NIST 800-171
U.S. standard for protecting CUI in nonfederal systems
CAA
U.S. federal law for air pollution control
Quick Verdict
NIST 800-171 provides cybersecurity for CUI in contractors, while CAA mandates emission controls for air quality. Organizations adopt NIST for DoD contracts and CMMC, CAA for legal compliance across industries to avoid fines and sanctions.
NIST 800-171
NIST SP 800-171 Protecting CUI in Nonfederal Systems
Key Features
- Scoped to CUI-processing components in nonfederal systems
- 110 requirements organized into 14 families (r2)
- Mandates SSP and POA&M for implementation tracking
- Tailored from SP 800-53 Moderate confidentiality baseline
- Enforced contractually via DFARS 252.204-7012 clause
CAA
Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. §7401 et seq.)
Key Features
- Sets NAAQS for six criteria pollutants
- Requires State Implementation Plans (SIPs)
- Imposes NSPS and MACT standards
- Mandates Title V operating permits
- Enforces via penalties and citizen suits
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
NIST 800-171 Details
What It Is
NIST SP 800-171 Revision 3 is a U.S. government framework providing security requirements to protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) confidentiality in nonfederal systems. Its primary scope targets contractors handling CUI, using a control-based approach tailored from SP 800-53 Moderate baseline.
Key Components
- 97 requirements (r3) across 17 families like Access Control, Audit, Supply Chain Risk Management.
- Core artifacts: System Security Plan (SSP) and Plan of Action and Milestones (POA&M).
- Built on FIPS 200; companion SP 800-171A r3 for assessments (examine/interview/test).
- Compliance via self-assessment or third-party (e.g., CMMC Level 2).
Why Organizations Use It
- Mandatory for DoD contractors via DFARS 252.204-7012; ensures contract eligibility.
- Reduces CUI breach risks; builds supply chain trust.
- Enhances cybersecurity maturity, SPRS scoring for procurement advantage.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: scope CUI enclave, gap analysis, implement controls, document SSP/POA&M.
- Applies to federal contractors globally; high for defense supply chains.
- Assessments via SP 800-171A; ongoing monitoring essential. (178 words)
CAA Details
What It Is
The Clean Air Act (CAA), codified at 42 U.S.C. §7401 et seq., is a U.S. federal statute regulating air emissions from stationary and mobile sources. Its primary purpose is protecting public health and welfare via National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) and technology-based controls. It uses cooperative federalism: EPA sets national floors, states implement through State Implementation Plans (SIPs) and permits.
Key Components
- NAAQS for six criteria pollutants (ozone, PM, CO, Pb, SO2, NO2) with primary/secondary standards.
- Source standards: NSPS, NESHAPs/MACT.
- Title V operating permits, NSR/PSD preconstruction review.
- Enforcement tools, Title IV cap-and-trade, Title VI ozone protection. No certification; federally enforceable via permits and penalties.
Why Organizations Use It
- Mandatory compliance avoids civil/criminal penalties, sanctions, citizen suits.
- Enables operations via permits, reduces nonattainment risks.
- Supports ESG, stakeholder trust, cost savings from efficient controls.
Implementation Overview
Phased: gap analysis, permitting (Title V/NSR), controls/monitoring (CEMS), training/reporting. Applies to polluting industries; complex for major sources nationwide.
Key Differences
| Aspect | NIST 800-171 | CAA |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | CUI protection in nonfederal systems | Air quality and emission controls |
| Industry | Defense contractors, federal suppliers | Manufacturing, energy, all emitters |
| Nature | Recommended security requirements | Mandatory federal environmental law |
| Testing | Examine/interview/test assessments | CEMS, stack tests, monitoring |
| Penalties | Contract ineligibility, SPRS scores | Fines, sanctions, citizen suits |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about NIST 800-171 and CAA
NIST 800-171 FAQ
CAA FAQ
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