When is an unplanned evacuation from a BES control center facility reportable?

An unplanned evacuation from a Bulk Electric System (BES) control center facility is reportable if it lasts longer than 30 minutes. This timeframe is critical because it aligns with established protocols that ensure the reliability and safety of operations within the BES framework.

The 30-minute threshold is significant as it allows for the management of operations while ensuring that any evacuation does not interrupt critical monitoring and control activities for an extended period. If an evacuation occurs for less than 30 minutes, it may not impact the overall functions of the facility significantly, but any situation that persists beyond this duration indicates a potential risk that could affect reliability.

Prompt reporting beyond this timeframe is essential for ensuring regulatory compliance and for the assessment of the situation, as longer evacuations could signify more serious underlying issues that need to be addressed. This aligns with best practices in emergency response and situational awareness in the context of power system operations.