NIST 800-171 Control 3.10.1: Physical Access Authorization
Control 3.10.1 requires you to restrict physical access to your organizational systems and facilities to only authorized individuals. This foundational control prevents unauthorized personnel from tampering with, stealing, or damaging critical infrastructure. For SMBs handling controlled unclassified information (CUI), enforcing physical access boundaries is essential to meet NIST 800-171 requirements.
What this means
Physical access authorization means establishing and maintaining a system that verifies an individual's authorization before allowing them into spaces where organizational systems are located. This includes server rooms, network closets, workstation areas, and any facility housing IT infrastructure. Authorization must be documented, monitored, and regularly reviewed to ensure only personnel with legitimate business needs can access these areas.
How to comply
- 1.Identify all physical locations containing organizational systems, including primary facilities, backup sites, and remote access points
- 2.Define authorization criteria based on job role, security clearance level, and documented business need-to-know
- 3.Implement physical access controls such as badge readers, biometric systems, locked doors, or security checkpoints
- 4.Maintain an up-to-date access control list documenting who is authorized to enter each restricted area and why
- 5.Issue and revoke access credentials (badges, keys, biometric enrollment) promptly when personnel are hired, transferred, or terminated
- 6.Conduct regular audits of physical access logs to detect unauthorized attempts or anomalies
- 7.Document all access control policies and procedures in your security plan
- 8.Train authorized personnel on access control procedures and security expectations
Evidence auditors look for
- Physical access control policy document defining authorization criteria and approval workflows
- Access control list (ACL) showing authorized personnel by facility and area, with authorization dates
- Badge/credential issuance and revocation records
- Physical access logs showing entries, exits, and badge reader activity
- Photographs or documentation of physical security measures (locks, card readers, security gates)
- Visitor sign-in/sign-out logs with sponsoring employee names
- Security awareness training records for personnel with physical access
- Audit reports of physical access control effectiveness and compliance reviews
- Change management records for access changes due to employee transitions
Frequently asked questions
When will FAQs be available?
The FAQ for this control is currently being prepared.
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