Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIFs) and Special Access Program Facilities (SAPFs) are critical for safeguarding sensitive and classified information. Whether you are a government contractor, architect, or security consultant, understanding SCIF/SAPF wall types and their requirements is essential for compliance with Intelligence Community Directive (ICD) 705. This blog will explore the minimum wall construction standards outlined by ICD 705, their purposes, and where each type is most effectively utilized.
ICD 705 Wall Construction Requirements
ICD 705 provides a unified set of standards for SCIF/SAPF walls, including specifications for materials, sound attenuation, and physical security. These standards fall into three primary categories:
Sound Transmission Class (STC) Ratings: Preventing audible transmission of sensitive conversations.
Forced Entry and Ballistic Resistance: Protecting against physical breaches and attacks.
Electromagnetic Protection (TEMPEST): Mitigating electronic eavesdropping.
Each requirement plays a critical role in safeguarding classified information and must be integrated into the facility’s design and construction.
Key SCIF/SAPF Wall Types
The choice of wall type depends on the specific security needs of the SCIF or SAPF. Below, we outline the primary wall types per ICD-705 Technical Specifications, their features, and their recommended applications.
1. Wall Type A
Minimum Requirements:
Double-layer, Type X gypsum wallboard (5/8-inch thick) on the controlled side of 16ga 3-5/8" metal studs or 2x4 wood studs, single layer on the other.
Acoustic insulation (e.g., mineral wool) within the cavity.
Specialty acoustic caulk for all seams and penetrations.
STC Rating: Typically 45, depending on additional treatments. An additional layer of drywall on the uncontrolled side is added for conditions with amplified sound, bringing the assembly to STC 50.
Applications: Wall Type A is suitable for SCIFs or SAPFs where sound attenuation requirements are moderate, and there is minimal risk of forced entry. These walls are cost-effective and commonly found in administrative SCIFs or SAPFs where the primary concern is acoustic security rather than physical penetration.
2. Wall Type B
Minimum Requirements:
Double-layer, Type X gypsum wallboard (5/8-inch thick) on the controlled side of 16ga 3-5/8" metal studs, single layer on the other.
Integration of 3/4" no. 9 10ga expanded metal on the controlled side of the partition for intrusion protection.
Acoustic insulation (e.g., mineral wool) within the cavity.
STC Rating: Typically 45, depending on additional treatments. An additional layer of drywall on the uncontrolled side is added for conditions with amplified sound, bringing the assembly to STC 50.
Applications: Wall Type B is an option in SCIFs or SAPFs with higher physical and technical security risks. These walls are ideal for facilities in high-threat areas or as required by Security-in-Depth.
3. Wall Type C
Minimum Requirements:
Double-layer, Type X gypsum wallboard (5/8-inch thick) on one side of 16ga 3-5/8" metal studs, single layer on the other.
Integration of 5/8" plywood on the controlled side of the partition for intrusion protection.
Acoustic insulation (e.g., mineral wool) within the cavity.
STC Rating: 50 or higher, depending on additional treatments.
Applications: Wall Type C is an option in SCIFs or SAPFs with higher physical and technical security risks. These walls are ideal for facilities in high-threat areas or as required by Security-in-Depth.
What about TEMPEST?
All three wall types can include TEMPEST mitigation, the specifics of which will be determined by the project's Certified TEMPEST Technical Authority (CTTA). This typically takes the form of rFoil, which is located between the two layers of gypsum board on the controlled side (or between plywood and gypsum in the case of Wall Type C). rFoil should never be installed on the uncontrolled side of the partition.
Additionally, foil backed drywall is sometimes discussed in terms of TEMPEST protections. This typically is not allowed as it does not perform as well as the dedicated layer of rFoil.
Utilizing Wall Types Effectively
Selecting the appropriate wall type is not solely about meeting ICD 705 requirements; it is also about tailoring the design to the specific operational needs of the SCIF or SAPF. Below are considerations for effective application:
Location-Specific Needs
Urban Environments: Facilities in densely populated areas may require enhanced acoustic walls to prevent sound leakage.
High-Threat Areas: Locations exposed to greater security risks necessitate forced-entry resistant walls.
Facility Functionality
Discussion Areas: Conference rooms or other areas designated for verbal communication typically require higher STC-rated walls.
Storage Areas: Spaces used to store classified documents or equipment can often utilize standard Wall Type A assemblies, provided the risk assessment supports their use.
Integration with Technical Security
Wall types should be part of a holistic Security-in-Depth strategy, integrating with:
Alarm and Monitoring Systems: Reinforced walls paired with intrusion detection systems enhance physical security.
Access Control: Secure door assemblies complement wall construction to ensure perimeter integrity.
Electronic Safeguards: TEMPEST shielding works in tandem with other electronic measures to prevent data leakage.
Achieving Compliance with ICD 705
Complying with ICD 705 requires meticulous attention to detail during planning, construction, and certification phases. Here are steps to ensure your SCIF or SAPF meets minimum wall construction requirements:
1. Conduct a Thorough Risk Assessment
Before designing the facility, conduct a comprehensive risk assessment to identify specific threats and vulnerabilities. This assessment will guide the selection of wall types and other security measures.
2. Collaborate with Certified Professionals
Engage experienced architects, engineers, and contractors familiar with ICD 705 standards. Their expertise ensures proper implementation of wall types and other construction elements.
3. Perform Rigorous Inspections
During construction, conduct inspections to verify compliance with specifications and best practices. Pay particular attention to seams, penetrations, and material installation.
4. Obtain Accreditation
The accreditation process will include a review of wall construction to ensure it meets all ICD 705 requirements.
Conclusion
Understanding SCIF/SAPF wall types and their minimum requirements is a cornerstone of facility security. Each type serves a specific purpose in protecting classified information. By aligning wall construction with ICD 705 guidelines and the facility’s unique security needs, you can create an environment that ensures both compliance and operational integrity. These wall types are minimum requirements, and can be, and often are exceeded due to the specific needs to each facility.
Whether you are designing a new SCIF/SAPF or retrofitting an existing facility, Cooper Building Services is here to help. Our team of experts specializes in secure construction, delivering solutions that meet and exceed ICD 705 standards. Contact us today to discuss your project and learn how we can support your mission-critical objectives.