PE-15 Water Damage Protection in NIST SP 800-53 Rev 5 is a single sentence. Protect the system from damage caused by water leakage by providing master shutoff or isolation valves that are accessible, working properly and known to key personnel.
800-53 binds US federal systems and, through contract, some suppliers. For others it is a reference, and relevant mainly to equipment you house yourself.
What it means in practice
The guidance says isolation valves can be used in addition to, or instead of, master valves, so you can shut off water to one area without affecting the whole organization. Three tests apply: can you reach the valve, does it work, and do the right people know where it is.
Evidence to collect
- Plumbing diagram or photo marking the valves.
- A record of a valve test.
- Staff contact or training record showing who knows the location.
Common gaps
The valve is behind a locked door nobody has a key for. It has never been turned and is stuck.
How to implement it
Locate, label, test annually and brief the people on call. PE-15.1 Automation Support adds automated water detection that alerts staff.
Quick check
What do key personnel need to know?
Where the valves are and how to operate them.
