SafePoint information

1. INTRODUCTION
SafePoint is a new project in development by the SafePod Network.  SafePoint is a low cost and scalable solution to provide researchers with a standardised safe setting within their organisation for data that requires secure access for research.

A SafePoint comprises of:

  • A SafePod Network approved room
    The room must be within an organisation's building and meet SPN security and physical requirements to be a SafePoint Room.
     
  • A SafePoint Desk
    This is a SPN custom built desk within a SafePoint Room that provides the security controls and IT system for remote data access.

Figure 1: Picture of the SafePoint Desk exterior.

Figure 2: Picture of the SafePoint Desk interior

The dimensions of the SafePoint Desk are approximately 2.3 metres width by 1.69 metres depth by 1.6 metres height.  Measurements of the desk include the screen barrier.


2. SAFEPOINT MAJOR BENEFITS
The major benefits for SafePoint are as follows:

  • Local data access: A researcher has secure remote data access from their organisation.
  • Various data access: Different Data Centre’s data can be accessed from a SafePoint.
  • Scalable: Any approved research organisation in the UK can have a secure data access point.
  • Low cost: Offers an affordable solution for secure data access.
  • Simplicity: Removes the setup, assurances, security and ongoing governance measures required by Data Centres for an organisation to set up and operate their own safe setting.
  • Speed: Can be set up quickly to provide an approved organisation with a secure data access point.
  • Collaboration: Multiple SafePoint Desks can be placed in a room for collaborative working.
  • Widens data access: Provides Data Centres with a ready-made safe settings platform to widen access to their data across the UK.
  • Flexibility: The room can be used for other purposes when not in use as a SafePoint.
  • Future proofed: Can be used for an organisation’s own local confidential research projects.


3. PHYSICAL SECURITY
A SafePoint has the following physical security controls:

  • The set up of the SafePoint Room (including door) must meet the criteria specified by the SafePod Network.
  • A tall screen barrier around three sides of the SafePoint Desk prevents oversight risk.
  • CCTV camera installed into the SafePoint Desk enables Data Centres to monitor activity.
  • A secure locked cupboard for storage of IT equipment is built into the SafePoint Desk.
  • The monitors at a SafePoint Desk can only be switched on by a token activation.
  • To protect information on the monitors, a sensor on the SafePoint Desk automatically switches the monitors off when there is no one at the desk.
  • Cabling within a SafePoint Desk is hidden to prevent tampering.
  • A retractable belt barrier in place between the SafePoint Desk entrance(s) and adjoining wall(s).  Belt barrier provides a warning for unauthorised persons not to enter and must be in place when the desk is in use and not in use.


4. MANAGEMENT AND USE
Each SafePoint is managed by a Senior Responsible Person and a team of Coordinators in line with SafePod Network policies.  Coordinators are background checked and trained.

Researchers can only use a SafePoint once they have completed an online training questionnaire on SafePoint terms and conditions for use.  


5. APPLICATION AND FURTHER INFORMATION
Funding applications for SafePoints will be available in 2024.  Funded SafePoints require an organisation to provide access to both internal and external researchers.  SafePoints will also be available for organisations to purchase for dedicated research projects. 

For ESRC and ADR UK research grants, organisations can include the costs for a SafePoint in their research grant proposal for consideration.  This is subject to a separate approved application made to the SafePod Network for a SafePoint.

For more information contact the SafePod Network on 01334 463901 or email safepodnetwork@st-andrews.ac.uk.