
will access SCADA over the Internet.
~
Conduct quarterly maintenance and load test batteries
every 90 days.
~
Create a mirrored SCADA system with backup
generators at both sites.
This allows you to have a back-up location for your
SCADA system.
~
Install telephone lines for floats in tanks.
Tank water levels should be tied into the telemetry.
Specifically, to hardline telephone wires because
those do not always go down in a power outage.
~
Have backup power at repeater sites.
For example, propane.
~
Obtain a backup repeater, if possible.
~
Have automatic transfer switches (ATSs) on generators
that power SCADA.
~
Have batteries or backup power (e.g., solar) at remote
sites and at all tank sites.
Make sure they have several days of charge.
~
Acquire solar backup for chemical pumps and analyzers.
Solar may not be 100 percent reliable during fire
events and panels may be damaged by ash.
~
Evaluate tank storage and develop use table.
For example, water burn rate.
1.6 Staffing
Checklist
Notes
~
Conduct training/cross training, dry runs and other
exercises specifically to prepare for PSPS events.
• Consider table top exercises (TTXs) with partners.
• This will allow employees to know how to operate
equipment and coordinate with partners.
~
Develop a business continuity plan that addresses critical
needs and considers alternate ways of doing business.
Include work locations, hours and public reception
areas.
~
Establish a DOC by identifying critical staff and systems.
The DOC functions as an EOC for your utility.
Page 8 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
Checklist
Notes
~
Identify staff limitations and consider contracts with
vendors such as electricians and SCADA operators to fill
any gaps.
Also consider if retired staff may be willing to return
on a temporary basis during a PSPS emergency.
~
Ensure specialized staff and their needs are integrated
into PSPS and Emergency Response Plans (ERPs).
For example, if you need an electrical engineer and
only have access to one, then you need to identify a
backup.
~
Review and update labor contracts, specifically
considering emergency human resources policies.
For example, establish a leave cancellation policy.
~
Confirm that staff and equipment certifications and
licenses are valid and up to date.
~
Know who is available to work overtime and/or in shifts.
~
Adjust staff shifts so that people commute from several
different areas.
This helps to avoid losing an entire shift due to road
closures causing transportation issues.
~
Have a centralized point for your staffing schedule to
know where personnel are located.
~
Forecast overtime hours.
Time tracking will help.
~
Consider increasing staffing levels.
~
Know staff family concerns that may limit availability.
For example, losing childcare services.
~
Prepare for possible lodging for long-term PSPS events.
For example, RVs, trailers, tents, hotels.
~
Create go-bags for staff.
Example items to include in a go-bag include: PPE,
SOPs, maps (local and water system), phone
chargers, radios, Government Emergency
Telecommunications Service (GETS) cards, Wireless
Priority Service (WPS) cards, notepads, clipboards,
pens, personal hygiene, hand sanitizer, protein
bars/snacks, water, extra cash, plastic utensils, extra
uniform.
~
Perform resource typing.
This helps you know what you have and what you
may need to ask for to augment your response.
1.7 Access
Checklist
Notes
~
Confirm staff identification and vehicle badging are
accurate and up to date.
Page 9 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
Checklist
Notes
~ Develop a process for obtaining site access if personnel This could be a signed letter from an elected official
are stopped by law enforcement or fire agencies. or other authority.
~
Deconflict your utility credentials with security controlling
access points (e.g., National Guard).
Emergency management can help with this.
~
Reach out to local jurisdictions to coordinate access.
~
Include access procedures in the Emergency Response
Plan and update as necessary.
~
Get clearance from the EOC to access the water system,
specifically critical assets.
This can be a problem for smaller utilities.
~
Stay up-to-date with facility site maintenance.
For example, clear brush and tree limbs regularly.
~
Communicate access issues to the WSSP, if there is one
in your EOC.
A WSSP may be established at both the local and
higher jurisdictional level EOCs.
~
Consider redundancy.
For example, keys and security code records.
~
Map bulk chemical storage and alternate access routes
to the storage areas.
1.8 Safety
Checklist
Notes
~
Develop a simple PSPS health and safety (H&S) SOP.
If you already have procedures for working around
generators, fuel and electrical systems, refer to those
H&S SOPs.
~
Obtain insurance cards.
~
Maintain, test and train staff on how to use personal
protective equipment and kits.
Exercise with personal protective equipment and kits
at least once quarterly.
~
Make safety part of the utility on-boarding procedures.
Consider developing a safety quick reference guide
for new employees.
Page 10 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
2.0 48-HOUR PSPS NOTIFICATION
This phase begins when the 48-hour notification that a PSPS is going to occur is distributed by electric utilities.
2.1 Generators and Backup Power
Checklist
Notes
~
Review "Blue Sky" plans.
~
Check phase and rotation of generators.
The generator and any motors it powers, should
rotate in the same direction.
~
Verify generator locations.
~
Notify staff to be prepared and assign staff for the
transport, installation and operation of generators.
Schedules may need to be modified.
~
Contact agencies and vendors to confirm availability of
generators.
~
Deploy portable generators with locks.
Prepare contingency equipment and security.
~
Ensure generators are properly grounded.
