How often should the Physical Access Control System be maintained and tested?

The correct maintenance and testing frequency for the Physical Access Control System as outlined in NERC CIP v7 standards is every 24 months. This interval is in place to ensure that physical access controls are functioning as intended and to mitigate any risks associated with physical security vulnerabilities. Regular maintenance and testing help in identifying and addressing potential weaknesses in the system that could be exploited, thereby ensuring the integrity and security of the Critical Assets.

Conducting these activities every two years aligns with industry best practices and recognizes that security technologies may evolve, necessitating periodic assessments to ensure compliance and effectiveness. Additionally, this timeframe allows for sufficient operational time to accurately assess and observe the performance and reliability of the Physical Access Control Systems in real-world scenarios.

Ensuring that the maintenance and testing occur at the specified intervals is crucial not only for meeting regulatory requirements but also for enhancing the overall security posture of the organization, particularly in relation to protecting critical infrastructure.