When you see an empty shipping container, your first thought might not be that it could become a modular SCIF (Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility) or SAPF (Special Access Program Facility).

However, modular construction companies often transform shipping containers—both those that have been used before and those that haven’t—into secure facilities that are fully ICD 705 compliant. While there are many benefits of choosing shipping containers for these kinds of projects, it’s important to keep your budget in mind because the cost of renovating an existing space is almost always less than what it’ll cost to buy a container SCIF.

The Advantages of Converting Shipping Containers

Time is perhaps the main benefit of forgoing traditional construction and instead converting an ISO (International Organization for Standardization) shipping container into a container SCIF. Because modular construction companies generally aren’t juggling permitting timelines or landlord-related hold-ups, they can fabricate the facility faster than a contractor can build it.

Fabricating a container SCIF in a factory setting means that there are no construction-related disruptions to the space where the facility will ultimately live. It also means that there is a much higher product quality and consistency than there would be for a typical construction project.

The Disadvantages of Converting Shipping Containers

Cost, however, is important to keep in mind. Converting a shipping container into a container SCIF is more expensive than renovating an existing space.

While existing buildings already have HVAC and electrical systems that only need modifications to meet ICD 705 requirements, both of these systems will need to be added to a shipping container. A budget for a container SCIF must also factor in transporting the facility from the factory to its final destination—a cost that isn’t incurred when an existing space is modified.

Shipping container space limitations may also give some clients pause. While standard ISO shipping containers can be 10, 20 or 40 feet in length, they are only 8 feet wide with a height of either 8.5 or 9.5 feet. This restricts the kinds of workspaces that can be created inside.

How a Shipping Container Becomes a SCIF or SAPF

Simply put, a modular construction company will begin with a standard 10-, 20- or 40-foot ISO shipping container and build it according to the project’s ICD 705 requirements.

But what exactly does that process look like?

First, a Construction Security Plan (CSP) is written, just as it would be for a standard fixed facility. The contractor also provides a pre-Fixed Facilities Checklist (FFC) for the customer to complete at the onset of the project. A Transportation Security Plan (TSP), which ensures the security of a modular SCIF when it is moved to its final location, is also drafted.

Once the empty shipping container arrives at the factory, the exterior is typically prepared first for repainting. Full sound-rated and RF-shielded floor, wall, and ceiling systems are installed next. Almost all of the products are the same as those that would be used for a conventional construction project.

The modified shipping container will also be outfitted with the facility’s specific needs, which may include installing data racks or bringing in desks and furniture.

Throughout the fabrication process, the CSP is closely followed. As with standard fixed facilities, all checklists are followed to the letter, and photo documentation occurs at every step.

Meeting RF Shielding Requirements

All shipping containers can be fabricated to meet a project’s ICD 705 requirements.

At Universal Modular Inc., all container SCIFs are built to exceed 100 dB of RF shielding. This is achieved by installing waveguides at all penetrations, using honeycomb filters for HVAC air exchange, and using power filtering or data filtering, if required.

ICD 705-compliant doors and hardware are installed, all conduit is surface-mounted, and fire sprinklers with dielectric brakes can be added if necessary. If a project has any other specialty requirements, those will be met.

The Accreditation Process

Your modular construction team will assist throughout the facility’s accreditation process—including with final documentation.

Having expert eyes on these documents—not to mention the entire build process—will help ensure the accuracy of the modular SCIF’s accreditation documentation. Submitting pristine documentation to your Accrediting Official (AO) helps move the process along.

How Long Does the Process Take?

The biggest hurdle is getting your AO to sign off on the container SCIF’s design, a process that can take anywhere from 60 to 180 days. Approval must be granted before fabrication can begin.

In addition to signing off on the design, the AO must review and approve the facility’s TSP. If any issues arise during the build process, the AO must be brought into the loop immediately or else the container SCIF could risk losing its chance at accreditation.

A modular construction team will typically need 8–10 weeks to fabricate a facility once its design is complete and the AO has approved it, though this estimate can shift if a project is more complex.

At the very end of the process, the AO will be the one to sign off on the container SCIF’s accreditation—assuming it meets all ICD 705 requirements—after fabrication is complete and it has been transported to its final destination.

With AO approval timing factored in, it can take anywhere from 7–12 months to complete a project.

Are These Facilities T-SCIFs?

One of the most common questions clients have is whether shipping containers that become SCIFs are T-SCIFs, also known as temporary facilities.

The simple answer is: no. While a client may choose to accredit their completed facility as a T-SCIF, T-SCIF requirements aren’t as stringent as those set out for container SCIFs. Each container SCIF built by UMI is fabricated to meet or exceed the ICD 705 requirements of a fixed facility.

Contact UMI today to get a quote for a container SCIF.

Anyone considering a portable SCIF (Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility) solution will likely want to know: How much does a SCIF cost?

Your portable SCIF contractor will be able to provide you with a general cost range. But figuring out how much your facility will cost will depend on a variety of factors, including what you will use it for, where it will be located, and what level of security it will require.

Before choosing between a container SCIF and a Joint Airlift Micro SCIF (JAMS), review the checklist below to make sure that you have all of the information needed to draft a budget estimate for your project.

Understanding the Information You’ll Need

It’s generally pretty simple to create a portable SCIF budget compared to more traditional secure facility construction. However, there are a few factors that can have a significant impact on cost.

Before your portable SCIF contractor can draft a budget estimate, they will need answers to six key questions:

• Where does your completed portable SCIF need to go?

• How many people or desks must it accommodate?

• How many networks or data racks will it require?

• Will your portable SCIF need copper or fiber data drops?

• What RF shielding level does your facility require for ICD 705 compliance?

• Will you be arranging for your own security systems?

To make the process simpler, you can download this budget planning worksheet created by Universal Modular Inc.

Now let’s break down each of these questions to understand how it impacts the budget for your secure facility project. 

Why Your SCIF’s Destination Impacts Cost

Once fabrication is complete, your portable SCIF contractor will deliver your facility to its final destination. In some cases, deployment is simple: A container SCIF may just need to be placed beside another building. In this case, a forklift can be used to configure the SCIF’s placement once it has been transported to its intended destination.

But if the installation process is more complex, the cost will climb. For example, if a portable SCIF needs to be placed inside another building, the task may require forklifts of two different sizes—one to offload the facility and another to maneuver it inside—and skates to navigate the SCIF around the existing building’s support columns.

Because this kind of specialty installation requires more materials, more people, and  more equipment onsite, the project’s budget will increase.

Why Headcount Matters

Will anyone work from or hold meetings inside of your portable SCIF, or will it primarily serve as a data storage facility?

If people will be conducting business inside, you need to know how many workstations will be required, as this will dictate how large your SCIF needs to be. This also impacts the amount of equipment and furniture needed to outfit your SCIF, as well as the facility’s environmental control and security needs.

The Little Details That Make a Big Difference

The number of networks or data racks your portable SCIF must support is another detail that’s necessary to share with your portable SCIF contractor before a budget can be drafted. Data racks, which hold and protect network equipment, are often used in SCIFs—but the number needed varies by project.

One container SCIF may only require six data racks in total. Another may need six per workstation, and some may be manufactured with the sole purpose of storing data racks. The number you will need depends not only on what your portable SCIF is intended for, but on its size—and the costs vary widely.

It is also vital to know what level of RF shielding your portable SCIF requires to be ICD 705 compliant and whether your facility will need copper or fiber data drops, with fiber significantly more expensive than the CAT-6 alternative. If you will not be providing your own security systems, your  contractor will also need to know which brand is preferred. Each of these variables can have serious cost impacts.

Some clients may need specialty equipment for their portable SCIF, like an OCONUS (Outside the Continental U.S.) power conversion, a generator and automatic transfer switch (ATS), or a UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) battery backup. Though less common, unique program requirements like these can drastically affect the cost.

So … How Much Does a Portable SCIF Cost?

The cost of your project will depend on its specific needs. The budget pricing below is general in nature, and specific program requirements will obviously need to be considered for your project, but these general estimates can give you a starting point:

• A JAMS unit: $310,000 - $350,000

• A 20-foot container SCIF: $350,000 - $400,000

• A 40-foot container SCIF: $450,000 - $500,000

Most portable SCIFs fall within these ranges, which do not include the costs of installation or security systems. Some portable SCIFs cost less, while others that require specialty equipment add-ons may result in the cost jumping much higher.

Once you have reviewed the six-question checklist above and gathered the information needed to answer each question, you will be ready to get started. Download this free custom budget planning worksheet to help you gather the necessary information, then reach out to UMI to get a quote for your portable SCIF.

If you’re exploring modular SCIF (Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility) options, you’ve probably heard of a “SCIF in a box.” But what does that term actually mean?

“SCIF in a box” is a very general term used by both government and industry that refers to any type of portable SCIF that can be delivered fully completed. That means that the SCIF has been prefabricated to meet all of your facility’s functional and security needs.

When most people request a SCIF in a box, they’re looking for a facility that will be ready to use once delivered—without any of the hassle that comes with traditional construction projects.

The solution is most often a container SCIF. But whether this type of SCIF is what your project needs depends on how you intend to use your SCIF.

Understanding Your SCIF in a Box Choices

Universal Modular Inc. (UMI) has several modular SCIF options in varying sizes that can meet the needs of clients in search of a SCIF in a box.

UMI offers container SCIFs as large as 40 feet in length, as well as 20-foot and 10-foot options. Each container SCIF is built using an unaltered ISO shipping container and can be used to store sensitive materials or to provide a secure workspace.

UMI also offers the Joint Airlift Micro SCIF (JAMS) facility, a first-of-its kind air-transportable SCIF that is a bit smaller than 10-foot container SCIFs. The JAMS facility, which UMI developed in partnership with Highland Engineering, Inc., is a converted EAC-90 military shipping container, which weighs little in comparison to most container SCIFs, and can be deployed quickly.

All Options Perform at the Highest Level

Regardless of which size you choose, the fundamental components that UMI uses in fabricating modular SCIFs do not change.

All of UMI’s portable SCIFs can achieve 100dB of RF shielding and can achieve an acoustic protection level of sound transmission class (STC) 50—both levels that are difficult to achieve but that may be required for ICD 705 compliance.

While the size of materials needed will differ depending on which size facility you choose, the type of materials used for the doors, power filters, and RF shielding will be the same.

The only real difference is how long fabrication for one project will take compared to another, and even that only varies by a couple of weeks.

Every SCIF Is Turnkey and Easily Deployable

Every SCIF in a box will arrive ready to use. That includes the power, communications, and security systems, all of which will be ready to be attached when your facility is delivered.

And if your SCIF in a box needs to relocate? Not a problem. All UMI will need to do is disconnect the same power, communications, and security systems that were so easy to connect when the facility was first delivered. From there, the SCIF in a box will be loaded onto a truck and transported to its new home.

A SCIF in a Box Doesn’t Fit All Projects

In some cases, a SCIF in a box may not be the right fit for a project’s needs.

For example, a client overseeing office space may initially explore whether they can bring a SCIF in a box into their existing space. Though the space may technically fit the size of the facility they’re considering, getting it inside can present challenges, depending on the size of the office space’s doors or other entrances.

In some cases, a SCIF in a box may still work, though it may need to be placed outside an existing space or moved to another location entirely. If a prebuilt facility isn’t quite right for your project, UMI also has panelized modular options available.

