DA Form 4604: Security Construction Statement Guide

DA Form 4604: Security Construction Statement Guide – The DA Form 4604, officially titled Security Construction Statement, is a key U.S. Army document used to verify that facilities storing arms, ammunition, and explosives (AA&E) meet the physical security standards outlined in AR 190-11. This form certifies compliance for new construction, modifications, or existing structures and serves as an essential record for inspections, licensing, and operational readiness.

What Is DA Form 4604?

DA Form 4604 is a one-page form that formally documents whether a military facility’s construction (walls, doors, ceilings, floors, roofs, etc.) conforms to the physical security criteria in AR 190-11, Physical Security of Arms, Ammunition, and Explosives. It identifies the highest construction category the structure meets for AA&E storage (typically Categories I through IV).

The current version (SEP 2006) is prepared by qualified Directorate of Public Works (DPW) or engineering personnel. It applies to arms rooms, ammunition supply points (ASPs), and other AA&E storage facilities across Army installations.

Download the official DA Form 4604 PDF here:
https://armypubs.army.mil/pub/eforms/DR_a/pdf/DA%20FORM%204604.pdf

Purpose of the Security Construction Statement

The primary purpose of DA Form 4604 is to provide documented assurance that a facility meets minimum security construction standards for protecting sensitive military assets. It ensures:

  • Compliance with AR 190-11 physical security requirements.
  • Proper categorization of the facility (e.g., suitable for Category II weapons storage).
  • Identification of any deviations, waivers, or exceptions.
  • Support for arms room licensing, physical security inspections, and risk assessments.

Commanders and security managers rely on this form to confirm that structures provide adequate protection against theft, sabotage, or unauthorized access. A current copy is typically posted inside the arms room or storage facility.

Key Requirements and Validity

  • Validity Period: DA Form 4604 is generally valid for 5 years and must be revalidated by qualified engineer personnel. Start the renewal process 30–90 days before expiration via a Facilities Engineering Work Request (e.g., DA Form 4283).
  • Posting: A current copy must remain posted inside the facility (often on the inside back of the arms room door) and is tied to the building, not a specific unit.
  • Preparation: Prepared in three copies. The original stays with the signing official, one with the using unit, and one in the storage facility. Most entries are typewritten.

How to Fill Out DA Form 4604?

Filling out the form requires coordination with DPW or engineering staff. Key sections include:

  1. Facility Details — Room/building number, street, and installation address.
  2. Application Type — Check whether it applies to:
    • An existing structure.
    • Construction of a new facility.
    • Modification of an existing facility (with explanation).
  3. Statement of Conformance — Certifies compliance with AR 190-11 standards in effect on the date of the form, except for any noted deviations.
  4. Official Information — Name, grade, organization, address, signature, and date signed by the responsible engineer/official.

All deviations or exceptions must be clearly indicated. Consult AR 190-11 for detailed construction criteria by category.

Importance in Arms Room and AA&E Operations

In arms rooms, the DA Form 4604 directly impacts operational authorization. For example:

  • Facilities storing Category II items typically require minimum Category II construction standards.
  • If standards are not fully met, compensatory measures (such as more frequent checks) may apply.

It is a required document for arms room licensing, physical security inspections (not to exceed 18 months), and overall force protection programs. Blanket statements may be used in some cases, such as at large ASPs with uniform facilities.

Common Issues and Best Practices

  • Ensure the form is current (revalidated every 5 years).
  • Verify it lists the highest applicable construction category.
  • Keep it posted and accessible for inspections.
  • Submit timely requests for updates after any facility modifications.

Units should coordinate early with installation DPW for inspections and form preparation to avoid compliance gaps during audits or licensing reviews.

Official Resources and Downloads

For the most authoritative information, refer to:

  • AR 190-11: Physical Security of Arms, Ammunition, and Explosives.
  • Army Publishing Directorate (APD) for the latest form.

Official Download Link:
DA Form 4604 PDF

U.S. Army personnel should always check with their local security manager, DPW, or Provost Marshal for installation-specific guidance. Maintaining an up-to-date Security Construction Statement is a critical component of protecting personnel, equipment, and national security assets.