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Communications infrastructure
ASD ISMISM-1130

ASD ISM 1130 Use enclosed systems for shared facility cables

What it says

In shared facilities, cables are run in an enclosed cable reticulation system.

Quoted as published. Everything else on this page is written by Control Stack.

What it means

In plain English

Ensure cables in shared buildings are placed in closed pathways to prevent tampering.

In buildings where different organisations share space, it's important to keep computer cables secure by running them through closed systems. This prevents anyone from tampering with the cables, which could lead to data breaches or network disruptions.

Why it matters

Exposed shared-facility cabling can be tampered with or intercepted, causing data exposure or outages and disrupting continuity.

How to implement

  1. Facilities managers should work with IT staff to identify all areas where cables are shared with other organisations.

    Document these areas and prioritise them for upgrading to enclosed systems.

  2. The IT team should select appropriate enclosed cable trays or conduits based on the building's layout.

    Choose materials that are durable and provide secure fittings to prevent unauthorised access.

  3. Installation contractors should follow best practices for setting up enclosed cable systems.

    Ensure they use tamper-proof screws and secure the sections together to prevent easy access.

  4. Security officers should regularly inspect the enclosed systems for signs of tampering.

    They can be trained to look for loose fittings or any damage that might indicate attempted breaches.

  5. Office managers can coordinate with building maintenance to ensure routine checks of the enclosed systems.

    Schedule these checks to occur monthly and keep a log of inspections and any maintenance performed.

Keep it running

Inspect enclosed cable reticulation for damage or unauthorised access, and record any cable moves/additions in change logs.

Evidence and audit

  1. Check 1 of 3What an auditor asks for

    Ask for

    The floor plan showing all cable pathways in shared areas.

    Look at

    Locations marked as using enclosed systems. Good evidence includes clearly marked routes and identification numbers of each section used.

    Good evidence

    Log shows consistent monthly checks and prompt repair records if tampering is noted.

  2. Check 2 of 3What an auditor asks for

    Ask for

    To see the specification documents for the materials used in the system: Confirm that they match the requirements for security and durability.

    Good evidence

    Document includes specs like material type, thickness, and security features.

  3. Check 3 of 3What an auditor asks for

    Ask for

    Visual documentation of installations, like photos.

    Look at

    Secure fittings and joints in the enclosed systems. Good photos should clearly show tamper-proof features and complete sealing without visible gaps.

Mappings

Closest match in ISO/IEC 27001: A.7.12, Secure cabling for power and data, which this control partially meets.

ISO 27001

ISO/IEC 27001: 1 mapping

Mappings show how controls relate across frameworks. They do not imply full equivalence or certification.