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4.2 Physical Security

7.10

Physical Securitysecurity in an electronics manufacturing environment is not limited to theft prevention; it is the primary firewall for Intellectual Property (IP) protection and client data integrity. A breach in physical security compromises the "Chain of Custody" for high-value components and violates non-disclosure agreements (NDAs). This chapter defines the mandatory access control architecture, surveillance standards, and asset protection protocols required to maintain TAPA (Transported Asset Protection Association) and ISO 27001 compliance.

Access Control Architecture

Facility access is governed by a tiered zoning system. Movement between zones must be physically restricted and electronically logged.

  • Zone 1: Public/Administrative (Lobby, Offices)
    • Access: Standard RFID badge.
    • Visitor Mandate: All non-employees must sign NDAs and wear distinct "Visitor" badges (Red/Yellow) visible at all times. Visitors must be escorted 100% of the time by badged personnel.
  • Zone 2: General Production (SMT Lines, Assembly)
    • Access: RFID Badge + Anti-Passback enforcement.
    • Barrier: Full-height turnstiles or airlock doors to prevent "tailgating."
    • Log Retention: Access Control:logs must be retained for 12 months.
  • Zone 3: Restricted (Server Room, High-Value Cage)
    • Access: Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) required. This consists of RFID Badge + Biometric Scan Biometrics/Badges(Fingerprint foror server rooms and "Cage" areas (high-value component storage)Iris).
    • CameraDoor Policies:Hardware: Doors must be fail-secure (remain locked upon power loss, barring fire code overrides) and equipped with door contact sensors to trigger alarms if propped open for >30 seconds.

Video Surveillance (CCTV) Standards

The CCTV infrastructure provides forensic auditability for safety incidents and asset tracking.

  • Coverage Mandates:
    • Entries/Exits: 100% coverage of all perimeter doors and internal zone transitions with facial identification clarity.
    • Loading Docks: Cameras must capture license plates of all incoming/outgoing vehicles.
    • Production Lines: Wide-angle coverage of SMT lines to verify machine utilization and operator presence.
  • Technical Specifications:
    • Resolution: Minimum 1080p (2MP) Wherefor general areas; 4K (8MP) for high-value counting areas.
    • Frame Rate: Minimum 15 FPS (Frames Per Second).
    • Retention: Footage must be stored on redundant RAID arrays for a minimum of 90 days before overwrite.

IP Protection & Imaging Policy

To protect client designs, the control of image capture devices is strictly enforced.

  • Restricted Imaging Zones: Photography and video recording are strictly prohibited on the production floor ("Red Zone") without written authorization from the Plant Manager.
  • Personal Devices: Personal smartphones and cameras are allowedbanned from Zone 2 (security)Production) vs.and whereZone they3 (Restricted). They must be stored in lockers located in Zone 1.
  • CCTV Privacy Masks: Security cameras must be angled or digitally masked to prevent recording contents of computer monitors displaying CAD data, schematics, or BOMs.

High-Value Asset Storage ("The Cage")

Components classified as High-Value (e.g., CPUs, FPGAs, Memory) must be stored in a segregated, physical enclosure known as "The Cage."

  • Physical Structure: The enclosure must be floor-to-ceiling chain-link or mesh steel to prevent unauthorized reaching or climbing.
  • Inventory Control:
    • Cycle Counts: Mandatory daily cycle count of top 10 value SKUs.
    • Transaction Logs: All items entering or leaving The Cage must be electronically scanned. Manual logbooks are bannedinsufficient.
    • Two-Person Rule: Access to The Cage for inventory adjustment requires two authorized employees to badge in simultaneously.

Final Checklist

Security Layer

Parameter

Limit / Mandate

Zone 2 Access

Authentication

Badge + Anti-Passback

Zone 3 Access

Authentication

Badge + Biometric

CCTV

Data Retention

>90 Days

CCTV

Resolution

>1080p

IP Protection

Personal Phones

Banned in Zone 2/3

The Cage

Access Protocol

Two-Person Rule

The Cage

Inventory Freq.

Daily (clientTop IP10 protection/privacy).SKUs)

Perimeter

Door Propped Alarm

>30 Seconds