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Revised ASIS Security Risk Assessment Standard

ASIS International has announced the release of a revised American National Standards Institute (ANSI ) - approved standard dedicated to security risk assessments. The ASIS Security Risk Assessment (SRA) Standard has been revised and designed to revolutionise how organisations assess and manage security risks. Developed by a team of seasoned security professionals, the ASIS SRA Standard offers an up-to-date and forward-looking comprehensive and systematic approach to identifying, analysing, and evaluating security risks, ultimately empowering organisations to safeguard their assets, mitigate threats, and enhance resilience.

“The ASIS Security Risk Assessment Standard is the result of extensive collaboration and expertise from a diverse group of leading security professionals with expertise in conducting security risk assessments,” stated ASIS International’s SRA Technical Committee Co-Chair, Jennifer Holcomb, PE, PMP, PSP, CPP, CPD. “By outlining a systematic approach to security risk assessment, this standard empowers organisations to proactively identify and address vulnerabilities, ultimately strengthening their security posture."

The ASIS SRA Standard sets the benchmark for excellence in security risk assessment practices. With its robust framework and detailed guidance, this standard equips security practitioners with the tools and methodologies needed to conduct thorough and effective security risk assessments in diverse environments.

Key features of the ASIS SRA Standard include: 

• Comprehensive scope: The standard provides a detailed outline of the scope, objectives, and principles of security risk assessments, ensuring that all aspects of the assessment process are thoroughly covered.

• Establishing the SRA context: This section delves into the foundational elements of the SRA, including needs assessment, defining objectives, delineating roles, and responsibilities, and ensuring compliance with legal and other requirements.

• Preparing SRA activities: This section offers practical guidance on authorisation, information gathering, planning, and documentation; preparing practitioners to execute the SRA process. 

• Conducting SRA activities: From risk identification to evaluation, this section outlines the essential steps in analysing and assessing security risks, providing methodologies for both qualitative and quantitative analysis.

• Post-SRA activities: Following the assessment, this section guides organisations through implementing risk treatments and establishing ongoing monitoring and improvement mechanisms.

• General principles: This section emphasises impartiality, objectivity, competence, confidentiality, and the ethical and professional standards that underpin the SRA process. 

• Contents of the Security Risk Assessment Report: This section provides a template for reporting findings and recommendations and ensures clarity and consistency in communicating assessment outcomes.

With its emphasis on best practices, transparency, and continual improvement, the ASIS SRA Standard is poised to become the go-to resource for security professionals worldwide. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or new to the field, this standard offers invaluable insights and detailed guidance for enhancing your organisation's security posture.

The ASIS Security Risk Assessment Standard is now available as an eBook and in print.

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