HHS site carries emergency info
HHS became one of the first agencies to use its Web site to deliver crisis information for employees
The Department of Health and Human Services today became one of the first federal agencies to use its Web site to keep employees informed about security procedures and other issues in the wake of the terrorist attacks that have shaken the nation.
At 8 a.m. Sept. 12, the agency's Web site (www.hhs.gov), posted emergency information about blood donations and details for HHS employees about getting to work. It detailed heightened security precautions that have gone into effect.
"All ID badges must be visible at all times," the Web site notice said. There will be "100% parking permit verification, visual inspection of under-carriage and packages of all vehicles entering the building."
In a message to employees, HHS Secretary Tommy Thompson said HHS guards also will "hand touch" every ID presented by an employee. He also ordered employees to keep badges visible at all times.
"I want to assure you that we continue to monitor the situation, and we will keep you informed through the e-mail system and the HHS Web page," he said.
The site will be updated at 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. every day.
The Energy Department used its Web site (www.energy.gov) today to tell its workers to monitor radio and television for updates on whether government was open.
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