Are you ready to explore your SCIF in a box options? Contact UMI today to get a quote for a container SCIF or a JAMS facility.

One of the main benefits of modular buildings is that they don’t have to stay in one place forever. Most modular buildings—including modular SCIFs (Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities)—can last decades so long as they are properly maintained.

But the question of location permanence is more complicated.

In short, anything is possible with enough time and resources. It’s the ease of moving a modular SCIF that depends on two things: the difficulty level of the facility’s initial installation and what it was built for.

What You Need to Figure Out First

One of the first questions you’ll be asked when you contact Universal Modular, Inc. (UMI) is: How long do you intend to use your modular building?

It is important for this detail to be ironed out during the initial planning stages. This is because the type of foundation used for your building will dictate how easy—or how difficult—it will be to move it later.

If you only plan to use your modular building for a couple of years, a more basic foundation option will likely meet your needs. But if you’re looking for longevity, the site prep may be more complex—and that means the process of moving the building in the future will be more involved.

Why a Modular SCIF May Need to Move

The top two reasons why a modular SCIF may need to be relocated are:

1. Property ownership

2. Classified program length

Commercial companies that lease the property where their modular SCIF is first deployed may need to move it when their lease ends. As an example, one UMI client bought a modular SCIF knowing that their program was going to be moving. When the time came, UMI dismantled the SCIF, transported it to the client’s new location, and reinstalled it.

Some companies have lengthy leases with renewal options that make it less likely their modular SCIF will need to relocate. But in other cases, a company may install a modular SCIF without knowing whether they’ll be in the same location a couple of years down the line.

The amount of time a modular SCIF is needed also factors into the question of permanence. If the program a modular SCIF is designed to support has a specified end date, there may not be a need for that modular SCIF to stick around beyond that point.

If you no longer need your modular SCIF, it can be dismantled entirely or bought back by UMI to be repurposed and resold to another client. But if you do still need it—just in a different spot—UMI will work with you to handle the relocation process.

What Modular Building Relocation Requires

The level of difficulty involved in moving a modular building largely depends on how it was first installed.

Some of the more basic modular buildings can be moved quite easily. For example, a single-wide modular building with a block set foundation just needs to have axles attached if it is moving from one parking lot to another.

On the opposite end of the spectrum is a modular building with a pit-set foundation. (This is where the initial site prep team dug a few feet into the ground before placement, giving the building a more permanent appearance.) That modular building can only move to a site that also has a pit-set foundation. In order to relocate the building, it must be cut apart and craned offsite. From there, it’ll need to be placed on a lowboy trailer or have axles attached for transport.

Like non-SCIF modular buildings, modular SCIFs can be relocated. But RF shielding plays a role in the task’s complexity. Even more care is needed to move a modular SCIF to ensure that its RF shielding layers remain in pristine condition.

UMI Can Do It All

Though moving a facility is more difficult for some modular buildings than others, having enough time and resources makes it all possible.

With UMI, clients get flexibility and thoughtful proposals. Every client’s needs are different, and UMI creates solutions that address those needs. Contact UMI today to get a quote for your modular SCIF.

As is the case with traditional construction projects, a modular building can show wear and tear over time. The key to limiting this—and to extending your modular building’s lifetime—is routine maintenance.

Those who own or manage a modular building should schedule regular check-ups with maintenance managers to ensure that any irregularities are addressed quickly. Don’t worry about fixing anything yourself—that’s what the experts are for—and don’t assume someone else is already handling the problem.

If you notice anything amiss, your modular building maintenance manager should be your first call.

How Long Can Modular Buildings Last?

Simply put, there’s no cap on how long a modular building can last—as long as it is properly maintained.

Crystal Rodriguez, who oversees modular building maintenance at 20 properties as Modular Management Group’s fleet manager, says it’s possible for buildings that have been around for over a decade to look like they were just installed.

“The key to maintaining a modular building is ensuring that your building is in 100 percent condition,” she said.

Routine Maintenance Checks Are Key

Rodriguez recommends that clients schedule quarterly appointments with their modular building’s designated maintenance manager. As fleet manager, she attends annual appointments with each of her clients so that she can inspect the buildings in person.

Your modular building maintenance team should have a checklist for each quarterly and annual appointment. In addition to general interior and exterior assessments, that checklist includes more specific items like door handles, HVAC systems, roofs, plumbing, and more.

“We go through and mark off every single location, every single tile and mate line,” Rodriguez said. “Every corner of that building is inspected.”

Important Areas to Maintain

HVAC Systems Are Frequently Overlooked—But Shouldn’t Be

Keeping the HVAC system maintained is one of the top concerns for modular building maintenance managers. In addition to ensuring that air conditioners and heaters work when they’re needed, having well-maintained air systems helps clients avoid having to replace costly parts.

“The one key thing that I always recommend is: Ensure your HVAC systems are maintained,” Rodriguez urged, noting that this area of maintenance “often gets overlooked.”

In contrast to pricey replacement parts, properly maintaining HVAC systems is relatively affordable. “I see it as an investment in elongating the life of your building,” Rodriguez said. “If not maintained, you will start seeing signs of tear within one to two years.” While well-maintained HVAC units can typically last 10-15 years with minimal issues, systems that are not cared for “will start seeing signs of tear within one to two years,” she noted.

Your modular building maintenance manager will check the HVAC system during their quarterly visits. But there are ways that you can be proactive to ensure the system stays in top shape.

• First, you should clean or replace air filters regularly to prevent the system’s ducts from clogging. This may need to happen monthly, though your maintenance manager can specify how often air filter replacements will be needed for your building. How often air filters need to be replaced depends on your building’s environmental conditions—though in most cases, they should be changed quarterly. “I strongly recommend having a certified technician perform the replacement to ensure the correct filter size is set and to maintain accurate service records,” Rodriguez said, adding that having clear written documentation of any maintenance performed "is always best.”

• Clogs in the condensate drain can inhibit the HVAC system’s functionality. The system’s condensate drain should be checked regularly and cleaned when necessary.

• Make sure the condenser and evaporator coils are clear of dust and other debris. Dirty coils make it harder for the HVAC system to pull heat in—or out—of your building. For the same reason, make sure the system’s vents are kept clean and aren’t blocked by furniture or other objects.

Sudden changes to your building’s airflow, fluctuating temperatures, leaks, and even strange rattling noises could all be signs that your HVAC system needs attention. If you have questions related to regular upkeep, your modular building maintenance manager will have the answers.

A Flawed T-grid Will Have a Domino Effect

A modular building maintenance manager will pay close attention to a modular building’s T-Grids (the false ceiling framework that supports HVAC ductwork and hides it from view). Though proper installation plays a role in T-grid longevity, building shifts that occur naturally over time can also affect them.

If a T-grid looks like it’s on the verge of falling, it’s only a matter of time before another follows—and that presents a safety issue.

When you start seeing signs that your modular building may have shifted, it’s time to call your maintenance manager. Left unchecked, a problematic T-grid “could start affecting the function of the building within a year or two,” Rodriguez said.

Roof Leaks Are Bad News

Roof leaks are a modular building’s “worst enemy,” Rodriguez said, adding that investing in high-quality roofing materials is worth the splurge because it’ll save clients on repairs later.

Leaks are often caused by tears in the EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer), the long-lasting rubber roofing material used often for modular buildings because of its ability to withstand extreme weather and the ease with which it can be repaired. 

Tears in the EPDM—which is fitted on top of your building’s roof—can occur in a variety of scenarios, including when a person walks across it and nicks the material or when a screw is placed too deep. Improperly sealing a modular building’s mate lines—or even using too much material during the build phase—can also cause leaks later on.

Thicker EPDM membranes are thus preferable for buildings in areas that get a lot of precipitation, and tend to last longer than asphalt and felt materials.

For top-quality roofing, Rodriguez recommends selecting MuleHide products. In addition to the brand’s EPDM offerings, MuleHide’s JTS 1 (Joint and Termination Sealant) is a favorite among modular building maintenance managers because it works as a caulk on wood, concrete, and vinyl surfaces, sealing the building’s mate lines in a way that ensures no water can seep through.

“You could use it internally, externally,” Rodriguez said. “MuleHide is 100% the brand that I would recommend.”

Rodriguez also recommends keeping MuleHide’s Weathered Membrane Cleaner and Low VOC Primer on hand for cleaning and priming EPDM membranes.

So how can you tell if your modular building has a leak? The easiest way is to look for stained ceiling tiles. Once it’s obvious that a tile is discolored, the problem must be tackled immediately by properly patching the leak, working from the inside out.

But not all leaks are caused by roofing issues. Rodriguez recalls one building where the source of the problem was a busted PVC pipe, something she discovered by removing a stained ceiling tile. This is one of many reasons why it’s important to seek help from your modular building maintenance team instead of attempting to solve a problem yourself.

A Malfunctioning Door or Window Is a Red Flag

Sudden difficulties closing or opening doors or windows could indicate that your building has begun to shift. Your modular building maintenance manager should be checking every door and window during their scheduled appointments to make sure they are not jamming, sitting too high, or sitting too low.

Any of those changes will necessitate a trip under the building. If the module beneath the problematic door or window doesn’t appear to have moved, that door or window will be fixed and flagged for a closer inspection at the next quarterly maintenance appointment.

What Else Should You Keep an Eye On?

Regularly flushing toilets is one way to make sure that your modular building’s plumbing system is in good working order. Meanwhile, hot water delays could be a sign that your building’s heater needs to be flushed or replaced.

Depending on where your modular building is located, the weather may necessitate more upkeep. For example, a modular building in Florida may need special attention if the humidity causes excess water to gather on its roof.

Caulking doors and windows in humidity-prone areas can help prevent water from seeping in. In areas that get a lot of snow, maintenance teams will look for potential building shifts and issues that may arise with the HVAC systems.

Contact UMI today to start planning the modular building you’ll have for decades to come.

A lot of careful thought goes into a modular building’s design and build—but just as much planning goes into preparing its destination.

Knowing how to prep a site for a modular building is essential to its ability to operate there for as long as needed. A building’s intended location, use, duration of stay, and budget all factor into site preparation.

The process takes about two months for a typical 10,000 square foot building, according to David Cone, vice president of construction services at Modular Management Group. But timelines vary by building size.

Before the process can begin, it’s important to iron out every detail with the site prep team so that everyone involved is on the same page.

Coordinating With the Site Prep Team

The site prep team needs to know the client’s needs, preferences, and any materials they will provide right from the start.

During these initial conversations, the site prep team will learn what type of foundation the client’s modular building needs and whether they’ll provide utilities. The site prep team will also learn about the building’s slated location, access restrictions for delivery and installation, and local weather conditions.

Preparing the Area

Once on site, the prep team can begin clearing the area. On level ground, this process can be as simple as mowing grass and removing brush or debris.

In some cases, the site needs to be graded so that the modular building can sit flat once it has been installed. Leveling the ground is important—if not done properly, the building could start to tilt after installation, which might cause damage and allow moisture to seep in beneath it.

The extent of leveling that’s necessary is part of what the site prep team learns when client communications begin.

Laying the Foundation

A client may pick from a variety of foundation types based on their budget, the building’s intended use, and its planned site duration.

The Basic Option

The easiest site prep option involves placing ABS pads, which support the steel piers and blocking that ultimately hold up the building, on the ground. Concrete masonry units (CMUs) are then stacked on top. The CMUs can also be used to level the site if the topography is uneven.

