Operating plan contact information should be validated how often?

Validating operating plan contact information annually is a best practice for maintaining effective communication and ensuring operational reliability. Regular updates to contact information help to ensure that all relevant parties have the most current details, which is critical during emergencies or unexpected events. This annual review aligns with the need for organizations to stay prepared and responsive, facilitating quick communication when coordination is necessary.

These regular validations help ensure that roles and responsibilities are clear and that personnel can reach the right contacts in the event of a system disturbance or when requiring operational guidance. While it's vital to have this information current, the annual frequency strikes a balance between keeping information fresh and not overwhelming the operational staff with constant updates, allowing adequate time for the review process. This approach supports compliance with NERC’s reliability standards that emphasize accurate and timely communication in the energy sector.