The content and structure of Continuity of Operations Plans (COOP), operational standards, and coordination with other agencies, were left to the discretion of individual agencies. This COOP was developed for Department on Disability Services and is designed to be a major component of a comprehensive and effective program to ensure the continuity of essential functions and governance under all circumstances.
The District of Columbia already has an Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) that is used to prepare for, respond to, and recover from major disasters. This COOP will serve as a supplemental tool designed to help the Department on Disability Services effectively resume day-to-day core services and functions following a disaster.
This COOP documents the basic information, procedures, and guidance, which will enable Department on Disability Services to resume its essential functions within 12 hours of an emergency, with or without advance warning, and to sustain continuous operations for the entire cycle of the incident. This plan addresses the emergencies from an all-hazards approach. This COOP:
- Delineates Essential Functions and Activities
- Delegates Authority
- Establishes Orders of Succession
- Identifies Vital Records, Files, Databases, Systems, and Equipment
- Identifies Requirements for Interoperable Communications
- Identifies Alternate Locations
- Identifies COOP Maintenance Requirements and Responsibilities
- Outlines Tests, Training, and Exercises for COOP Capabilities
- Contains Operational Checklists