An auger anchor is then driven into the ground. Later, a strap will connect the auger anchor’s hook to the building’s steel frame to hold it in place. Auger anchors are placed around the perimeter of the building, with the exact number and spacing needed depending on wind, seismic activity, and other environmental factors.

This type of foundation may not be optimal for a client seeking longevity. But for someone who only needs their building to stay in place for a couple of years? “You want to just set it right on the ground—that way, when you pull it out, you’ve got less material to take out,” Cone said.

Strip Footing Foundation

For clients seeking a sturdier base, a strip footing foundation may be worth considering. With this option, a concrete strip about 2 feet wide by 1 foot deep is poured around the perimeter and mate lines of the modular building, providing a “very level, hard place to set your pier on,” Cone explained. It requires less leveling and results in less post-installation settling in colder locations with freeze-thaw cycles.

A structural engineer will advise on the concrete strip’s placement. It’ll typically be poured 12 inches underground but may need to go as deep as 48 inches in colder areas with deep frost lines.

More Advanced Options

Some clients may prefer a complete concrete foundation, like the kind poured for conventional construction buildings. Many site prep teams prefer this option because it makes the installation process easier and is more stable. Concrete is also easier to keep dry—a bonus for site prep teams.

"If the customer is intending on a building to be there for 10-plus, 20-plus years, we would always recommend, at a minimum, a strip footing foundation or a concrete slab—just to give it that longevity,” Cone said.

Others may prefer a pit-set foundation, in which the site prep team digs about 3 feet into the ground so that the modular building can be accessed at grade, giving it a more permanent appearance.

So which option is best? “It really does come down to the dollars and what the customer’s goal is,” Cone said.

Timeline 

Strip footing and concrete slab foundations are about 20% faster to prepare than the basic foundation option, which requires more time for ground leveling.

Cost 

More robust foundation options tend to come at a higher price. The strip footing foundation option typically adds about 10% to the project’s overall cost, while a concrete slab foundation will add closer to 20%.

Arranging for Utilities

The modular building’s utilities will either be managed by the site prep team or the client—another decision that must be made before site preparation begins to avoid delays later on.

If the site prep team is responsible for the utilities, they first need to locate the fire line, sewer line, and nearest power source. They also must determine how far the connection points are and what needs to happen to make those connections. The site team often coordinates specific utility needs through hired vendors.

If the client handles the utilities, the site prep team will only be responsible for providing the connection points and a list of materials—like the water line or transformer sizes—required to serve the building.

Preparing for Delivery

Identifying site access limitations—including physical constraints and gate access points—early is essential. Without understanding what limitations exist, it will be difficult for the site prep team to ensure that they have the equipment needed to place the building once it arrives. If they don’t, there will be timing and cost implications.

Height and width constraints can present big challenges—and may ultimately impact the building’s design. Bridges or gates that are on or near the site could introduce these kinds of limitations, as the modular building ultimately needs to be moved past these barriers to reach its destination. “That’s all analysis that we do at the front end,” Cone said.

The site prep team will map out the best route for transporting the modular building. If the space is tight, a crane may be needed to lift and place it.

How Site Prep Differs for Residential and Commercial Modulars

The steps involved with preparing a residential modular building site tend to be simple. This is because the more basic foundation option is typically used, with no concrete pouring involved.

Site prep for commercial modular buildings is more complicated because site prep teams provide more robust skirting detail to close off the building’s crawl space. They also may add venting to keep that crawl space dry and do heat tracing to keep water lines from freezing.

The Biggest Mistake

Many errors can be avoided by ensuring clear client-site prep team communication. The site superintendent is on site from the very beginning, and the prep team in turn oversees all subcontractors through installation.

But it’s most important to prevent water from touching the modular building. To avoid this, it’s essential that the site be leveled and graded to reroute any positive drainage.

“That’s really the big thing—especially when we're doing a strip footing foundation or concrete slab foundation,” Cone explained. Site prep teams typically grade sites so that the ABS pads are placed slightly higher on the ground, driving positive drainage away from where the building will sit.

Skipping this preventative step can result in moisture gathering beneath the building in damp or cold weather, which can turn into mold, mildew, and rot. 

“The death of a modular building is that water intrusion,” Cone said. “That’s really the challenge with modular: keeping it dry.”

Ready to get started? Contact Universal Modular today to get a quote for your modular building.

Most modular construction projects are built with combustible materials. This is because combustible materials—like wood, the default for standard modular projects—are typically cheaper and more convenient to work with.

But there are benefits to using non-combustible materials, particularly when it comes to safety and code compliance. The purpose of using non-combustible materials is to lower the risk of fire and its speed of spread beyond the sprinklers and alarms used in traditional modular builds. The increased fire resistance means there are fewer operational restrictions for non-combustible modular buildings—and with more factories starting to offer these materials, it’s becoming easier to make them.

Opting to construct with non-combustible materials will impact a project’s cost and build time, and clients should be aware that building codes differ at the local, state, and international levels. That’s why it’s important to seek expert advice before starting on a new project, according to Becca Palluth, the vice president of design services at Modular Management Group.

Materials Used in Non-Combustible Builds

“When you go non-combustible, everything becomes metal or a composite plastic material that is non-combustible,” Palluth said. “It means the structure of the building—instead of it being wood—becomes steel columns and light-gauge metal framing, which is very typical in ground-up construction and conventional construction but is atypical for modular.”

In terms of external customization, there are fewer restrictions for building finishes, as most finishes used by modular construction companies are already non-combustible.

Depending on which codes need to be met, a client may opt to use some non-combustible materials without making their project 100% non-combustible. In these cases, fire-retardant plywood or vinyl may be used. Other wood substrates like Gypsum board have varying fire ratings and could also be incorporated.

But if a modular building is to be purely non-combustible, “that goes down to every layer of the building—of which there are many,” Palluth said.

Restrictions Involved With Combustible Material Use

The two main restrictions that come with using combustible materials concern building size and location. The size of a combustible modular building is “restricted to a certain equation based on occupancy and distance from other buildings,” Palluth explained—and that distance is also restricted.

For example, a combustible modular can’t be placed within a foot or two of an existing facility because it inherently brings a risk of combustion. It can’t be placed inside an existing facility for the same reason.

But this doesn’t mean combustible modular buildings will go out of style.

“I certainly think conventional wood combustible construction is always going to have its place in the modular world,” Palluth said. “I do think we're going to see more and more non-combustible, especially in government—and particularly in commercial—work.”

Projects That Benefit From Non-Combustible Materials

Unlike combustible builds, non-combustible modular buildings can be placed inside existing facilities. They can also be placed adjacent to different kinds of buildings, regardless of their occupancy type, because non-combustible materials present less safety risk.

Projects intended for placement at airports are typically made with non-combustible materials, as airports tend to have stricter codes for modular facilities. Non-combustible materials may also be preferable for projects intended to house data centers. This is because there are “higher restrictions or expectations in a data center for controlling against fire,” Palluth said.

“Data and networks are very valuable—and the minute they're damaged, your whole productivity goes down, whether you're the federal government running missions or you're a school and your internet is destroyed,” Palluth explained. “It makes sense that non-combustible construction could be the future of a lot of this.”

How Code Restrictions Vary

In addition to the International Building Code, the International Fire Code, and National Fire Protection Agency codes, modular buildings must meet the requirements spelled out in other federal and state codes, some of which limit combustible material use. These codes vary by location. In California, for example, seismic design plays a role in some amendment codes due to earthquake concerns in the state.

Some cities, towns, and high-traffic locations like airports may have their own codes as well, which is why it’s vital for clients to consult with experts to make sure their project meets every requirement.

Licensed architects like Palluth are familiar with what these requirements entail. “We just need to make sure we’re layering those things together to be sure we’re complying with all of those codes,” she said.

Project Timeline Impacts

Because combustible materials are used by default in modular buildings, switching to non-combustible materials requires a factory to reset its tooling and manufacturing components to ensure that it’s meeting all of a project’s required codes. Palluth compares the shift to an automobile assembly line that suddenly needs to swap in a new steering wheel. Though doable, it takes time for that assembly line to fall into a new rhythm.

For factories that don’t ordinarily work with non-combustible materials, “the timeline for fabrication can go up 1.5 times, because the first few will take longer to build,” Palluth said.

There are, however, a growing number of factories that work with non-combustible materials often and are capable of tackling non-combustible projects with fewer delays.

Cost Differences

The price tag for a non-combustible modular building can be 1.3 to 1.5 times that of a combustible modular building because of the extra time required for the build and the more costly and specialized materials that must be used.

The actual cost of a modular project will depend on several factors, including the materials used, its size—with price per square foot dropping the larger the building needs to be—and the distance it needs to travel to reach its final destination.

Are you ready to explore non-combustible options for your modular building? Reach out to UMI today to get a quote.

Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIFs) are very different from typical construction projects, which means designing and fabricating them can get tricky.

Luckily, most of the mistakes that arise when SCIF construction requirements are overlooked can be avoided when subject matter experts are brought in to guide the process. This knowledge is particularly valuable during the initial design phase, when experts’ understanding of Intelligence Community Directive (ICD) 705 design requirements can help clients avoid costly errors.

Generally speaking, knowing what your facility’s technical needs are and practicing good communication will help you meet all SCIF design requirements. But it’s also beneficial to be aware of the common mistakes made along the way—and to learn how to avoid them.

These are the top five mistakes made in SCIF design, according to ICD 705 expert Daniel Garcia.

SCIF Design Mistake 1: Lack of Detail

Before the design process can begin, a client must be assigned an Accrediting Official (AO), who will provide them with their facility’s SCIF design requirements. These requirements, which are spelled out in the ICD 705, can vary from one project to the next and thus must be obtained prior to the design phase.

The ICD 705 design requirements range from alarm systems and other basic security needs to more complex essentials, such as acoustic protection and radio frequency (RF) shielding levels. Because these requirements will need to be built into the facility, they must be reflected in the SCIF design plans.

Garcia, a managing partner at Precision Security Consulting, said a lack of information is the top mistake he sees in the SCIF design process.

“Make sure that there’s enough detail, particularly for the ICD 705 features of work,” he advised. For example, every single wall penetration detail needs to be incorporated in the design and show the necessary detail that it complies with the physical hardening, acoustic, and TEMPEST requirements so that the penetrations are constructed and installed for optimal performance.  

SCIF Design Mistake 2: Overlooking AO, CTTA Requirements

Part of the SCIF design process involves creating a TEMPEST Checklist (TEMPEST refers to the investigation, research, and control of potentially compromising emanations from electronic devices), a Transportation Security Plan (TSP), and a Construction Security Plan (CSP). All three elements must be reviewed and approved by the AO and the Certified TEMPEST Technical Authority (CTTA).

Sometimes, the AO or CTTA will have feedback that must be incorporated. Forgetting to ask for or implement this feedback is another big mistake that Garcia sees when he is brought in as an ICD 705 expert. Though this is not a design mistake per se, it occurs often during the design phase.

The SCIF “may not be accredited if you don’t include the AO’s and the CTTA’s specific SCIF design requirements,” he warned.

SCIF Design Mistake 3: SCIF Identification on Design Documents

Another “pretty common” mistake Garcia sees during the design process is identifying the facility’s intended location and labeling it as a SCIF. “That’s a big no-no,” he said.

Since these facilities are built for the handling or storage of sensitive information, including this kind of location information in the design or construction documents can pose a threat to the space’s security.

