May I attach anything to my GSA container?
Do not permanently attach anything to your GSA container. Per DoD 5200.1-R C6.4.7.3. "Unapproved modification or repair of security containers and vault doors is considered a violation of the container's or door's integrity and the GSA label shall be removed. Thereafter, they may not be used to protect classified information except as otherwise authorized in this Regulation." Some exceptions apply per DoD 5200.1-R C6.4.6.1, though all stickers and decals must be removed prior to a GSA recertification inspection.
What kind of lock must I have?
A GSA approved security container having a lock replaced must use one conforming to FF-L-2740A unless it is an AA&E container or a field safe, in which case a lock meeting FF-L-2937 shall be used.
May I repair an older lock?
No. Existing locks that do not conform to FF-L-2740A or FF-L-2937 shall not be repaired and must be replaced per DoD 5200.1-R C6.4.3.1.3.
When must I have my locks in compliance with FF-L-2740A?
Currently there is no cut off date however the Inspector General is currently looking for this lock on all GSA approved security containers.
May I secure a field safe to a structure using the carry handles?
No. Per AA-F-358H, 3.3.8 "The handles are not intended to provide security against unauthorized removal of the cabinet…"
What must my GSA security container have in order to store classifieds?
A container may be missing its certification, identification, weight, and all other labels however it must, at a minimum, have its external GSA approval label still affixed. A lock meeting FF-L-2740A is required in order to store Top Secret. Containers with functional locks that were approved at the time of production may still be used for Secret and below.
When should I have my container inspected?
Every time the external GSA approval label is missing and in every instance where the security integrity of the container is in question.
If my container must be drilled open, can it be repaired?
Yes. If a container is opened and repaired in accordance with FED-STD-809B it may be put back into use and does not require a recertification inspection.
Do you need to be GSA certified to work on my containers?
This is dependent upon who is requesting the service. Per AFI31-401, 5.22.1 "Locksmiths or technicians must be GSA certified and either have a favorable NAC or must be continuously escorted while they are repairing security containers." Army regulation 380-5 and Navy SECNAV M-5510-36 make no mention of a certification requirement as of yet to work on the containers. NISPOM or DoD 5220.22-M 5-311 states that "repairs, maintenance, or other actions that affect the physical security integrity of a security container approved for the storage of classified information shall be accomplished only by appropriately cleared or continuously escorted personnel specifically trained in approved methods of maintenance and repair of containers."
What things should I do prior to a recertification inspection?
Remove all contents and inspect the container thoroughly for anything that may have fallen behind drawers. Remove all stickers, decals, etc that did not come from the manufacturer as the container cannot be recertified with them on. Ensure that the lock, if other than an x series, has its dust cover. If you have a Mosler lock on the container you should plan on having it replaced due to the spline keys being out of production and the need to replace them with OEM parts after inspection.