~
Once the generator is in place, conduct a field test.
Retest the generator under load.
~
Start generators at least one to two hours before the
shut-off and confirm operability and transfer loads.
This will help to prevent issues like water hammer if
the power goes out before your generators are on.
~
Start usage log and establish tracking system for
equipment issues.
~
Know cycle time, recovery time and water use in each
pressure zone.
This is important for wastewater utilities that do not
have backup power to prevent overflowing tanks at lift
stations.
~
Secure electrician availability.
2.2
Fuel
Checklist
Notes
~
Confirm fuel contracts are in place with vendors and/or
suppliers and initiate deliveries as appropriate.
• Stock up and stage fuel, if possible.
• Maximum delivery tank size on a non-placarded
utility vehicle is 119 gallons.
Page 11 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
Checklist
Notes
~
Confirm partnerships with other agencies that could help
to procure fuel.
~
Schedule refill of generators based on the fuel
consumption worksheet (i.e., burn rate).
Review previous PSPS event (or other power outage)
generator burn rates.
~
Confirm site access for fuelers and refuelers.
For example, spare keys and alarms.
~
Perform operational checks of fueling equipment.
~
Perform assessment of critical sites.
Confirm which sites will be prioritized for fuel if fuel
supplies are limited.
~
Top off the fuel system and polish fuel as required.
Fuel system is defined as fuel storage, generators,
and tanks.
~
Increase storage.
• Explore options to rent on-site fuel storage.
• Determine mobility of storage in case you want to
move tanks between locations.
~
Dedicate a centralized fuel delivery point for the
vendor/supplier.
• Use smaller utility trucks to transport fuel within the
property to specific sites.
• Verify utility truck delivery capabilities.
~
Verify transfer pumps have power redundancy.
~
Issue fuel payment methods to staff.
For example, credit cards.
~
Consider what type of fuel your generators need.
For example, natural gas, diesel, or propane.
~
Conserve fuel by connecting a programmable logic
controller (PLC) to your generators.
The generators will only engage when pumps are
about to come on.
2.3
Communication
2.3.1 Internal
Checklist Notes
~ Hold staff refresher trainings on the communication SOP
and review the communication elements in the ERP.
Page 12 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
Checklist
Notes
~
Make sure "backup" communication resources and
procedures are ready and everyone knows what they
are.
Identify a fail safe method and procedure (e.g., meet
at this location at this time) if all forms of normal
communication go down.
~
Initiate the internal communications procedure and call
tree.
Follow incident command system (ICS) structure or
other chain-of-command.
~
Make sure the "administrator of the day" is notified as
well as crew staff (on standby).
~
Perform field communications checks.
~
Distribute handheld and other radio communication
devices as needed.
2.3.2 Partners
Checklist
Notes
~
Confirm external contacts are correct and up to date.
For example, CalWARN, local county OES, EOC,
public safety, fire and police/dispatch, fuel
companies, DDW, public information officers (PIOs)
and customers.
2.3.3 External
Checklist
Notes
~
Communicate with customers to let them know what is
happening, what may happen and, if necessary, to plan
accordingly and conserve.
Could use systems like Nixie, NextDoor, social
media, AlertSolano, websites, and emails.
~
Prepare boil water notices and "do not drink" notices and
have DDW review as necessary.
~
Prepare consistent messaging.
• Develop scripts for staff answering phones,
communication staff, and field staff.
• Consider Message Mapping, and Crisis and
Emergency Risk Communication (CERC)
protocols.
Page 13 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
2.4 Partnerships
Checklist
Notes
~
Confirm the electric utility has a list of your critical facility
locations.
~
Determine if the county EOC is activated and if there is a
water desk/WSSP.
~
Contact rental companies/vendors to reserve fuel,
generators and other resources.
~
Review mutual aid and assistance agreements.
~
Inform partners, including CalWARN, that assistance
may be needed and verify availability of resources.
Resource requests could include replacement or
additional personnel, equipment or supplies, such as
fuel.
~
Notify high volume customers to conserve water.
High-volume customers include irrigation districts.
~
Coordinate with sewer system partners regarding water
conservation notices.
Conservation helps to reduce the load on PSPS-
challenged sewer systems and helps avoid sewer
spills. A consistent conservation message from both
utilities will be more effective.
~
Obtain additional security guards, if needed.
Ask law enforcement if they can provide additional
security or increase frequency of patrols.
~
Make arrangements with food establishments and
appoint a designated food runner.
For example, caterers, restaurants (within and
outside impacted area).
2.5
SCADA
Checklist
Notes
~
Backup data and print out key information, action lists
and information.
~
Record or take a screenshot of set points for any
equipment that may have power interruptions during the
transfer between grid and backup power and vice versa.
~
Test all alarms and make sure set points are correct.
For example, generator and wet well level.
~
Alter set points for a larger operating range.
~
Prioritize powering a portion of SCADA system that must
be operational.
Page 14 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
Checklist
Notes
~
Review SOPs to refresh staff on how to manually operate
pumps.
~
Confirm that SCADA support vendor information and
contacts are up to date.
~
Put instrument technician on standby.
~
Switch all but one pump to manual ("singling up").