“I see it happen all the time where, somewhere on the design, somebody says ‘SCIF room’ or ‘waveguide for the SCIF,’” Garcia said. “You’re not supposed to have anywhere in the construction documents that says it’s a SCIF.”

Instead, you could use a term such as “Controlled Area” or create a designated term that you use internally, such as “Green Room.” 

SCIF Design Mistake 4: Forgoing Subject Matter Experts

Neglecting to lean on subject matter experts while assessing your SCIF construction requirements can also pose a threat to accreditation later.

“There have been times when I’ve been brought in after design, where the design did not utilize subject matter experts,” Garcia said. “When I reviewed the design documents, I saw all kinds of problems with it.” If not done correctly the first time, fixing these mistakes to meet all the SCIF design requirements will cost you time and money, he added.

Though it may seem like an obvious move to request expert advice prior to the design phase, this mistake is actually quite common due to how relatively rare SCIF construction is. “A lot of design companies, general contractors—they approach these projects as if they are just typical commercial construction projects,” Garcia said. But from a SCIF’s RF shielding requirements to its acoustic protection needs and more, “ICD 705 has some unique features and unique requirements.”

If a client relies solely on design and construction professionals who don’t have experience with SCIFs, the facility’s resulting design plan may not include all of its specified SCIF design requirements. Even if it does, subject matter experts are essential to ensuring that all of those unique elements “actually perform in the real world once they’re installed,” Garcia said.

SCIF Design Mistake 5: Forgetting to Factor in the AO’s Review Process

The AO must review the design team’s plans—and all revisions to those plans—to make sure that all SCIF design requirements are met before fabrication or construction can begin. But there is no guarantee that your AO will be able to provide feedback right away—and depending on how large their workload is, it could take months to receive their feedback.

“Sometimes that review period is much longer than anticipated,” Garcia warned.

Forgetting to submit design plans to the AO or neglecting to account for possible delays while waiting for the AO’s approval are mistakes that can throw off the timeline for your SCIF’s build. While the AO must be involved in the process to review all design milestones, the most important one they must approve before fabrication can begin is the final design plan.

“During the design phase scheduling, the project delivery team needs to try to schedule in the AO’s review period so that it can account for their time involved in reviewing it, so that the overall schedule isn’t impacted,” Garcia said.

Clients “would do themselves a favor if they tried to anticipate some of that review period time by the AO.”

Ready to start the SCIF design process? Contact UMI, who uses over 30 years of ICD 705 experience to design your modular SCIF right from the beginning.

The Accrediting Official (AO) for a Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF) might require you to have a Transportation Security Plan (TSP) in place before the facility moves to a new location. Though typically used for facilities that are fabricated in one place before they are transported to their final destination, like modular SCIFs or container SCIFs, a TSP is also necessary if the project that necessitated the SCIF moves—even if that move is just down the street.

SCIF requirements for transport are typically included in the Construction Security Plan (CSP), which the Intelligence Community Directive (ICD) 705 mandates. The SCIF Transportation Security Plan must be reviewed and approved by the SCIF’s assigned AO.

The main purpose of the TSP is to document “how the asset is going to get from Point A to Point B” and “how it’s going to have its security maintained while it’s out on the road,” explained Daniel Garcia, a managing partner at Precision Security Consulting who consults on SCIF design, construction, and accreditation. Any specific security or personnel requirements identified by the AO for the transportation phase of the project “would need to get documented in the Transportation Security Plan.”

Who Writes the TSP—and When?

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to TSP writing. “Every project is assessed for security vulnerabilities and evaluated with the project's own set of circumstances in mind,” Garcia said, “so there could be security requirements that are different from one project to another.” That’s why it’s essential to have an experienced Site Security Manager (SSM) at the helm of the project.

It is the SSM’s responsibility to write the TSP and communicate any revisions to the AO. The SSM may need assistance drafting the document as the company in charge of the SCIF’s transport provides information on how and when it will be moved. But because the TSP is part of the CSP, it is “under the purview of the Site Security Manager to draft, maintain, and ensure its enforcement,” Garcia said.

Exactly when the TSP is written varies, but the process typically begins when the SSM identifies which transportation company will be moving the SCIF.

“Typically, the asset is still under construction—and maybe hypothetically, it could be a month or a few weeks out from being done,” Garcia said. “Then you would start getting that information from the transportation company and then develop your TSP, and then submit that to the AO for their review and see if they have any feedback.”

In some cases, the TSP is developed in iterations, with early drafts missing large chunks of information that are filled in later. “It’s always a safe bet” to submit those drafts to the AO, Garcia said, though feedback for each version isn’t guaranteed.

“I would generally recommend communicating any of that stuff to the AO—and that’s the responsibility of the Site Security Manager,” he said.

What Information Must Be Included?

The main objective of the TSP is to outline how the SCIF will get from its starting point to its destination. But the TSP must also identify which company will be responsible for the SCIF’s transport, how long the trip will take, what security measures will be in place, and how to contact the personnel who will be involved in the move.

The transportation company will typically be required to specify what route it’ll take—and on what timeline—while moving the SCIF. The more details it can provide about the highways and exits that will be used, as well as any anticipated pauses for the driver to recharge at rest stops, the better.

In some cases, there may be restrictions regarding who can be involved in the SCIF’s transport. The SCIF requirements set out in the ICD 705 say that the parties involved in a SCIF must be U.S.-owned companies that use U.S. citizens or U.S. persons, and “some projects may have a U.S. citizens only requirement,” Garcia said. “In that case, the transportation company would need to be a U.S.-owned company using U.S. citizen personnel.” 

Any personnel requirements would be ”identified at the very beginning of the project,” Garcia said. “The AO would make that determination, and that’s something that is written into the Construction Security Plan.”

As far as security during the trip goes, “‘secure’ may just mean there’s some way of identifying if it has been tampered with,” Garcia explained. In some cases, doors and other openings may have tamper seals applied so that the SSM can later determine whether anyone attempted to break in. Tarps or plastic may also be used to cover the modular or container facilities as they’re being transported. “It’s not like that’s going to keep somebody from going in it if they wanted to,” Garcia said, “but you would be able to identify if somebody did go in if it’s torn or cut open.”

What If Transport Doesn’t Go As Planned?

Once the Transportation Security Plan is approved, it must be followed to the letter—or as close to the plan as possible. Any changes must be documented and sent to the AO. Last-minute changes should be avoided but may be necessary if there are unexpected route or timeline interruptions.

“If the plan has any type of deviation, then the transportation company—or whoever’s transporting that asset—would need to make sure that they notify the Site Security Manager, who can then document the deviation and identify if that’s going to be a problem,” Garcia explained.

What Happens When the SCIF Arrives?

The final step of the TSP involves the SSM officially receiving the SCIF when it arrives at its final destination. Before the SCIF can be installed, the SSM must assess it to check for attempted security breaches.

“If there are tamper seals, they’re checking those tamper seals, walking around and just seeing if they can visually observe any penetration attempts or break-in attempts,” Garcia said. If the modular or container facility instead arrives covered in a tarp or plastic, the SSM will similarly look for signs that those materials have been torn or cut.

Once the SSM has determined that no security breach occurred, the SCIF’s installation can begin.

Are you in need of a SCIF Transportation Security Plan? Contact UMI, who takes care of the whole TSP so you don't have to.

Building a Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF) costs time and money—and if it isn’t done correctly, there is no guarantee that those investments will result in an accredited facility. A SCIF must get accredited before it can become operational.

The path to SCIF accreditation is spelled out in the Intelligence Community Directive (ICD) 705, a government document that identifies the construction and security qualifications a SCIF must meet. Since SCIFs are so different from typical construction projects—and are built relatively infrequently—it can be easy to make mistakes.

In some cases, accreditation errors occur in the rush to win a government contract. A lack of awareness about updates to accreditation requirements can also pose challenges.

“When you're building a secure facility, there's a lot that goes on,” said Phil Chance, a managing partner at Precision Security Consulting who consults on SCIF accreditation. “There are key things where, if you don’t do them, you’re going to be off track.”

Before you embark on a new project, familiarize yourself with the top five errors made in the SCIF accreditation process—and find out how to avoid them.

SCIF Accreditation Error 1: Lacking Justification for a Facility

It starts at the beginning: You need a reason to build a SCIF. That reason can’t be the anticipation of a government contract; in most cases, the contract must be secured before you can begin.

Once a defense contractor wins a project, they will receive a Department of Defense Contract Security Classification Specification (aka DD Form 254), which will enable them to be assigned an accreditation official (AO) to help guide them through the SCIF accreditation process.

Some clients make this major error because they know they’ll need a SCIF quickly if they land a contract—and it takes at least several months to build a new one. “You’re going to want it as soon as possible, and you're going to want to just do it before you have an accrediting official,” Chance said. “But you can’t appropriately get one accredited unless you first have proper justification and an accrediting official.”

Starting to build a SCIF before receiving a DD Form 254 is one of the two most common mistakes clients make, Chance noted.

SCIF Accreditation Error 2: Starting Without an Accrediting Official

The other most common mistake is starting a SCIF design before knowing who the AO will be. The AO, who should be assigned at the beginning of a construction project—even before design starts—is responsible for providing the accreditation and ensuring compliance with the ICD 705 all the way through the process.

The AO should be brought into the process “as soon as the need for a SCIF or SAPF (Special Access Program Facility) is known,” Chance said.

A Site Security Manager (SSM) will often join the project first to start gathering documentation for the AO to review. Both the AO and SSM should be on board to iron out a Construction Security Plan (CSP) before the design process can begin.

“In the ideal situation, you have the AO right away and have had initial conversations about your concepts and project before you even start concept development,” Chance said.

SCIF Accreditation Error 3: Assembling a Lackluster Project Team

Building a SCIF isn’t like building a typical construction project—and you need a team that understands the differences. Picking an experienced SSM helps.

The ideal SSM is someone with a working knowledge of construction who also has security and ICD 705 expertise. As a communicator, they need to be strong, dependable, and capable of keeping the AO updated on the SCIF’s path toward accreditation.

“Not having a qualified SSM would be a huge mistake,” Chance said. It’s best to find your SSM as early as possible so that they can flag potential accreditation errors from the start, he added.

If you don’t have an expert SSM, you’ll need to make up for it by employing consultants and ensuring the rest of your team does have experience building SCIFs. For example, you should carefully review qualifications and references when selecting a contractor to make sure each candidate has a high-quality construction background. When picking an architect, you should make sure that your top candidate has experience with SCIF design and understands the nuances between ICD 705 and typical commercial design and construction.

The architect selection in particular is “an instance where I would always recommend a consultant come in and make sure that everything's working,” Chance said.

Having a less experienced SSM, contractor, architect, or other team member can cause problems, he explained. “Usually those don’t lead to not getting accredited, but it delays the project—and then it’s more expensive.”

SCIF Accreditation Error 4: Overlooking the TCR

TEMPEST (the term used in reference to the investigation, research, and control of potentially compromising emanations that come from electronic devices) requirements differ from one SCIF to the next. Forgetting to ask what those requirements are before the design phase can lead to significant delays and added costs.

Every project needs a TEMPEST Countermeasures Review (TCR), a document that spells out which radio frequency (RF) shielding level the SCIF will need. A Certified TEMPEST Technical Authority (CTTA) will give the TCR to your assigned AO, who will in turn share it with your SSM.

Knowing what your project’s RF shielding requirements are is particularly important, as these security mitigations dictate what materials your SCIF needs and how it must be designed and built.

