FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About SCIF Projects

Who better to answer your questions than the people who fit-out and secure SCIF projects every day? We reached out to our technicians and field experts and asked them: “What do clients always want to know?” Here’s what they shared.

UTS provides post-fit-out support to help facilities remain compliant, secure, and operational. We handle maintenance, system upgrades, and adjustments for reaccreditation. Whether clients are expanding capacity, adding new IT/AV systems, or reconfiguring existing setups, we ensure every update meets accreditation standards.

UTS specializes in SCIF fit-outs and has extensive experience with ICD 705 compliant projects. Our team understands evolving accreditation requirements and applies that knowledge to every project. We have successfully delivered secure facility integrations for federal and defense clients by combining technical expertise with strict compliance.

We use approved materials designed to meet both acoustic and electromagnetic shielding requirements. Examples include sound-dampening insulation, RF shielding systems such as foil or mesh, SCIF-rated doors, and tamper-resistant wall penetrations. All materials align with ICD 705 specifications.

When performing IT fit-outs inside SCIF projects, UTS follows strict procedures to ensure compliance. All hardware is selected and configured to meet TEMPEST and Risk Management Framework (RMF) requirements, along with any client-specific security guidelines. We also coordinate with accrediting officials to confirm that all systems meet formal approval.

UTS provides end-to-end SCIF fit-out services. Our scope includes secure wall systems, telecom and IT infrastructure, structured cabling, networking, audiovisual integration, and accreditation support. By managing both the physical environment and the technology inside it, we ensure that each secure facility project is fully functional and compliant.

Any violation of SCIF security protocols must be reported immediately. Consequences may include removal from the secure facility, suspension of access, formal investigation, or other disciplinary actions depending on severity. All personnel are required to follow security briefings and posted procedures before entering.

At a minimum, individuals must hold an active federal security clearance, typically Secret or Top Secret, and have a verified need-to-know for the information processed inside. They must also complete a SCIF security briefing provided by a designated security officer before being granted access.

TEMPEST certification ensures that electronic devices do not emit electromagnetic signals that could be intercepted outside a secure space. Meeting TEMPEST standards is a critical requirement for SCIF accreditation, as it protects sensitive data from potential exploitation.

Sound suppression in a SCIF is achieved using specialized materials such as SoundSoak acoustic panels, SCIF-rated doors, acoustical ceiling tiles, and sealed tamper-protected wall penetrations. Together, these elements prevent classified conversations or signals from leaking outside the secure environment.

If you don’t see your question answered here, reach out to us. Our team is available to discuss your next SCIF fit-out or provide guidance on secure IT and AV installations.