When backup power goes on, not all the pumps turn
back on and you avoid overloading your generator.
~
Ensure there is "defensible space" clear of brush and
debris around any repeater.
~
Conduct a pre- and post-inspection of the facility,
including PLCs.
• Know system settings before the PSPS and after;
make sure they are the same.
• If there was a power surge, make sure
electronics are working correctly.
~
Expect minimal SCADA communication while on
generator power.
2.6 Staffing
Checklist
Notes
~
Place your emergency response staff on stand-by and
establish chain of command.
~
Determine availability of staff for 24/7 coverage.
• Roles and responsibilities may have to be modified.
• Notify all staff of these modifications.
• Identify employees who live in potentially PSPS
affected areas.
~
Conduct an "all hands" coordination meeting to explain
potential new job duties and expectations.
• Provide consistent messaging.
• Inform staff if there are any expected changes in
operation, assignments, contacts or schedules.
~
Plan to activate your DOC.
~
Encourage staff to prepare themselves, their families and
their homes for a PSPS event.
~
Prepare for staff deployment by "setting up and stocking
up".
For example, prepare lodging, food, water and
sleeping facilities.
Page 15 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
Checklist
Notes
~
Increase on-call staffing, especially for specialized crews,
such as generator set-up crews.
~
Keep track of receipts and overtime hours.
Keep accurate cost and time records.
Reimbursement may be available later, esepcially if a
disaster is declared by state or federal government.
~
Consider giving more staff purchasing capability.
Potentially increase the limits on purchase order
authorizations and agency credit cards.
~
Conduct "just in time" training/refreshers as needed.
For example, on generator hookup.
2.7
Access
Checklist
Notes
~
Check facility sites and address any immediate access
issues.
For example, leaves, branches and potholes.
~
Have a back-up plan if roads become inaccessible.
• How will staff reach the facility if there is limited to
no access?
• Identify dedicated tree personnel for clearing
downed trees.
~
Verify staff and vehicles have proper credentials.
~
Identify contacts within the EOC for this event, such as
the transportation contact.
It is likely that your local EOC is at least partially
activated.
~
Identify staff access roles and their contact information.
~
Identify critical water facilities on a map. Use GIS layers
to support.
For example, critical level 1 /level 2 or high, medium
and low.
~
Contact your electric utility for the exact power shut off
locations and deploy staff and resources accordingly.
Consider facility criticality. If possible, use hydraulic
modeling and analysis to assess changes in service
levels corresponding to the shutdown plan. Also,
deploying staff early will help to avoid any future
access issues that may arise post-PSPS.
~
Consider and weigh factors for access needs.
For example, weather vs. deployment time vs. critical
facility vs. other factors.
~
Start monitoring for access changes.
For example, road closures due to wildfire spread or
pattern.
Page 16 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
2.8 Safety
Checklist
Notes
~
Review health and safety plans and send out reminders
to staff.
Conduct "walk-throughs" regarding high voltage/arc
flash safety training.
~
Review and implement safety SOPs as appropriate.
~
Review the ERP, including its contact list.
~
Coordinate regular safety meetings.
This could be done through the ICS planning
process.
~
Identify what personal protective equipment (PPE) and
other equipment are needed and pre-stage equipment.
Confirm you have enough PPE and it is all up to date.
Page 17 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
3.0 ZERO HOUR POWER OUT
This phase occurs as soon as the PSPS is initiated and grid power is shut off.
3.1 Generators and Backup Power
Checklist Notes
~ Verify that generators have initiated and are running
correctly.
~ Confirm that pumps have pressure.
3.2 Fuel
Checklist
Notes
~ Manually check levels of fuel storage.
3.3 Communication
3.3.1 Internal
Checklist
Notes
~ Verify two-way radios are operating correctly.
~ Confirm batteries are working in communication devices.
~ Complete a general check of communication system(s).
Even if you checked at the 48-hour PSPS notification
while the power was still on, some systems may not
be working as expected on back-up power.
3.3.2 Partners
Checklist
Notes
~ Perform a communication check.
Although you verified contact information earlier,
means of communication may have changed since
the power shut off.
Page 18 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
3.3.3 External
Checklist
Notes
~ Notify customers that the utility is operating on backup
power due to the PSPS.
3.4 Partnerships
Checklist
Notes
~ Complete a general check of partner communication
systems.
• Even if you checked at the 48-hour PSPS
notification while the power was still on, some
systems may not be working as expected on
back-up power.
~ Verify that there are no discrepancies within your electric
utility's on-line information portal.
• For example, the portal incorrectly indicates that
your facility has grid power.
• If there is a discrepancy, reach out to your
electric utility.
3.5 SCADA
Checklist
Notes
~ Attend to all active SCADA alarms.
• Verify that everything is working as it should.
• Reset SCADA alarms.
3.6 Staffing
Checklist
Notes
~ Determine staffing needs and begin modified schedule.
~ Identify employees that are living in areas affected by the
PSPS and adjust schedule, if needed.
3.7 Access
Checklist
Notes
~ Verify that electronic access control systems are working
correctly without grid power.
For example, make sure key cards are still working
and you can get in/out.