“A lot of people miss that step,” Chance said, noting that starting without a TCR can cause costly accreditation delays “until they make those improvements.”

“If you find out late, and then you have to order something, and then it takes half of a year to get it—that’s going to be a problem for you.”

SCIF Accreditation Error 5: Lacking Familiarity With the Accreditation Process

Another reason to pick an experienced SSM? They’ll know what accreditation involves, and how to document the build to ensure that your SCIF checks all the boxes.

Over the course of the project, the SSM needs to obtain several documents—including the CSP, Fixed Facility Checklist (FFC), TCR, and more—and follow the directions outlined within each. The SSM also needs to make sure that every step of the process is meticulously documented.

“That's why it's key to have a good SSM: They need to know what those documents are at the beginning so that they can capture what they need to the whole time,” Chance said. That way, when the SSM submits all materials to the AO for accreditation consideration, “they have everything they need that proves, ‘We did it the right way.’”

Ready to get started? Contact Universal Modular, Inc., who has extensive experience in SCIF/SAPF construction and guarantees your SCIF will be accredited.

When it comes to building SCIFs (Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities), the importance of meeting all security requirements cannot be overstated. For mobile and modular SCIFs, these requirements are spelled out in the Intelligence Community Directive (ICD) 705, a document that outlines the technical specifications for the construction, accreditation, and maintenance of SCIFs.

While the rules can be a bit looser for temporary facilities (T-SCIFs), the mobile and modular SCIFs that Universal Modular Inc. (UMI) fabricates meet the same high-level accreditation requirements as fixed facilities that handle sensitive information—with no exceptions.

What Is ICD 705?

Before fabrication of a SCIF can begin, a client needs to obtain the ICD 705 technical requirements for their project. These requirements will depend upon several factors, including the nature of the project, where it will operate, and who will be working within or in close proximity to the SCIF.

While each SCIF’s physical and electronic security needs are different, one of the purposes of the ICD 705 is to set a standard for facilities that handle sensitive information. These requirements range from more obvious security mitigations like alarm systems to radio frequency (RF) shielding and acoustic protection levels.

A client won’t know what their ICD 705 requirements will be until their project has been issued a Department of Defense Contract Security Classification Specification (DD Form 254). They will then be assigned an accrediting official (AO), who will provide the ICD 705 requirements specific to the secure facility. Once fabrication is complete, the AO will make an accreditation decision based on whether the SCIF meets all requirements.

Follow the Process

There exists a detailed process for fabricating SCIFs safely and securely—and it’s vital to follow that process from start to finish so that the facility is completed on time and on budget.

The Design Stage

The process starts with the facility’s design plan. It’s at this early point when TEMPEST—the term used in reference to the investigation, research, and control of potentially compromising emanations from electronic devices—becomes part of the conversation. The design team will pull together a TEMPEST checklist (which will include RF shielding requirements) in addition to a Transportation Security Plan (TSP) and Construction Security Plan (CSP).

The AO and the Certified TEMPEST Technical Authority (CTTA) must review the TEMPEST checklist, TSP, and CSP before fabrication can begin. The CTTA will also, at this time, issue a TEMPEST Countermeasures Review (TCR) outlining the specific countermeasures required for your project. Additionally, if the AO or CTTA have feedback, any changes need to be worked into the design and reviewed again before the start of fabrication.

Documentation Is Essential

Once fabrication is underway, every step of the build must be documented—just as with standard construction projects. Hundreds, sometimes thousands, of photos will be taken throughout fabrication and later submitted to the AO, who will use the images to see exactly how the facility came together from its factory beginnings to its placement onsite.

The TSP comes into play once it is time for the SCIF to be moved to its designated end location—and the level of security only rises upon its arrival. In addition to closely following the CSP while mating the SCIF’s wall sections, finalizing the data communications and security systems, and addressing other lingering fabrication needs, UMI enlists the skills and expertise of U.S. citizen workers only onsite for security purposes.

Upon completion, the facility’s Final Fixed Facility Checklist (FFC) will be sent to the client, who must then forward it to their AO. The AO will then visit the site to make their accreditation decision.

Modular SCIFs vs. Fixed Facilities

Fabrication primarily occurs in a factory before a modular SCIF is transported to its designated site. This is the only real difference between a modular SCIF and a traditional construction project. Functionally speaking, modular SCIFs meet all of the same acoustic, RF shielding, control protection, and documentation requirements as fixed facilities.

Why Does Compliance Matter?

Put simply: Compliance matters because if you don’t get accreditation, the program cannot operate.

Clients who don’t follow the process run the risk of winding up with a SCIF that does not meet its security requirements—and that could compromise national security. Cutting corners also has time and cost implications.

For example, if a SCIF’s wall is below its required sound transmission class (STC) level to the point where people talking inside can easily be overheard by those outside, that’s a real threat to the facility’s security. There are mitigations for everything—in this example, a costly sound masking system could be installed to address the issue. But this would delay accreditation, require approval from the AO, and likely result in a less enjoyable work environment.

To avoid costly and timely mitigations, all steps during fabrication need to be documented and completed according to the plans created during the initial design phase. Cutting a corner here or there won’t help—it’ll just delay the process and increase the cost.

Common Challenges

Ensuring that the SCIF is built properly is the most crucial part of ICD 705 compliance. The smallest details, down to things like the acoustic caulking below the bottom wall plates, are critical so that every piece of the puzzle can be installed correctly to meet all security requirements. This is where photo documentation is vital, and it creates accountability during the fabrication process. Though time-consuming, meticulous documentation is the most efficient way to reach the finish line.

Last-minute changes also pose budget and timeline challenges. If a client wants to rework part of their SCIF’s design or security plan, all changes must first be submitted to the AO for approval—and all progress halts in the meantime. Clients should be 100% sure about their SCIF’s needs from the start to avoid extra costs and delays.

Popular Shortcut Requests

“Can I just buy a SCIF and get it accredited later?”

This request is made often—typically by clients who haven’t yet secured their anticipated program or been issued a DD Form 254—but it’s not a good idea.

Clients must receive their DD Form 254 before an AO can be assigned. To stay ICD 705 compliant, the SCIF’s design and security plans must be approved by the AO before fabrication can begin. The government has no obligation to accredit a facility if its assigned AO does not first give it the green light for fabrication.

Incomplete documentation is another shortcut that can cost time and money. While it may seem like it would save time to skip taking some of the photos required during fabrication, documentation needs to be complete for the AO’s review. Missing photos indicate proof is missing of at least part of the SCIF’s build. If that occurs, the AO may request partial deconstruction to ensure the SCIF was put together properly—and that will cost time and money.

If you’re planning to build a modular SCIF, download our Modular SCIF Planning Worksheet to make sure your project is planned properly from the beginning. If you want to make sure your modular SCIF project is ICD 705-compliant the first time, contact us today.

One of the benefits of having a mobile SCIF (Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility) is that when a client’s project or program relocates, their secure facility can tag along. Practically speaking, it is easy to move a mobile SCIF—it’s the preparation for the move that can be time consuming.

The mobile SCIF’s new site must be ready before it arrives, and transportation needs to be arranged in advance to physically move it. Security cannot be compromised during the move, as any blip in security could present bad actors with an opportunity to compromise the facility.

Though this may sound like a lot to keep track of, planning ahead can save clients time and stress—and Universal Modular Inc. (UMI) can help.

When Do Mobile SCIFs Need to Move?

Both commercial and government clients may encounter circumstances in which their mobile SCIF needs to move. For commercial clients, an expiring building lease could be the motivating factor driving a mobile SCIF’s relocation. For government clients, a move might be necessary when the program using the SCIF moves from one military installation to another, or expands in a way that requires the entire operation to relocate.

As an example, U.S. military pilots who carry out classified flights need to conduct their mission planning, briefing, and debriefing inside a SCIF for security purposes. Because they often travel around the country completing exercises in different locations, they need a SCIF that can travel with them so that they are never lacking a secure space in which to conduct mission-related business.

While a typical mobile SCIF can meet these needs, UMI’s Joint Airlift Micro SCIF (JAMS) is best equipped to do so, as the facility is fully ICD 705 compliant, easily transportable, and can be operational in about 10 minutes.

Preparing to Move a Mobile SCIF

The same preparation is required whether a client is moving their mobile SCIF down the street or across the country. The very first thing a client must do is notify their accrediting official of the anticipated move. The accrediting official will need to review and approve a client-submitted transportation security plan, which should explain who will be moving the facility, how it is being transported, and exactly how the SCIF will be controlled over the course of the move.

It is essential that the client knows and clearly communicates to their accrediting official what the mobile SCIF’s chain of custody will be as it travels from its original location to its final destination. Any individual involved with transporting a mobile SCIF must be a U.S. citizen, and, in some cases, may need to pass a background check.

A client should create their transportation security plan and send it to their accrediting official several months before they need their mobile SCIF moved. The amount of time it takes to get a plan approved depends upon the accrediting official’s workload and availability.

The U.S. Department of Defense tends to have more flexibility when it comes to the planning process, as some mobile SCIFs used by the military have an onsite security officer who can quickly review and approve a transportation security plan. These onsite security officers understand what the chain of custody needs to be and can even send an armed guard to accompany a SCIF on its journey.

While the planning process can be more regimented for nonmilitary clients, everyone who needs to move a mobile SCIF should be following procedure to ensure that their facility’s security is not compromised as it travels to its new destination.

What the Move Will Involve

Regulations aside, physically moving a mobile SCIF is fairly simple. After the power and communications systems have been disconnected, a forklift can pick up the mobile SCIF and place it on a truck, which will drive the facility to its new location. Upon arrival, the SCIF will once again be picked up with a forklift and set into place, after which the power and communications systems can be reconnected. The accrediting official will need to re-accredit the facility once it is fully operational.

Moving a traditional mobile SCIF is easy—but moving a JAMS facility is even easier. Due to its small size (each unit is 108” by 88” by 90”, with about 40 usable square feet), a JAMS unit weighs under 4,400 pounds and can be easily moved with a small forklift. Every JAMS facility meets or exceeds all ICD 705 requirements, and it can be deployed within about 10 minutes of arriving at a new location.

Why Does Moving a Mobile SCIF Require so Much Preparation?

Before a mobile SCIF is relocated, it is vital to ensure that its new location is ready to receive it. Does the new location need a new foundation poured? Will the mobile SCIF be moving into a warehouse, or will it need wood blocking so that it can be dropped off in the middle of a desert for training exercises?

This is why preparing for the move is so important: The relocation plan needs to be established well before transport so that those getting the new site ready have everything they need to get the mobile SCIF operational as quickly as possible once it arrives. Though any client in need of moving a typical mobile SCIF faces these concerns, the situation is different with JAMS facilities because the units can be simply dropped off at a new location—no site preparation necessary.

To learn more or to get started on a quote, reach out to us.

Bad actors have historically posed lower threat levels in the continental U.S. But in recent years, there has been a shift as America’s adversaries and their attack methods have grown more sophisticated. Amid this higher threat level, it is more important than ever before that officials who engage with classified information do so in secure environments.

