Colour Coding for Secret Wall Outlet Boxes
Secret wall outlets must be salmon pink to ensure correct security level identification.
Plain language
Wall outlet boxes that carry cables labelled 'SECRET' need to be coloured salmon pink. This distinctive colour coding helps everyone quickly spot and properly secure sensitive areas, minimising the risk of accidental information leaks.
Framework
ASD Information Security Manual (ISM)
Control effect
Preventative
Classifications
S
ISM last updated
Nov 2021
Control Stack last updated
19 Mar 2026
E8 maturity levels
N/A
Section
Cabling infrastructureTopic
Wall Outlet Box ColoursOfficial control statement
SECRET wall outlet boxes are coloured salmon pink.
Why it matters
If SECRET wall outlet boxes are not salmon pink, staff may not recognise SECRET outlets, increasing the risk of improper connection or handling in SECRET areas.
Operational notes
Inspect SECRET wall outlet boxes during routine checks; repaint or replace any that are not salmon pink so SECRET outlets remain clearly identifiable.
Implementation tips
- Facilities manager should coordinate with the maintenance team to ensure all SECRET wall outlet boxes are salmon pink. Use a standardised paint or overlay that is durable and matches the specified salmon pink colour.
- IT department needs to identify all existing wall outlets used for SECRET cabling. Conduct a walk-through of the premises, checking each outlet to ensure the correct colour is used.
- Procurement officer should update the purchasing guidelines to specify that all new outlet boxes for SECRET wiring must be salmon pink before installation. Work with suppliers to ensure this colour requirement is met.
- Train staff responsible for physical security to recognise salmon pink outlet boxes as a sign of SECRET-level communications. Use simple visual aids and regular briefings to reinforce this awareness.
- Engage an external auditor or compliance officer annually to verify that all relevant outlet boxes are the correct salmon pink colour. Ensure they check selected locations at random for compliance.
Audit / evidence tips
-
Askan inventory list of all wall outlets designated for SECRET use
GoodA detailed list showing salmon pink as the colour for all SECRET outlets
-
Askrecent training records for the staff responsible for security checks
GoodCertificates or attendance sheets showing staff have completed such training within the last year
-
GoodRecent invoices showing purchasing of salmon pink wall outlet boxes for SECRET use
-
Askthe maintenance logs that record any updates or changes to outlet colours
GoodMaintenance logs showing salmon pink verification checks
-
GoodDated photos showing salmon pink outlets in specified locations
Cross-framework mappings
How ISM-1720 relates to controls across ISO/IEC 27001, Essential Eight, and ASD ISM.
ISO 27001
| Control | Notes | Details |
|---|---|---|
| layers Partially meets (2) expand_less | ||
| Annex A 7.3 | ISM-1720 mandates a specific identification standard: SECRET wall outlet boxes are salmon pink to support correct handling within facilities | |
| Annex A 7.6 | ISM-1720 requires SECRET wall outlet boxes to be coloured salmon pink so personnel can correctly and quickly identify the required securi... | |
These mappings show relationships between controls across frameworks. They do not imply full equivalence or certification.