Page 19 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
3.6 Safety
Checklist Notes
~ Confirm PRE is in place.
~ Verify everyone understands proper SOPs for safety.
Page 20 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
4.0 24 HOURS WITHOUT POWER
This phase is one day into the PSPS.
4.1 Generators and Backup Power
Checklist
Notes
~
Take a break and evaluate efficacy of blue-sky planning.
Validate prior assumptions and update as needed.
~
Assess and relocate resources as needed and prioritize
generators.
~
Have a mechanic check and perform maintenance.
For example, gauge reading, lubricants and leaks.
~
Shut generators down to check fluid levels and oil.
Adjust as needed.
~
Maintain communication with the DOC, EOC, and utility
partners to establish an estimated time for power
restoration.
This will give you an idea of how long the generators
will need to be in operation.
~
Continue to update the generator tracking log.
Verify the generators are within operating parameters
and verify run times and burn rates.
~
Check inventory to see what critical resources are
running low.
• Make sure that you have critical spare parts on
hand.
• Order resources that are running low.
~
Continue checking access to and the security of
generators.
~
Be prepared to relocate equipment if additional problems
arise.
For example, wildfire encroachment, main break and
other similar incidents.
4.2
Fuel
Checklist
Notes
~
Monitor burn rate and adjust fuel consumption/run time
estimates accordingly.
~
Keep track of the status of fuel use and reserve fuel
storage as PSPS proceeds.
~
Keep fuel storage full and increase storage capacity as
needed.
Consider capacity - the larger the generator, the more
fuel used.
~
Establish multiple vendors for fuel.
• Establish redundancy for fuel delivery.
• For example, use both an in-house tanker and
outside contractor to top off tanks.
Page 21 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
Checklist
Notes
~
Remember vehicles also need fuel.
There is a crossover of fuel types between transport
vehicles and generators.
~
Use networks to help obtain fuel.
For example, OES, other agencies and utilities.
~
Remotely monitor fuel for certain equipment.
~
If the power outage is widespread, consider fuel supplies
from further away.
• Is the duration of the outage known?
• How large is the outage?
~
Prioritize fuel to key locations and adjust as needed with
updated information.
~
Use PLC communications to help you with power and,
therefore, fuel management.
Remember, PLC programs can be lost when the
power goes out, especially if you had not already
transitioned to backup power prior to the outage.
~
Turn off all non-essential functions and balance
equipment use to conserve fuel.
For example, do not use all generators and/or
vehicles at once.
~
Contact your fuel supplier to recheck fuel availability.
Prepare to enact a fuel contingency plan if the
supplier is running low or cannot reach you due to
compromised roads.
4.3
Communication
4.3.1 Internal
Checklist
Notes
~
Set up charging stations for cell phone use.
You can also use the cigarette lighter port in vehicles,
USB ports, or power banks.
~
Determine a place for staff to congregate and share
information.
• This could be the centralized fuel filling stations
and/or charging stations.
• Make sure the information being shared is correct.
Amplify by hanging flyers.
~
Keep upper management and your Board informed.
~
Use battery demand and drain estimates to know when
to switch batteries in chargeable devices like handheld
radios.
Page 22 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
Checklist
Notes
~ Assess communications to determine if there are any
issues that could create problems as the event goes on.
Fix the identified issues.
4.3.2 Partners
Checklist
Notes
~ Track status and events and obtain real time information
from the electric utility and local/county EOC.
Track status using programs like WebEOC and/or
Slack.
~ Relay information and needs to offices with electricity.
As a form of backup communication.
~ Provide updates on your needs to vendors.
4.3.3 External
Checklist
Notes
~ Continue consistent messaging and transparency with
customers.
Send messages with updates via social media,
websites, web alerts and hand delivery.
~ Establish PIO as the point of contact for the media.
~ Ask POCs within communities to inform neighbors who
may not have access to electronic or digital
communications.
If your community has a Community Emergency
Response Team (CERT) you may be able to
leverage that resource.
~ Issue water-use advisories as needed and request that
customers conserve water.
Post advisories at your office entrances and at fuel
filling stations and/or charging stations.
4.4 Partnerships
Checklist
Notes
~ Inform the county OES, DDW, and General
Manager/Administrator of your utility's operational status.
~ Request your electrical power provider notify you of grid
re-energization.
This enhances staff safety, equipment protection, and
resource coordination.
~ If needed, open emergency interconnections with
neighboring water systems.
Page 23 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
Checklist
Notes
~ Coordinate with the fire department to assess their water
needs and establish a staging area for utitlity equipment,
as needed.
If possible, conduct hydraulic modeling and analysis
with updated status to identify potential areas of
service risk.
~ Coordinate with regulatory agencies regarding
requirements, as needed.
For example, transporting fuel and running
generators for long periods.
~ Reach out to other water utilities to see if they need help.
Only if your utility is managing the PSPS event and
has available resources.
~ Continue checking-in with other partner agencies.
4.5 SCADA
Checklist
Notes
~ Evaluate water usage during the previous 24 hours to
adjust set levels to reflect changes in water usage.
Update hydraulic models.
~ Reach out to ham radio operators to coordinate
frequency assignments and usage.