For elected officials whose work involves matters of national security, it’s essential that they have the ability to review sensitive communications quickly and without risking breaches. Their work doesn’t stop at the office, which means they need a way to securely access sensitive information even while at home. Accessing classified information outside of a secure space is not worth the risk—and no, speaking quietly doesn’t qualify as a form of high security

So how can elected officials ensure that they have the setup they need at home? Building SCIFs (Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities) inside their houses is one answer, though this solution is rarely implemented because it can be costly and disruptive. Luckily, there is now another option that is less invasive, easily transportable, and meets all ICD 705 requirements: the Joint Airlift Micro SCIF (JAMS), a product that didn’t exist prior to January 2025.

The Problems With Building Residential SCIFs

Many elected officials—including governors, select U.S. senators, and some members of Congress—conduct work that requires access to classified information about potential threats at the local, national, and international levels. Since that information can arrive at any time of day or night with little or no notice, those without residential SCIFs often have to choose between risking security to access updates or waiting until they travel to a secure facility to receive the latest intel.

Deciding to build a residential SCIF is like embarking on a renovation project: It’ll take time, and as the project is underway, there will be disruption to home life, loss of square footage, and lots of dust. Making this kind of permanent change to a home is a huge commitment for elected officials who have no way of knowing for sure if they’ll win their next election, or how long they’ll serve on committees that require them to engage with sensitive information. SCIFs built into private residences also bring up complicated questions about how they are to be funded, and to what extent (if at all) the government will provide construction cost reimbursement.

An Easy Solution to Residential SCIFs

For governors, senators, and other elected officials who need an ICD 705–compliant facility in or near their homes, the answer is simple: JAMS. Introduced earlier this year by Universal Modular Inc. (UMI) in partnership with Highland Engineering, Inc., JAMS is a fully accreditable SCIF that can be transported easily—and, since each unit is roughly the size of a two-person sauna, it’s small enough to fit inside a residential garage.

The government can own or lease a JAMS facility and relocate it as needed. This means that if someone is elected to a position in which they need the ability to access secure materials in their home, the government can buy a JAMS unit and have it delivered to their residence. And if that official loses their committee assignment or their next election? The JAMS facility can be easily relocated to the home of their replacement, since it never needs to be physically affixed to any private residence.

Opting for a JAMS facility instead of building a SCIF inside a home avoids the hassle of construction and quashes the debate over who will cover the associated costs. It also eliminates the delays involved with waiting for a residential SCIF to be built—in fact, once a JAMS facility has been delivered, it can be operational in just 10 minutes.

In addition to their high portability, JAMS units are ATTLA-certified for air transport and meet all ICD 705 requirements. JAMS can achieve over 100dB of radio frequency (RF) shielding and acoustic protection levels of sound transmission class (STC) 50 without sound masking—marks that are extremely difficult to reach. Each JAMS facility houses a mini split HVAC and is outfitted with all necessary data and communications wiring.

 Every JAMS unit weighs under 4,400 pounds (which means moving one only requires the use of a small forklift) and is 108” by 88” by 90” in size (which totals about 40 usable square feet, or enough space to fit two small workstations).

UMI can handle the transportation and redeployment of JAMS facilities, and they can maintain and store them when they are not in use. If you or someone you know has a need for a residential SCIF and is interested in learning about an alternative that meets all ICD 705 requirements, reach out to us to learn more about JAMS or to get started on a quote.

Many modular SCIFs (Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities) require mitigations to block unwanted digital emanations, prohibiting bad actors from gaining access to the classified materials contained inside.

TEMPEST, the term used in reference to the investigation, research, and control of potentially compromising emanations that come from electronic devices, is a major focus for those involved in the fabrication of secure facilities, with RF (radio frequency) shielding serving as the primary component of TEMPEST mitigations.

The level of modular RF shielding needed varies from one facility to the next. But every project that requires RF shielding can benefit from experts who know how to install these protective elements correctly so that security can be maintained, and unexpected costs and fabrication delays can be avoided.

Essentially, if you’re missing even one component of the system, the system fails for what you’re trying to achieve.

Identify your RF shielding needs early

A Certified TEMPEST Technical Authority (CTTA) will determine which RF shielding level a facility requires based on its security needs. This protection level, which can range from 0 to 80 decibels (dB) in a modular SCIF, will be spelled out in a TEMPEST Countermeasures Review (TCR). From the CTTA through the design team and installation crew, many people are responsible for making sure RF shielding requirements are met.

It's essential for UMI to know what RF shielding level is needed before a project's design can be completed. Once you share what your project's RF shielding requirement is, UMI can build the system to meet those needs.

Different emanation protection levels require different materials and installation methods. Aluminum foil—a material about four times the thickness of the foil used in cooking—is the most common material used in modular RF shielding, though sheet aluminum and sheet steel are also used often. Copper foil, copper mesh, and sheet copper can also be used, though these materials are more costly.

The most basic level of RF shielding involves installing a single layer of radiant barrier foil or sheet aluminum. As the emanation protection needs increase, so does the materials list. Some levels require RF-shielded doors and wave guides for all penetrations; others need even more, such as power filters or additional layers of foil.

More fabrication time is needed to meet higher RF shielding levels, with larger facilities taking longer than smaller projects. For example, a 2,000 square foot project might need two extra days added to its timeline to achieve 30dB of RF shielding, while it might take an extra two weeks to achieve 80dB for another facility of the same size.

The RF shielding testing process

RF shielding levels are validated through Shielding Effectiveness (SE) testing, which is one of the final steps of the fabrication process. The most common kind of testing for modular SCIFs is spelled out in the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) 299.

This kind of testing is labor intensive. Before it can begin, the modular SCIF needs a plan that identifies all of its test points. The IEEE 299 is prescriptive on how test points should be spaced out, depending on the facility’s size and RF shielding requirements. The more penetrations, large walls, and doors a modular SCIF has, the more test points there will be.

Some projects will need testing at more frequencies than others—and with each test taking approximately one minute, this can dramatically impact how long the process takes. Whether a modular SCIF needs testing at three frequencies or nine, every test point must be checked at each of those prescribed levels. For example, if a modular SCIF has 50 test points and needs to be tested at three frequencies, that process will involve 150 tests in total; 10 frequencies for the same SCIF will equate to 500 total tests.

Two people (one person working outside and one inside) are typically needed for testing. Depending on the height of the facility’s walls, they might need lift equipment, which adds time and cost. The equipment needed to conduct the tests involve an antenna that transmits signals on the outside and a receiver on the inside that identifies whether those signals are passing through. This equipment, which is sensitive and somewhat fragile, is pricey (in the range of $250,000).

Leaks most commonly occur where doors have been installed. It’s also possible for holes to be poked into the foil near the end of fabrication. If an installer doesn’t mark their studs correctly, a stud can be missed while adding the final layer of drywall, an avoidable scenario that creates a leak. When that happens, it’s almost like a little antenna going out into the world.

What if there is an RF leak?

If a leak is detected, it might be tricky to determine exactly where it’s located, depending on the modular SCIF’s RF shielding level. The process of narrowing down where the leak is can become arduous. Drywall might need to be reinstalled, air vent ducts might need to be checked to ensure the honeycomb filters were installed properly, or adjustments might need to be made to the door.

Luckily, precautions can be taken to prevent leaks. Modular SCIF fabrication teams use a photo documentation checklist, with photos taken and assessed at every stage of the process. This safeguard ensures that multiple people review the photos to flag potential areas of concern before they become real problems. It also provides a way to go back and pinpoint where the problem began, in the event that a leak occurs.

But let’s be honest—the best strategy is to avoid leaks altogether. To do that, it’s essential to involve experts who can meet your modular RF shielding needs without issue. If you’re looking to get a secure facility with RF shielding quickly, UMI can help. To get started, download our free modular SCIF planning worksheet or reach out for a free quote.

A first-of-its-kind air-transportable SCIF that meets all ICD 705 requirements has finally arrived. In January 2025, Universal Modular Inc. (UMI) introduced the Joint Airlift Micro SCIF (JAMS) in partnership with Highland Engineering, Inc. (HEI).

JAMS—a product that didn't exist previously—was created to meet market demand for an air-transportable SCIF.

This unique mobile SCIF (Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility) was converted from an EAC-90. The EAC-90 is HEI’s version of an ISU-90, a military shipping container that can be deployed quickly and has the same dimensions as a JAMS facility.

The original EAC-90 features an air-transportable container built on a pallet system designed to roll into a military transport aircraft and lock straight in. UMI leaned on its own acoustic, RF shielding, and ICD 705 expertise paired with HEI’s expert manufacturing capabilities—and verified the resulting performance with independent third parties—to unveil JAMS as a fully accreditable SCIF capable of achieving over 100dB of RF shielding and exceeding acoustic protection levels of sound transmission class (STC) 50.

In addition to providing the kind of performance that is unheard of with most temporary SCIFs, JAMS facilities are ATTLA-certified for air transport, weigh little compared to other container SCIFs, and can be operational in about 10 minutes.

What it looks like

When stowed, a JAMS facility is 108” by 88” by 90” and weighs under 4,400 pounds. At this weight, the facility can be easily moved using a small forklift, a feature that’s a really important advantage for transportability.

Each JAMS facility has enough space inside to accommodate two small workstations totaling about 40 usable square feet—or enough room in which two people can work while seated on stools. A mini split HVAC and the necessary wiring for data and communications are among its many features.

Once inside, those working within the facility will notice that the white noise typically heard within other temporary SCIFs is missing. This is because JAMS facilities achieve STC levels over 50 without the use of sound masking—another rare achievement.

The project’s original goals

When a temporary SCIF is needed, the solution is often to set up a makeshift tent-like facility with some levels of protection, like sound masking and a 24-hour armed guard, in place. But unlike JAMS, these facilities don’t have any real acoustic or RF protection.

With JAMS, UMI aspired to transform container SCIFs into the kind of high performance facilities that would meet 100dB of RF shielding and a sound protection level of STC 50. The project exceeded both goals.

Complete TEMPEST mitigations

Tent-like temporary SCIFs often fall short of the government-provided SCIF security requirements spelled out in the Intelligence Community Directive (ICD) 705. JAMS facilities meet or exceed all ICD 705 requirements, which cover the SCIF’s physical, acoustic, and emanation security, as well as its visual controls, access control systems, and intrusion detection systems.

TEMPEST requirements can be tricky for temporary SCIFs to meet—but not JAMS. TEMPEST, the term used to reference the investigation, research, and control of potentially compromising emanations that come from electronic devices, includes RF shielding. The amount of RF shielding a modular SCIF requires varies from one project to the next. However, JAMS facilities are able to achieve RF protection levels of 100dB—a very difficult level to reach—in a range from 10 KHz to 18 GHz.

In addition to providing emanation protection levels that exceed all military standard RF shielding requirements, JAMS facilities provide additional TEMPEST mitigations, including power filtering and a fiber waveguide pass-through.

High acoustic protection levels are also tricky for mobile SCIFs to meet. While some temporary facilities are able to hit STC 50 levels, most SCIF air vent ducts don’t perform at that level. However, JAMS facilities are able to achieve this high acoustic performance level without additional sound masking.

Why JAMS?

When the U.S. Department of Defense deploys mobile SCIFs at forward operating sites, these temporary facilities are often used in the discussion and processing of classified data. With our enemies growing more sophisticated, there is a rising need for fully accreditable SCIFs that can be easily transported by air.

There has long been a need to adequately protect classified data in forward operating positions. JAMS finally provides an answer to that need.

To learn more about JAMS or get started on a quote, reach out to us.

Modular buildings have come a long way from the temporary classrooms that many people think of when they hear the term “modular.” These days, there are many ways that modular buildings can be customized to meet the needs of clients working within a wide range of industries. The extent to which customization is possible often surprises people who are less familiar with modular construction.

