Which type of control must be utilized to enhance physical access security as per CIP-006?

The emphasis on physical access control systems in CIP-006 is essential for enhancing security measures within critical infrastructure facilities. These systems are designed specifically to restrict and monitor access to physical areas, thereby safeguarding against unauthorized entry and potential threats to the facilities that support the reliable operation of the electric grid.

Physical access control systems encompass a variety of technologies and processes, including access cards, biometric scanners, and surveillance cameras. These systems play a pivotal role in establishing a secure environment, providing not only the ability to manage who can enter certain areas but also facilitating the logging and monitoring of access events for auditing and security purposes.

While documented staff training programs, automated incident response systems, and virtual access monitoring tools contribute to a comprehensive security strategy, they serve different functions. Training programs enhance personnel awareness and readiness, incident response systems focus on reacting to security events, and virtual monitoring tools track digital access rather than physical entry. Thus, none of these alternatives directly operate in the realm of reinforcing physical security the way physical access control systems do.