SCADA operates on same frequency as ham radio.
~ Consider if you need to take water quality samples to
validate or replace on-line sensors in the distribution
system.
4.6 Staffing
Checklist
Notes
~ Reassess modified schedules.
• Modify schedules as needed and notify employees
of any changes.
~ Activate your DOC.
~ Consider staggering specialized staff and/or adding
support staff through CalWARN or the county, or
establish other ways to procure volunteers.
• You may be able to procure volunteers through
CERTs.
• Call in retired staff if they have indicated a
willingness to help during a PSPS emergency.
~ Inform staff if there are any expected changes in
operations, assignments, contacts, or schedules.
~ Assign staff to do rounds of critical assets.
For example, check generator conditions.
Page 24 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
Checklist
Notes
~
Give GETS and WPS cards to all key administration and
utility staff.
GETS and WPS are provided by the Department of
Homeland Security. Information can be found at
httDs://www.cisa.aov/aovernment-emeraencv-
telecommunications-service-aets.
~
Confirm staff have Emergency Service ID cards or
authorization letters to pass through roadblocks.
~
Resupply staff with food, water, and other necessary
supplies.
~
Understand employees' personal needs and/or initiate
family plans.
~
Facilitate housing for extended commuters, as needed.
~
Assess staffing and equipment deployments (24-hour
staffing).
4.7
Access
Checklist
Notes
~
Confirm the proper contacts at the EOC for law
enforcement or others who may be controlling access.
The county EOC is assumed to be open.
~
Confirm again that staff and vehicles have credentials.
Access is easier with a company truck.
~
If trees are down, dispatch pre-staged personnel to clear
roads and around assets.
Dispatch personnel in teams of two and track their
locations.
~
If acess to critical sites is compromised, find solutions, as
needed.
For example, use bolt cutters or locate master key.
~
Confirm access for the delivery of food for staff.
~
Monitor for road closures.
• Have designated staff monitoring road closures.
• Get status update from the county, California
Department of Transportation (CalTrans), or other
local authority.
• Use routing software (e.g., Waze) on cellphones for
drivers.
~
Confirm accessibility is maintained.
This is especially important in order to move fuel
storage tanks.
~
Confirm access procedures with local law enforcement
for system components behind safety roadblocks.
Page 25 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
4.8 Safety
Checklist Notes
~
Ensure safety is discussed during staff briefing at shift
change.
~
Verify shipment and delivery time of safety supplies and
PRE (if ordered).
~
Maintain nighttime illumination.
Page 26 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
5.0 CONTINUED POWER OUTAGE
This phase is multiple days into the PSPS.
5.1 Generators and Backup Power
Checklist
Notes
~
Have a technician check all generators.
~
Power down generators as needed to change fluids and
filters and perform other maintenance.
Coordinate with personnel to ensure shutdown
window will not affect powered equipment.
~
Rotate portable generators around the system, as
required.
Especially if not all sites can have a dedicated
generator.
~
Confirm that generators still need to be running.
Turn off those that do not.
~
Verify security of and access to generators.
~
Implement protective measures for resources that cannot
be relocated.
~
Be prepared to implement resource prioritization.
~
Be prepared to implement temporary contingency plans
and long-term contingency plans.
Use hydraulic modeling and analysis to identify
potential risk areas.
~
Verify backup and contingency equipment is operating as
planned.
~
Determine, in consultation with California Air Resources
Board, how to report generators that will exceed their
operating hours under air quality standards.
~
Provide status update to the DOC on each of the
generator assets.
~
Enact procedure for shutting generators down.
Plan the order or sequence in which generators will
be powered down.
5.2
Fuel
Checklist
Notes
~
Check the fuel deliveries schedule and make sure fuel is
still available.
Keep in mind that fuel company staff may need relief,
vendors may become unreliable, and others may
have priority over you (e.g., Calfire).
~
Use the WSSP at county EOC to help order fuel.
Page 27 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
Checklist
Notes
~
Recheck burn rates and adjust as needed.
~
Coordinate with external contractors for maintenance of
on-site fuel systems as required.
~
Ask for waivers from state regulators (e.g., CalTRANS) in
terms of fuel transport and driver hours.
~
Increase on site fuel storage again.
For example, use portable tanks.
~
Retrieve gas and diesel from gas stations.
This might make fuel delivery more reliable, but may
require multiple trips to fill up one generator.
~
Identify problems that were missed earlier and adjust
accordingly, so that if the power outage continues,
surprises are minimized.
At 48 hours in, there will be a sense of how things are
going.
~
Be sure to check in with contractors and vendors, even
those you may not have used for this event.
Maintaining relationships with all contractors and
vendors throughout the PSPS event is important.
5.3 Communication
5.3.1 Internal
Checklist Notes
~ Make note of how communications are working to
discuss later when PSPS is over.
~ Continue to keep upper management and your Board
informed.
5.3.2 Partners
Checklist Notes
~ Maintain communication methods and resources. As the power outage goes on, batteries may need to
be recharged and cell towers may be down.
Page 28 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
5.3.3 External
Checklist
Notes
~
Communicate with the public and provide updates
through the PIO, social media, and/or local radio.
