Physical Security Considerations for Remote and Telework Environments
May 16, 2023 - Defence Stories
As an increasing number of Government of Canada (GC) employees adopt hybrid or remote work arrangements, it is crucial to prioritize physical security in relation to the storage of GC information and assets. The following infographic highlights key physical security considerations that must not be neglected when working outside of a designated worksite.
Infographic - Text version
Physical Security Considerations for Remote and Telework Environments
Government of Canada (GC) employees are required to assess physical security, and to apply the appropriate protection and storage requirements for GC information and assets, while working in a location other than the designated worksite.
Employees at Remote/Telework (R/T) Locations have the responsibilities to:
- Follow all security control requirements for the possession, handling, processing, storage, transportation, destruction and care of GC information and assets;
- Only use approved electronic devices; and
- Clearly understand and implement all R/T security control measures that contribute to the secure processing of GC information at their location.
- Employees are responsible for sensitive information and assets against unauthorised disclosure, loss, theft, fire, destruction, damage, or modification; and are to follow GC, departmental and security policiesgoverning the use of electronic devices.
| - | Storage | Rooms/offices | Monitoring |
|---|---|---|---|
Protected A & B Physical Protections must be employed |
Info must be stored in a lockable container, out of sight, and inaccessible to any unauthorised access when not in use. | Consider control measures such as locked doors to limit unauthorised viewing or access. | N/A |
Confidential & Secret (When approved by DGDS) Handling of this material while en route to the R/T location is not authorised |
Info must be stored in approved storage containers, fastened to building structure if Secret. Approved security containers can be found in the RCMP Security Equipment Guide |
A dedicated lockable room (with commercial grade hardware) must be used. High value assets or monetary instruments must not be stored in the same container as other info or assets. | A monitored residential alarm system capable of initiating a response element must be installed. A TRA/PSSFootnote * may identify the requirement for additional security measures. |
| Protected C & Top Secret | Not Auhtorised | ||
Other Security Considerations
- Completing Security Awareness Training
- Cohabitation
- Security Clearance/ Status Expiry
- Transportation
- Control of Information and Assets During Processing
- Protection and Use of Electronic Storage Media
- Printing, Copying and Scanning
- Information and Asset Disposal
- Returning Assets
- Checklists, Guides and Process Maps
For more information: For all enquiries, please contact PhysicalSecurity@forces.gc.ca
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