Compliance Checklist for Manufacturing Small Businesses

At EDCi, we understand that small business manufacturing compliance is more than a checkbox exercise. It's a strategic approach to safeguarding your business, your employees, and your customers. Our expertise in the manufacturing sector, combined with our deep understanding of regulatory frameworks, positions us ideally to offer tailored solutions that address your specific needs.

Our checklist is designed to demystify the complexity of regulations. We guide you through every step, ensuring that your business not only complies with the necessary legal requirements but also benefits from enhanced operational efficiency and market competitiveness.

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1. Security Segmentation

Start by identifying the security zones within your organization. Classify your assets and endpoints based on their risk levels and functions, and allocate them into these zones. This step is vital in creating a structured and efficient cybersecurity framework.
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2. Layered Security Approach

For comprehensive protection, implement a multi-layered security approach. This includes:

• Physical Security: Securing your physical assets and locations.
• Network Security: Safeguarding your network against unauthorized access and
  cyber threats.
• Endpoint Security: Protecting individual devices connected to your network.

3. Software Updates and Patch Management

Establish a policy for regular software updates and patches. This is crucial to protect your systems from vulnerabilities and cyberattacks.
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4. Customized Configuration of Hardware and Systems

Customize the configuration of your hardware and systems because default settings are often vulnerable. Tailor your settings to suit your specific business needs.

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5. Zero Trust and Authentication

Adopt a Zero Trust model where trust is never assumed and always verified. Ensure the implementation of multi-factor authentication (MFA) and adherence to the policy by all users.

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6. Role-Based Access Levels

Define role-based access levels to control who has access to what information. This minimizes risks and ensures that employees only have access to the data essential for their role.

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7. Employee Training

Conduct regular training sessions for employees on cybersecurity best practices, including phishing scam awareness, password management, and the importance of MFA.
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8. Ongoing Audits

Determine the optimal frequency of your security audits. Regular audits help in identifying vulnerabilities and ensuring compliance with cybersecurity policies.
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9. AI Solutions

Define your stance and policies regarding the use of AI solutions. This includes decisions on building in-house AI solutions or using external products like ChatGPT while ensuring the security of proprietary information.
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10. Disaster Recovery Plan

Develop a robust disaster recovery plan. This should include an incident response strategy and measures to ensure resilience in your infrastructure.
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11. Compliance and Industry Standards

Understand and implement relevant industry standards such as NIST. Compliance with these standards is crucial for maintaining cybersecurity integrity.
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Cybersecurity is an ongoing process. Regularly reviewing and updating your cybersecurity checklist is vital in keeping up with evolving cyber threats. Ensuring that your manufacturing business is not only compliant but also resilient against cybersecurity risks will prevent disruptions and ensure the safety of your business interests. To learn more about steps you can take to secure your business, download our e-book “Security and Compliance for Manufacturing SMBs.”