Ensure Cables Are Inspectable Every Five Metres
Cables outside TOP SECRET areas should be easy to inspect every five metres for security checks.
Plain language
This control ensures that cables used outside of highly secure areas, like TOP SECRET zones, can be easily inspected every five metres. It's important because any damage or tampering with cables could allow unauthorised access to sensitive information, leading to data breaches or security incidents.
Framework
ASD Information Security Manual (ISM)
Control effect
Detective
Classifications
NC, OS, P, S
ISM last updated
Nov 2024
Control Stack last updated
19 Mar 2026
E8 maturity levels
N/A
Section
Cabling infrastructureTopic
Cable InspectabilityOfficial control statement
Cables in non-TOP SECRET areas are inspectable every five metres or less.
Why it matters
Failure to inspect cables every five metres may enable undetected tampering, exposing the organisation to potential data breaches.
Operational notes
Design cable routes so all runs are visually inspectable at least every five metres (or less); add access panels/points and avoid concealed segments between inspection intervals.
Implementation tips
- Building managers should ensure that cable installations are planned with inspectability in mind. This involves consulting with engineers to map out routes where cables can be easily inspected every five metres, placing them in areas that allow easy visual checks.
- IT and maintenance teams should set up regular inspection schedules. This means assigning team members to visually inspect each five-metre segment of cabling at routine intervals, looking for signs of wear or tampering.
- Procurement teams should purchase cabling solutions that support this requirement. They should look for products designed with access panels or points every five metres, which can make the inspection process much simpler.
- Trainers or safety officers should conduct briefing sessions for staff involved in cabling maintenance. They should explain why five-metre inspections are crucial, demonstrating how to properly check cables and what issues to look out for.
- System owners should document all cabling routes and inspection points. They need to create detailed plans and logs that are easily accessible, so any person involved in security audits can quickly verify the setup.
Audit / evidence tips
-
Askthe cable layout plans: Request maps or documentation showing where all cables are laid out
Goodincludes clear plans with all required inspection points highlighted
-
Goodis a completed log showing regular checks, with any issues properly documented and addressed
-
Askmaintenance team training records: Request proof of training sessions that cover cable inspection procedures
Goodincludes recent training records with most team members attending
-
Askthe purchase specifications for cabling
Goodis documentation showing products that accommodate regular inspection requirements
-
Askincident response records related to cabling: Request any recorded incidents of cable distortion or tampering
Goodincludes incident records showing prompt and effective responses to cable-related issues
Cross-framework mappings
How ISM-1112 relates to controls across ISO/IEC 27001, Essential Eight, and ASD ISM.
ISO 27001
| Control | Notes | Details |
|---|---|---|
| layers Partially meets (1) expand_less | ||
| Annex A 7.12 | ISM-1112 requires cables in non-TOP SECRET areas to be physically inspectable at intervals of five metres or less to support routine secu... | |
These mappings show relationships between controls across frameworks. They do not imply full equivalence or certification.