ISM-1720 policy ASD Information Security Manual (ISM)

Colour Coding for Secret Wall Outlet Boxes

Secret wall outlets must be salmon pink to ensure correct security level identification.

Preventative S ASD Information Security ManualGuidelines for communications infrastructure cabling secure facilities

record_voice_over

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.

01 - Overview

Framework

ASD Information Security Manual (ISM)

Control effect

Preventative

Classifications

ISM last updated

Nov 2021

Control Stack last updated

19 Mar 2026

E8 maturity levels

N/A

Guideline

Guidelines for communications infrastructure

Section

Cabling infrastructure

Topic

Wall Outlet Box Colours

Official control statement

SECRET wall outlet boxes are coloured salmon pink.

policy ASD Information Security Manual (ISM) ISM-1720

priority_high

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.

settings

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.

02 - Implement

build

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.

03 - Audit

fact_check

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

04 - Mappings

link

Cross-framework mappings

How ISM-1720 relates to controls across ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 42001, 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.