Make sure the information is correct and consistent.
~
Change water use advisory notices, as appropriate.
5.4 Partnerships
Checklist
Notes
~
Ensure that you are updating and receiving information
from CalWARN, CalOES, and your local EOC (critical for
access).
For example, this could include the status of an
Emergency Declaration.
~
Notify the public that it is very important to continue to
conserve water.
Customers and businesses.
~
Contact DDW for the eventual lifting of boil water notices
and/or do not drink notices.
~
Reach out to neighboring water utilities to share/leverage
resources and technical expertise.
~
Contact the WSSP or local EOC to access credible
information on the status of re-energization by electric
utilities.
~
Contact neighborhood groups (e.g., CERT) for
assistance in addressing atypical water needs.
For example, water for livestock.
~
Continue communicating with partner agencies, vendors
and contractors.
5.5
SCADA
Checklist
Notes
~
Continue to verify that SCADA data equals field data.
You do not want to miss any unexpected trends.
~
Monitor stand-by power supporting SCADA.
Such as checking fuel levels.
~
Check for communication failures.
~
Check solar panels to make sure they are not covered in
ash.
Page 29 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
Checklist
Notes
~ Check batteries powering PLCs.
~
Use higher capacity batteries or smaller generators.
If not already planned for during "Blue Sky" phase.
~
Monitor for grid power coming back online.
~
Verify that any cellular based (backup) alarm systems are
still operational.
Cell towers may no longer be powered.
~
Prepare to implement contingency plans for damaged or
inoperable SCADA equipment.
5.6 Staffing
Checklist
Notes
~
Reassess availability of staff, the staff rotation, staffing
roles and distributed workload.
• Readjust as needed.
• Remember to make use of CalWARN and other
mutual aid and assistance agreements.
• If SCADA operations cannot be maintained there
will be a need for more staff for manual operations.
~
Conduct staff wellness checks and allow for rest.
• Staff may be exhausted at this point.
• Measure fatigue and follow Incident Command
System rules for shift length at a minimum.
• Consider a work/rest regimen (e.g., rotated day
off).
~
Consider normal duties for Emergency Operations Team
(EOT) staff and/or rotate out DOC staff.
This allows staff who have been working under
stressful field conditions to rotate with better-rested
staff who have been performing in desk positions.
~
Replenish supplies for crews and staff.
For example, showers, food, water and relief.
~
Consider staffs personal needs and, if possible, help with
staff personal logistics.
For example, daycare and senior care.
~
Keep staff informed, involved, and acknowledge
accomplishments by providing consistent updates and
holding shift meetings.
Communicate the need to drop the "small stuff" and
prioritize business function.
~
Start paying for staff overtime, as appropriate.
Coordination with HR or your payroll vendor is
important.
~
Be sure there is a crew to maintain the facilities in the
office.
~
Work from home if possible.
This relieves some of the on-site logistical burdens.
Page 30 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
Checklist
Notes
~ Consider staffing for recovery when power is restored.
~ Address bargaining unit issues.
~ Be aware of and provide site security.
Others may be looking for the same resources you
have.
5.7 Access
Checklist
Notes
~ Coordinate with the local EOC if access is needed.
Depending on the status of the fire, access may be
restricted to life safety and other critical functions,
and entry and exit through certain areas may require
a law enforcement or fire escort.
~ Be creative and adaptable - think outside the box.
• Can customers with a line of sight of critical assets
provide you with information, such as observations
of impacts?
• Are there community web cams that can be
accessed to observe facilities?
~ Ensure your recovery plan for backup power assets
considers access issues.
5.8 Safety
Checklist
Notes
~ Check operators' safety and ensure staff rotation is
occurring as planned.
~ Confirm generators are running safely.
~ Check persona! protective equipment inventory and order
more as needed.
Page 31 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
6.0 PSPS RECOVERY
This is the phase once the PSPS has ended and power has been restored. Below are four items that are overarching
throughout the multiple topics in this phase.
Checklist Notes
~
Conduct an After-Action Review following every PSPS
event.
This is a structured review or de-brief process for
analyzing what happened, why it happened, what
went well and what did not and how things can be
done better in the future.
~
Develop an After-Action Report and Improvement Plan
based on the results of the After-Action Review.
~
Ensure that action items in the Improvement Plan are
implemented.
~
Send thank-you notes or hold appreciation gatherings for
staff and partners who assisted you during the PSPS
event.
6.1
Generators and Backup Power
Checklist
Notes
~
Identify staff needed for demobilization and start
demobilizing generator resources.
~
Confirm with your electric power provider that the PSPS
has concluded and all phases of power restored.
~
Manually switch generators off and go back to grid power
- in a safe manner and in a safe condition.
~
Return portable generators to their storage areas or to
their respective rental agencies.
You may wish to keep some generators in place for
an extra amount of time just in case grid power goes
out again unexpectedly.
~
Determine if generators should be left in place if another
PSPS may occur in the near term.
Check with your electrical utility.
~
Have a technician conduct an inspection to evaluate
generator operability and condition, and begin repair and
rehabilitation of generators, if needed.
For example, cable repairs.
~
Change oil and diesel exhaust fluid (DEF).
