According to CIP-006 R2, what is required for visitor access in physical security?

CIP-006 R2 outlines the requirements for visitor access to substations and other critical infrastructure locations to ensure the security and integrity of these facilities. Under this regulation, continuous escorted access is mandated for visitors, thereby ensuring that personnel who are not authorized to be in those areas do not operate independently.

This requirement is crucial as it allows for real-time monitoring of visitor activities, helping to mitigate any potential security risks that could arise from unmonitored access. Continuous escorting provides an additional layer of oversight, which is essential for maintaining the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the critical infrastructure.

In considering alternatives, unescorted access at all times does not adhere to the stringent security measures needed in these environments. Automated security checks alone do not provide the necessary human oversight to ensure immediate response to any anomalous behavior or security breaches. Similarly, temporary access without logging offers no accountability or traceability, which is vital for security audits and incident investigations. Thus, the continuous escorted access requirement is crucial for safeguarding critical infrastructure effectively.