Open Storage Area vs. SCIF: Which Does My Company Need?

The Short Answer

A DCSA Open Storage Area and a SCIF are both secure spaces, but they are not interchangeable. They support different information, authorities, and approval frameworks.

DCSA Open Storage Area

An Open Storage Area is used to safeguard collateral classified information under the National Industrial Security Program when classified material will be stored openly within an approved area rather than only inside security containers.

For DCSA-cognizant contractors, the approval package commonly includes DCSA Form 147 and supporting information describing the physical-security measures, Security-in-Depth, IDS, openings, and other facility details.

SCIF

A Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility is an accredited area for Sensitive Compartmented Information. SCIF construction and accreditation are governed through the ICD/ICS 705 framework and project-specific direction from the applicable cognizant security and accrediting authorities.

How to Know Which One You Need

• Start with the contract and security classification guidance. The DD Form 254, program direction, or government security representative should identify the classified requirement.
• Identify the information type. Collateral SECRET/TOP SECRET and SCI are not the same facility requirement.
• Confirm who has approval authority. DCSA may be the cognizant security agency for collateral safeguarding, while SCI facilities follow the applicable IC/DoD accreditation chain.
• Do not design first and ask later. The authority and mission requirement should drive the physical solution.

What if the Company Needs Both?

Some organizations operate multiple secure spaces or facilities supporting different programs. A facility strategy should consider the actual mission, personnel, classified systems, storage requirement, future growth, and the cost of maintaining separate security environments.