~
Address O&M omitted during the PSPS event.
Page 32 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
Checklist
Notes
~ Resupply spare parts and restock critical supplies.
~
Complete and close out generator logbooks from the
PSPS event.
~
Verify that fixed installation generators have transferred
back to grid power.
~
Address permitting issues with the California Air
Resources Board (CARB), if any.
~
Assess location of backup power.
• Should back-up power resources be staged
differently before the next PSPS?
• Evaluate if sites requiring back-up power should be
better prepared to accept it.
~
Establish back-up power that does not need fuel, where
possible.
• For example, solar and battery power.
• This would be helpful especially at repeater sites.
~
Consider dual fuel generators.
• For example, diesel and natural gas.
• This would maximize flexibility and redundancy.
~
Assess need to purchase more generators and fuel
storage.
• For example, portable storage tanks.
6.2
Fuel
Checklist
Notes
~
Polish remaining fuel in storage.
~
Sample for fuel quality.
~
Remove fuel from rented generators before returning
them.
~
Refuel and top off all utility-owned generators.
~
Sign contracts in advance of the next PSPS.
Fuel suppliers are first come, first served.
~
Reanalyze and update fuel burn rates for next PSPS.
Assess fuel records to prepare for next PSPS
(estimated burn rates were most likely different from
actual).
~
Assess all equipment and stock up on spare parts (e.g.,
filters, additives) for fuel storage.
Page 33 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
Checklist
Notes
~ Communicate with fuel companies and discuss
procedural changes, if needed.
~ Address any O&M missed during the PSPS.
6.3 Communication
6.3.1 Internal
Checklist
Notes
~ Inform staff that grid power has been restored.
6.3.2 Partners
Checklist
Notes
~ Inform partners that power has been restored at your
utility.
~ Continue communicating with vendors to prepare for next
PSPS event.
~ Discuss communication improvements with your electric
utility.
6.3.3 External
Checklist
Notes
~ Provide updates to customers (plan community outreach
For example, status of water conservation notices
events/newsletters).
and water use advisories; explain again why PSPS
events happen; provide advice to flush (especially
refrigerator) home plumbing as needed.
Page 34 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
6.4 Partnerships
Checklist
Notes
~
Determine continuing mutual aid needs, manage the
mutual aid paperwork, and settle accounts with vendors.
~
Identify any additional mutual aid agreements that should
be entered into as revealed by the PSPS event.
~
Ask for feedback from impacted high volume customers
and work to resolve any issues before the next PSPS
event.
~
Reach out to large users to help minimize your start up
impacts.
~
Reach out to DDW and resolve boil water notices and/or
other issues as normal operations resume.
~
Coordinate with agencies, rental companies, and
contractors to return supplies and resources.
~
Reach out to other agencies to see if they need any help.
6.5
SCADA
Checklist
Notes
~
Reprogram SCADA components as needed.
Recalibrate hydraulic models as necessary.
~
Continue verifying that SCADA data equals field data.
~
Create a record log or summary of the event.
~
Address any O&M omitted during the PSPS event.
~
Clear any remaining alarms.
~
Double-check all setpoints, reset as necessary and verify
that they are working.
~
Clean solar panels as needed.
~
Test and/or replace back-up batteries.
Page 35 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
5.6 Staffing
Checklist
Notes
~
Slowly return to normal schedule and release external
staff from CalWARN or other mutual aid and assistance
organizations.
• Continue work/rest cycle and assess staffing
levels.
~
Assess fatigue and morale issues and watch for adverse
impacts to personnel over the long term.
Provide counseling to impacted staff (PTSD may be
an issue).
~
Identify staff willing to collect logged information from
operations staff for reporting, recovery and lessons
learned.
~
Collect receipts, staffing information, timecards
(especially overtime) and other personal information for
finance.
This information may also be needed for the Federal
Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Public
Assistance process, if initiated.
~
Send consultants/contractors home upon stabilization.
~
Deactivate the DOC once normal operations resume.
6.7
Access
Checklist
Notes
~
Verify roads are open and bring generators and other
temporarily staged resources back to their storage
locations.
If your electric power provider advises that another
PSPS may occur in the near term, consider keeping
some of the equipment in place, but continue to
monitor it to make sure it is secured.
~
Consider adding security to generators during the
recovery phase.
Generators may be visible to the general public when
access restrictions are lifted.
6.8 Safety
Checklist
Notes
~
Ensure staff make it home safely.
Provide transportation, if necessary.
~
Review normal operating procedures.
Enhance awareness of any lingering safety
conditions and reinstitute normal safety measures.
~
Restock PPE.
Page 36 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
APPENDIX A - CONTACTS
Internal Communication
List ail utility emergency response team members, their response roles, titles and contact information.
Contact List
Name Role/Title Phone Alternate Phone Email
Page 37 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
External Response Partner Communication
List all external response partners, their response roles or positions as well as contact information. Conduct periodic
communications checks with partners to validate channels and to update contact information.