Custom modular buildings can be multi-story and can be outfitted with elevators. Those used for barracks or office spaces can house more unexpected features, such as kitchens and locker rooms.

These examples are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the options available for custom modular buildings. At Universal Modular, Inc. (UMI), the intended functions of requested customizations can almost always be matched to fit the client’s needs.

Modular building use

While schools still use modular buildings for temporary classrooms, there are several commercial industries that also find them useful. Custom modular buildings are primarily used for office space, as the interiors can be outfitted with human comfort elements, while the exteriors can be finished to match existing buildings. Modular buildings can also be customized to meet the needs of fast-food restaurants, barracks, medical offices, retail stores, and mixed-use spaces.

Types of customizations

Building height and size

Custom modular spaces can be built up to three stories high and can include elevators when needed or requested by the client. However, their footprint potential is unlimited. While a modular building’s height cannot exceed three stories, it can take up as much land space as is available.

Interior and exterior finishes

UMI can deliver all sorts of custom finishes that a client needs for their space. The exterior of a customized modular building can be finished to match existing buildings for consistency. Exterior windows and doors are also open to customization and product selection. UMI can match just about anything that clients wish to customize. For a building’s interior, UMI can provide standard commercial grade finishes up through higher-end marble and tile finishes.

Location

The ability to adapt to unusual space dynamics is a significant benefit of choosing modular construction. A modular building can be placed in a location that presents difficulties for traditional construction, and it can be transported by crane to its final destination when needed. Though modular buildings are fabricated in square and rectangle shapes only, these building blocks can be used creatively to fit the needs of tricky locations, or to adjust to site limitations. For example, a modular building can be placed on the side of a hill where traditional construction would be difficult, or inside the basement of a much larger building.

When necessary, UMI can pit set a building so that the finished product has a recessed foundation. This custom modular option allows the building to sit on a grade without the need for any deck steps or ramps, and gives the completed project a much stronger appearance of permanence.

Factory versus on-site customizations

A customized modular building’s interior is typically about 80% completed by the time it arrives on site. Specialty flooring and cabinets are among the kinds of customizations that are nearly finished in the factory, with the final 20% put in place after the building’s prefabricated pieces are assembled. Meanwhile, all customizations that appear on the exterior of the building are done on site.

Most common customizations

While there are many ways to customize a modular building, some customizations are more common than others. Many clients seek to customize a modular project’s exterior finish so that their new building matches existing structures. The second most common type of customization request involves human comfort elements, such as kitchens, break areas, locker rooms, and even showers. It might be surprising to learn the extent to which locker rooms and restrooms in particular can be customized. Once completed, these spaces essentially look no different from those that are found in conventionally constructed buildings.

Many clients request creative uses of modular blocks to fit spatial or site limitations. Others want clear span spaces within their customized modular buildings, which UMI can deliver. The ability to create an open space inside a modular building is perhaps the most unexpected customization option that is available, though some limitations do exist.

Customization limitations

The two main limitations for a custom modular building are its shape options and interior ceiling heights. Modular projects are only built in squares and rectangles, which means curved corners cannot be included in design proposals. However, all buildings that can be fabricated as a square or a rectangle can be modular. Meanwhile, modular buildings can reach three stories in height, but interior ceilings are generally limited to nine feet. Due to this ceiling height restriction, custom modular buildings typically do not work for warehousing and manufacturing, as these industries often require higher ceilings.

Though it is true that there are more customization constraints with modular construction than traditional construction, UMI is available to help clients figure out how they can wrangle what they want into what will work for a customized modular building. As we touched upon here, there are many exciting discoveries that clients will encounter along the way as they navigate the customization process. Contact UMI today to explore the options available for your custom modular building.

Modular SCIFs (Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities) are growing in popularity among government and private entities alike. But many people don’t realize how much goes into modular SCIF construction even before fabrication starts. The more Universal Modular, Inc. (UMI) knows about a client’s needs at the beginning of the process, the smoother that process will be.

How long will the project take? How much will it cost? These are the two most common questions asked as modular SCIF planning begins. The information covered here can help inform the answers to those questions and more.

Few clients have all of the details they need from the start—and that’s OK. UMI is here to advise on construction methodologies and to help create a plan that will meet the needs of all stakeholders involved.

How will the space be used?

The first thing clients need to know is what their modular SCIF will be used for, and how many people will need to use it. It is also essential to know how much land it will occupy, as the physical space available impacts the feasibility of the desired goals for the project. While limitations exist with smaller spaces, knowing what those spatial restrictions are helps shape design decisions.

From the very beginning of modular SCIF planning, all stakeholders involved need to be in agreement about the project’s intended use. The key stakeholders include the corporate sponsors, facilities and IT departments, security team, and the end user(s). It is vital to have a consensus before fabrication begins to ensure that the end product meets the needs of all parties involved.

Bringing a key stakeholder into the planning process late can negatively impact the project. Not every stakeholder knows what the others require of the space. For example, the IT department will need to advise on data communication necessities early on, as this component can make up about 20% of the project’s total cost. Meanwhile, the end user will know how the modular SCIF needs to function on a day-to-day basis. They can determine whether the space will be used for offices, hotdesking, or conferencing, and if it will need a restroom or kitchenette. Make sure the corporate sponsor in charge of finances is involved early on so that the programming is not beyond the budget available.

Does the program that the modular SCIF will support already exist?

While forward planning isn’t a bad thing, it’s important for UMI to know if the modular SCIF is intended to support a future program or one already in existence. For projects with the U.S. government, clients need to be in possession of their contract (the DD Form 254) to have an Accrediting Official (AO) assigned. Modular SCIF construction cannot begin until an accrediting official has been identified and has granted pre-construction approval for the project.

Clients working on non-government projects will need to secure other kinds of approvals. They should be aware of their local permitting processes and requirements, as these variables can impact their project’s timeline.

Regardless of whether the project involves the government or a private entity, UMI is able to do the project as a turn-key or just provide the building and installation, while the customer contracts their own site development work. It is important for the client to outline any such split so that UMI can coordinate with on-site teams to ensure utilities, building foundation, and other important details are set up in the correct locations.

What are the network, data communication, and TEMPEST requirements?

The number of classified and/or unclassified networks needed is another variable that directly impacts modular SCIF planning. This is important to know at the beginning because, in some cases, an employee might need to use a single workspace to run different networks on separate computers. This is not uncommon, but it does factor into spatial planning.

Whether the modular SCIF will be used for one classified program or more also impacts the design for the space. If the project is intended to support multiple classified programs, compartmented areas will need to be built within the modular SCIF to separate one program from another, as it is not guaranteed that every employee working in the space will have access to the same classified programs. This variable often answers the question of whether the project will need interior sound-rated walls, as this is required for compartmented areas.

Additionally, clients will need to specify if they will be running copper or fiber data communication systems inside the space, and what TEMPEST and RF shielding requirements have been identified. While RF shielding falls under TEMPEST requirements, UMI needs to know specifically what RF shielding is needed: 0, 30, 60, or 80 decibels (dB).

Are any security measures in place?

Does the property where the modular SCIF will be placed have existing security, such as gates or a security guard? The answer to this question helps inform UMI about whether the accrediting official might require additional mitigations. It is also helpful to know if the client already has a contract in place with a security systems vendor, as UMI will then work with that vendor as the fabrication process moves forward.

Does the project have any specialty requirements?

Anything considered out of the ordinary when compared with a space intended for standard office use could qualify as a specialty requirement. Some modular SCIFs need electrostatic dissipative (ESD) flooring, or large doors for loading in equipment. Others, like those used as data centers, need specialty fire suppression instead of overhead sprinklers.

Building finishes can also fall under this category if a new modular SCIF needs to match the interior or exterior of an existing building. This design detail can have substantial cost implications, as many specialty finishes must be completed on site, and can thus cause the project to lose some of the efficiency achieved in the factory setting.

Who will supply the furniture?

UMI can either supply the furniture for the modular SCIF or, if the client chooses to contract out this piece of the puzzle, can work with a designated furniture vendor. This decision impacts IT planning because data communication must be integrated into the furniture. Coordinating this integration with a vendor is doable but adds a step to the modular SCIF installation process.

How much will it cost?

Every project has a budget, and it is essential for UMI to know what that budget is from the beginning. There are many cost-cutting choices that can be made along the way, such as choosing lower-grade furniture or carpet for the space. By knowing what the client’s budget is, UMI can advise appropriately on which cost-saving measures will help the project budget stay on track.

To help you in your own modular SCIF project planning, download our fillable Modular SCIF Project Planning Worksheet. If you’re interested in getting a quote for your modular SCIF project, reach out to us—we’d love to help.

As clients in need of a SCIF (Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility) might be aware, protecting classified materials from unintended emanations is a growing concern. However, there are modular SCIF options available that can provide high levels of RF shielding to ensure that clients get the emanation protection they need for their facilities. While the level of required RF shielding varies from one project to the next, Universal Modular is able to adapt all clients’ emanation security needs into the fabrication of traditional roll-on modular buildings.

What is RF shielding?

Radio frequency (RF) is a measurement of the electromagnetic waves that an electronic device, such as a phone or a computer, emanates each second. Every electronic device gives off some RF, which can be a concern for facilities like SCIFs that house sensitive materials. In addition to the spaces that are used to store or handle classified materials, industries like tech and healthcare also benefit from RF protections in certain settings—such as in test labs or MRI rooms—and often take steps to shield against passive emanations.

When it comes to SCIFs, those emanations left unprotected are vulnerable to bad actors, who can use the electromagnetic signals to gain access to the data inside or to plant unwanted digital contaminations from the outside. Luckily, it is possible to build layers of emanation security directly into modular SCIFs. This process, known as RF shielding, varies depending on each project’s TEMPEST requirements. At this time, traditional roll-on modular SCIFs can achieve RF shielding levels up to 80 decibels (dB). Overall, there is very little difference between RF shielding in modular SCIFs and conventional construction projects in regard to materials and methodology.

What are TEMPEST requirements?

TEMPEST is the term used in reference to the investigation, research, and control of potentially compromising emanations that come from electronic devices. TEMPEST requirements, which can include the different levels of RF shielding, are a significant focus when it comes to building secure facilities. The primary purpose of having TEMPEST mitigations in place is to reduce the unintended emanations coming out of a SCIF so that bad actors are unable to use them to breach security.

A SCIF project’s Certified TEMPEST Technical Authority (CTTA) will provide them with the TEMPEST Countermeasures Requirements (TCR) needed for their traditional roll-on modular SCIF. The TCR must be obtained as early as possible because the SCIF design cannot be completed until those requirements are identified. The level of RF shielding needed for a SCIF affects the approach to its design and fabrication, as well as its total cost. It is therefore impractical to make major changes to a design after fabrication has begun.

How is RF shielding incorporated in modular SCIFs?

There is little difference between the RF shielding built into traditional roll-on modular SCIFs and the TEMPEST mitigations for ground-up construction projects. The materials used are the same, as are the installation methods. The only real difference is that some modular SCIF components, sometimes referred to as “holdbacks,” are added once the entire project is onsite, instead of in a factory setting.

Materials

The TCR provided by the CTTA will help determine a modular SCIF’s build methodology. Aluminum foil sheeting, or R Foil, might be used in the walls to meet one RF shielding level, while another might necessitate the use of galvanized sheet metal. More stringent TEMPEST mitigations can also call for power filtering or data filtering, and they can affect the kind of specialty RF-shielded doors that are needed.

