The American Petroleum Institute and the National Petrochemical & Refiners Association today announced release of a new methodology for evaluating the likelihood and consequences of terrorist attacks against refineries and petrochemical facilities

. Jointly, the two organizations published "Security Vulnerability Assessment Methodology for Petroleum and Petrochemical Facilities" for companies to use in assessing vulnerabilities and potential damages from different kinds terrorist attacks.

In the post September 11 era, companies have reevaluated and enhanced security at their facilities. The methodology will provide officials with a new analytical tool to determine "the likelihood of an adversary successfully exploiting vulnerability and the resulting degree of damage or impact."

In addition to the new publication, API also issued the second edition of "Security Guidance for the Petroleum Industry," first issued in April 2002, and now in use at oil and gas facilities around the world to help managers decide how to deter terrorist attacks.

Both the vulnerability assessment methodology and the more general guidelines were produced in close collaboration with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and other federal agencies.