External Response Partner Contact List
Organization or Point Person ... . _,u. r- ^
^ a . . .. ... Phone Alternate Phone Email or Website
Department Name or Position
Local Partners
County Emergency
Management/E 0 C
911
Police
Fire/HazMat
LEPC
Elected officials
Wastewater utility
Water utility
Power utility
Health department
Contractor/vendor
Mutual aid and
assistance
Other
State Partners
Primacy agency
Health department
Police
WARN
Laboratories
Other
Federal Partners
EPA regional office
USACE
FEMA
DHS
Other
Page 38 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
Critical Customer Communication
List critical customers below that should be given priority notification due to their reliance on the water supply and
significance to the community (e.g., public health, firefighting, large commercial operations), or because they may serve
customers considered to be sensitive sub-populations.
Critical Customer Contact List
Organization or
Department
Point Person
Name or
Position
Contact
Instructions
Phone
Alternate
Phone
Email or Website
Wholesale
customer
Senior living
center
Nursing home
Hospital
Dialysis clinic
Hotel
Transportation
center
School
University
Daycare center
Factory
Government
building
Large water user
Other
Communication Equipment Inventory
Inventory your utility's communication equipment below.
Communication Equipment
Type Assigned to Location Number/Frequency/Channel
Page 39 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
APPENDIX B - RESOURCES
California's Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP)
https://www.cpuc.ca.qov/sqipinfo/
Offers rebates for installing energy storage technology at "critical facilities" that support community resilience in the event
of a PSPS or wildfire. Funding of more than $1 billion is available through 2024 and communities in high fire-threat areas
or that have experienced two or more utility PSPS events are prioritized.
California Water and Wastewater Agency Response Network (CalWARN)
htt p ://www. ca Iwa rn. o rq/
Supports and promotes statewide emergency preparedness, disaster response and mutual assistance processes for
public and private water and wastewater utilities. The new CalWARN Web Portal expands a signatory utility's ability to
achieve agency, regional and state preparedness by providing new tools and proven practices that can enhance
readiness.
California Drinking Water System Area Boundaries
https ://qispublic.waterboards.ca.qov/porta l/home/item. html?id=fbba842bf134497c9d611ad506ec48cc#overview
Service area boundaries of drinking water service providers, as verified by the Division of Drinking Water, State Water
Resources Control Board. Please note that the service areas may change without notice as the data set is dynamic and
updated on an on-going basis.
EPA Incident Action Checklist - Power Outage
https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2019-11 /documents/191126-incidentactionchecklist-po-form 508c.pdf
This checklist provides information with actions utilities can take to prepare, respond and recover from a power outage.
EPA Incident Action Checklist - Wildfire
https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2015-06/documents/wildfire.pdf
This checklist provides information with actions utilities can take to prepare, respond and recover from a wildfire.
EPA Power Resilience Guide for Water and Wastewater Utilities
https://www.epa.qov/sites/production/files/2016-03/documents/160212-powerresiliencequide508.pdf
This guide includes information from water industry professionals on how to increase power resilience at drinking water
and wastewater utilities.
Page 40 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
Department of Homeland Security - Government Emergency Telecommunications Service and Wireless Priority
Service
https://www.cisa.Qov/qovernmerit-emerQencv-telecommunications-service-Qets
The Government Emergency Telecommunications Service (GETS) provides priority access and prioritized processing in
the local and long-distance segments of the landline networks, greatly increasing the probability of call completion.
Wireless Priority Service (WPS) is intended to be used in an emergency or crisis situation when the wireless network is
congested and the probability of completing a normal call is reduced.
USAGE Emergency Power Facility Assessment Tool
https://epfat.swf.usace.armv.mil/Welcome.aspx
A secure web-based tool that can be used by water and wastewater facility owners/operators, or emergency response
agencies, to input, store, update and/or view temporary emergency power assessment data.
Page 41 | PSPS SOP Template
-------
APPENDIX C - ACRONYMS
ATS
Automatic Transfer Switches
BAESIC
Bay Area Emergency and Security Information Collective
CalFire
California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection
CalTrans
California Department of Transportation
CalWARN
California Water and Wastewater Agency Response Network (CalWARN)
CERC
Crisis and Emergency Risk Communication
CERT
Community Emergency Response Team
DDW
Division of Drinking Water
DOC
Department Operations Center
EMA
Emergency Management Agency
EOC
Emergency Operations Center
EOT
Emergency Operations Team
EPA
United States Environmental Protection Agency
ERR
Emergency Response Plan
FEMA
Federal Emergency Management Agency
GETS
Government Emergency Telecommunications Service
H&S
Health and Safety
ICS
Incident Command System
ICWA
Inland Counties Water Association
O&M
Operations and Management
OES
Office of Emergency Services
PG&E
Pacific Gas and Electric Company
PIO
Public Information Officer
PLC
Programmable Logic Controller
POC
Point of Contact
PPE
Personal Protective Equipment
PSPS
Public Safety Power Shutoff
RANS
Rapid Alert Notification System
SCADA
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition
SCE
Southern California Edison
SGIP
Self-Generation Incentive Program
SOP
Standard Operating Procedure
TTX
Tabletop Exercise
USAGE
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
WPS
Wireless Priority Service
WSSP
Water Sector Specific Position
Page 42 | PSPS SOP Template
------- |