In addition to the RF shielding materials used in the walls, floors, and ceilings of modular SCIFs, honeycomb waveguides can be added to protect the HVAC vent ducts from passive emanations. For high-level RF shielding environments, all perimeter penetrations should be treated with some sort of waveguide.

Holdbacks

Eighty percent or more of the RF shielding needed for a traditional roll-on modular SCIF can be finished in a factory setting. The use of this assembly line process adds an element of quality consistency that is difficult to replicate with ground-up construction projects, which have to contend with whichever build factors exist on location. However, there are some components of modular SCIFs that are put together onsite. As the majority of the build is completed in the factory, the layers of a project’s walls and floor are held back in successive levels. These holdbacks are mated only after they are transported and brought onsite. The high-precision doors used in modular SCIFs are also typically installed onsite to avoid the potential for damage as they are being transported.

Impacts on fabrication timeline

It is essential for a client to obtain their project’s TCR as early in the process as possible. Once the TEMPEST mitigation requirements have been identified, adding emanation security to a project has very little impact on the time it takes to build it. Though the design and accreditation phases for a traditional roll-on modular SCIF take time, most of the materials needed are readily available and can be ordered early in the process as the design details are being finalized. Out of all the RF shielding components that might be needed, power filters and specialty doors typically take the longest to obtain. However, both of these components can be installed onsite after the modular SCIF has been delivered to its final destination.

What costs are associated with RF shielding?

The level of RF shielding a project requires has a direct impact on its cost. This is another reason that nailing down the TCR early on is so important. For traditional roll-on modular SCIFs, RF shielding can add 15 to 30 percent to the project’s total cost.

If you’re looking to get a secure facility with RF shielding quickly, Universal Modular can help you program the right traditional roll-on modular SCIF for you. Reach out for a free quote today.

What is a container SCIF?

Clients in need of a portable and secure facility to house classified materials might consider choosing a container SCIF (Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility). This kind of mobile SCIF is made by building out an unaltered ISO shipping container. These facilities can be used to store sensitive materials or to provide people with secure offices, work areas, or meeting rooms for conducting business.

Due to their relatively small size, container SCIFs can be moved to entirely new locations as needed. The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and commercial companies that support DoD programs find containerized SCIFs useful because they can provide acoustic protection, RF protection, data filtering, and power filtering within transportable spaces—all without sacrificing security.

A container SCIF, sometimes referred to as a “SCIF in a box,” is usually delivered directly to a client’s preferred location once built out in accordance to the specifications and process outlined in the ICD 705. These types of secure facilities offer a quality consistency that is difficult to replicate with other SCIFs because of the set sizes of ISO shipping containers, which can be either 20 or 40 feet in length. Even so, the functions or security levels each container SCIF provides can vary widely, though it would be impossible to notice any differences from the outside as they offer the ability to hide in plain sight.

What are the primary advantages of container SCIFs?

Speed

One of the key reasons to choose a container SCIF is the speed with which it can be built. Designs are typically completed quickly due to the limited footprint of ISO shipping containers, which are ordinarily used to transport cargo by land or water. While the interior finishes for each project differ, the basics—such as the wall construction, door location, and heating and cooling systems—are consistent, which translates to faster build times.

With the exception of the entrance door, most of the materials needed to build a container SCIF are readily available. While typical renovation projects can get tied up for months in the designing and permitting processes, a container SCIF even with complex RF shielding can take just six months to complete. In many cases, container SCIFs can be built out and operational between three and six months faster than conventional construction options.

Timeline

Converting an ISO shipping container into a containerized SCIF usually takes about six months. Though the time required to actually build out a container SCIF is shorter, there is some lead time needed to obtain the specialty entrance door, which is typically ordered very early in the process. Container SCIFs can be sold to the government as “equipment,” a classification that helps cut down on the overall  timeline for government projects by avoiding the notoriously lengthy military construction (MILCON) process. often between 30 and 90 days. Initial designs must be approved by the accreditation official (AO) before the project can proceed with fabrication—often between 30 and 90 days.

Portability

Portability is another significant benefit of containerized SCIFs, which are the most mobile SCIF option. They can be transported by crane, forklift, or on the road. The ISO shipping containers that are transformed into container SCIFs can also maintain ocean certification, which enables qualifying projects to be transported overseas once they have been completed. 

Due to their portability, container SCIFs can operate onboard ships and outside existing buildings permanently or temporarily. They can even be brought directly inside warehouses as an alternative to conventional construction builds. In contrast to ground-up construction projects, container SCIFs can essentially be moved wherever and whenever they are needed. There are even many commercial off the shelf (COTS) products such as wheel casters and chassis to aid in their mobility.

Quality consistency

The standard sizes of ISO shipping containers lend a consistency to container SCIF designs. In addition to looking just like shipping containers from the outside, the materials used for the wall construction and other basics of the build are uniform from one container SCIF to the next. While on-site projects require construction teams to adapt to whichever building factors and constraints exist on location, the assembly line process used to build container SCIFs off-site provides another level of quality consistency.

Security

The design and build consistencies of container SCIFs provide a level of dependability that is valuable for clients who have security concerns and are looking to obtain a reliable space. While the internal finishes differ from one project to the next, wall construction and other basic design elements are built the same way in an assembly line. This process factors into another benefit for clients with security concerns. From the outside, it is impossible to tell the difference between a normal ISO shipping container and a containerized SCIF. This ability to hide in plain sight means that container SCIFs can operate in any needed location without alerting passersby to whatever sensitive information or activities might be contained within.

What are the costs associated with container SCIFs?

Despite the relative simplicity of container SCIF designs, there can be large swings in costs that depend on a variety of factors. There are some fixed costs associated with each project regardless of its intended use, such as the security system, the main door, and the HVAC and electrical systems. Other costs vary from one container SCIF to the next. The amount of RF shielding a project requires is one factor that affects cost, while the interior materials needed to make it operational similarly depend on the established goals for that specific container SCIF. Whether the client is providing their own security system or prefers that it be included in the build also affects the total cost.

Do limitations exist?

When it comes to functionality, there are no limitations for a container SCIF. Size is the only restrictive factor, given the standard sizes of ISO shipping containers. Containerized SCIFs are 8 feet wide by 20 or 40 feet long, and either 8.5 or 9.5 feet high. Even so, the relatively small size is also beneficial because it means a container SCIF can be delivered ready-made and relocated easily.

If you’re looking to get a secure facility quickly, Universal Modular can help you program the right container SCIF for you. Reach out to us to get a free quote for your container SCIF project.

Modular SCIFs offer a faster, more cost-effective option that can save your organization valuable time, money, and resources.

What is a SCIF?

Before we dive into the ins and outs of modular SCIFs, let’s briefly define a SCIF. A SCIF (Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility), pronounced “skiff,” is a U.S. government–accredited facility where classified information can be developed, stored, discussed, or processed (electronically or otherwise).

Typically, SCIFs are used by government and government-related contractors, and they require high security to protect sensitive information. SCIFs and SAPFs (Special Access Program Facilities) are two types of secure facilities commonly lumped under the umbrella term “SCIF” and used interchangeably because they are built according to the same governing document. 

Given the sensitive nature of the information they contain, SCIFs have to be built to very specific government-provided standards, laid out in the ICD 705 Version 1.5.1 Tech Spec. These include requirements for the facility’s physical security, acoustic security, visual controls, access control systems (ACS), intrusion detection systems (IDS) and emanation (TEMPEST) security, among others. If built to the ICD 705 requirements, essentially any type of commercial building can be used as a SCIF, whether it’s a tenant improvement project, renovation, ground-up traditional construction, or modular building.

What is a Modular SCIF?

The term “modular” is basically an all-encompassing umbrella used for something built off-site. Think a high school classroom separate from the main buildings on campus, for example. 

Modular buildings are typically trailered or loaded on a flatbed truck and are put in place and then “mated,” or assembled, on-site since they are typically shipped in pieces.

Modular buildings differ slightly from mobile buildings in that “mobile” is usually a single unit that can be moved and relocated multiple times. Modular buildings, on the other hand, can be multi-unit, can vary in size, and although they can be moved, they aren’t necessarily designed to be portable. They can be moved once, but generally shouldn’t be moved more than once during their lifespan. It can be done, but for modular SCIFs, the amount of precision construction and complexity of components do not lend well to multiple—they are intended to stay in place for a longer time period or permanently.

Benefits of Choosing Modular SCIFs

In addition to the benefits that come from off-site construction, modular SCIFs have many more benefits.

Timeliness and Efficiency

The top benefit is all about speed. Traditional construction projects, including remodels or T.I. (tenant improvement) projects take time to plan, design, permit, and build. Add weather delays and other environmental factors, and you’re often looking at delayed timelines, which aren’t a problem for modular fabrication, which is built inside of a factory. A modular SCIF expedites the process, so you can get started on your project sooner. One of the greatest factors that increases speed with a modular project is the fact that you can do any required side development while the building is being fabricated in the factory. This parallel path is not available with conventional construction. 

The predictability and efficiency of modular construction appeals to many agencies and contractors. Factories can build and produce faster because it’s all they do whereas custom buildings have many facets, so both design and construction take longer. Modular SCIFs are uniform, consistent, and predictable. 

Flexibility and Customization 

In a similar vein, modular SCIFs are flexible. They can also be used as “fingers” that extend from a large building, making for an easy expansion or T.I./remodel option. 

They can be customized to fit your needs, though the square footage is limited to keep the facilities transportable. As long as you have enough room for the facility and the standoff distance for the door to open, you can place these essentially anywhere. They do need power hookups and lack bathroom facilities, so those are important considerations when deciding where they will be deployed. 

UMI experienced an instance in which a government customer needed to be able to pull in a forklift and have an open ceiling. This would have been much more expensive for a ground-up construction project. A modular SCIF was ideal because it allowed the agency the ability to build to fit their needs.

Cost savings

Last but definitely not least, all of the above benefits point to one major savings area: cost. Simply put, traditional construction models are expensive. Modular SCIF construction projects save money you would be spending on supplies and resources, personnel, and other inevitable costs involved in traditional projects.

Additional Considerations

Although modular facilities are a great option for many SCIF construction projects, they aren’t ideal for every project.

If your project requires a customized design with ornate architecture or other aesthetic details, a modular SCIF may not be the best choice. Modular SCIFs are more about function than being form, so to speak. No matter how you try to make them look inside and outside, they’re still going to be shaped like a rectangle.” 

Also, remember to consider how many times you plan to move your SCIF. Unlike ISO shipping containers that can be moved with relative ease, a modular facility will need to be deconstructed and reconstructed, and it will have more complicated utility needs. Container SCIFs are more “plug and play,” and can be up and running as long as they have a power source. 

The bottom line: Consider the nature of your project before choosing a building option. But, before you assume it can’t be done, it never hurts to ask.

Choose an Expert

Finally, before you get started on your next modular SCIF construction project, be sure to choose someone experienced.

Especially in the SCIF world, if you’re looking for the lowest price, everyone loses. You lose money, your accreditation requirements aren’t met, and you waste valuable time and resources. Ensure you’re talking to an expert who knows what they’re doing—even those experienced in the industry can be unfamiliar with the high-security complexities of the modular methodologies.

To learn more about modular SCIFs or get started on a quote for your next modular construction project, reach out to us.