DA Form 7278 Risk Level Worksheet – Official PDF

DA Form 7278 Risk Level Worksheet – Official PDF – The DA Form 7278 Risk Level Worksheet is a critical tool in the U.S. Army’s physical security program. Commanders, physical security officers, and unit personnel use it to assess and mitigate risks to unclassified Army resources (sensitive and nonsensitive). Whether you manage arms rooms, motor pools, supply facilities, or other mission-essential assets, this worksheet helps determine the appropriate level of protection based on asset value and threat likelihood.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn exactly what DA Form 7278 is, why it matters, how to fill it out correctly, and where to download the official PDF. This information comes directly from trusted Army publications like AR 190-51 and DA Pam 190-51.

What Is DA Form 7278?

DA Form 7278, titled Risk Level Worksheet, replaced the older DA Form 7278-R (August 1993). The Provost Marshal General (PMG) is the proponent agency, and it is prescribed for use with DA Pam 190-51, Risk Analysis for Army Property.

The form provides a standardized method to:

  • Identify an “inspectable area” or specific asset.
  • Rate the asset’s value (mission criticality, replaceability, cost, etc.).
  • Evaluate the likelihood of threats from various aggressors.
  • Calculate an overall risk level (typically I, II, or III).

These risk levels then dictate the minimum physical security measures required under AR 190-51 (Security of Unclassified Army Property).

Why the Army Requires DA Form 7278?

Army commanders must conduct risk analyses for mission-essential or vulnerable areas. This includes:

  • New unit activations or relocations.
  • Facility renovations or new construction.
  • Every three years (or more frequently if the commander directs).
  • After any security incident or compromise.

The worksheet supports the Army’s risk-based approach to physical security. It ensures resources are protected efficiently without wasting limited funds on unnecessary measures. Units in the continental United States (CONUS) and overseas use it for everything from controlled cryptographic items to vehicles and industrial equipment.

Key Sections of the DA Form 7278 Risk Level Worksheet

Although the exact layout appears in the official PDF, the form generally includes these core elements (based on the current version and DA Pam 190-51 guidance):

  1. Unit or Organization and Inspectable Area – Identify the responsible unit and the specific location or asset being assessed.
  2. Description – Brief description of the asset or area (e.g., “Arms Room – Building 1234”).
  3. Value Rating Factors – Rates the asset’s importance based on mission essentiality, cost to replace, sensitivity, and impact if lost or damaged.
  4. Likelihood Rating Factors – Assesses probability of threats from categories such as:
    • Unsophisticated criminals
    • Sophisticated criminals
    • Organized criminal groups
    • Vandals/activists
    • Extremist protest groups
    • CONUS terrorist threats (and other relevant aggressors)
  5. Risk Level Calculation – Combines value and likelihood ratings to determine the overall risk level.
  6. Protective Measures – References the minimum security standards required for that risk level per DA Pam 190-51.

A separate worksheet is typically completed for each distinct asset or inspectable area.

Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out DA Form 7278?

Follow these official steps when completing the worksheet:

  1. Gather Information – Collect data on the asset’s value, past incidents, local threat environment, and current security measures. Reference DA Pam 190-51 tables for rating guidance.
  2. Enter Header Information – Fill in the unit/organization, inspectable area, date, and preparer’s name/rank.
  3. Describe the Asset – Provide a clear, concise description and assign the appropriate asset category.
  4. Rate Asset Value – Use the value rating factors table to assign points or levels based on criticality and replaceability.
  5. Assess Threat Likelihood – Evaluate each aggressor category using local intelligence, crime statistics, and historical data. Assign the appropriate likelihood rating.
  6. Calculate Risk Level – Apply the form’s matrix or formula to determine the final risk level (I = highest protection required).
  7. Document Protective Measures – Note required security standards and any additional recommendations.
  8. Review and Approve – The commander or designated security officer reviews and signs the completed worksheet.

Pro Tip: Keep a copy with the unit’s physical security plan and provide one to the supporting provost marshal or Directorate of Emergency Services (DES).

Benefits of Using the DA Form 7278

  • Risk-Based Decision Making – Prioritizes protection where it matters most.
  • Regulatory Compliance – Meets requirements of AR 190-51 and DA Pam 190-51.
  • Resource Efficiency – Avoids over- or under-securing assets.
  • Documentation – Creates an auditable record for inspections, audits, and CSDP (Command Supply Discipline Program) checks.
  • Force Protection – Directly supports overall installation and unit safety.

Units conducting Command Supply Discipline Program (CSDP) inspections often require a current DA Form 7278 for facilities like parachute rigging areas.

Download Official DA Form 7278 PDF

Get the latest official fillable version directly from the U.S. Army Publishing Directorate:

➡️ Download DA Form 7278 Risk Level Worksheet PDF

This is the current FINAL version hosted on armypubs.army.mil. Always use the official source to ensure you have the most up-to-date form.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How often must I update DA Form 7278?
Every three years, or whenever there is a significant change in the asset, facility, mission, or threat environment.

Is DA Form 7278-R still valid?
No. The current DA Form 7278 supersedes the older 7278-R version.

Who is required to complete the worksheet?
Unit commanders, physical security officers, or designated representatives working jointly with the provost marshal/DES.

Can I fill it out digitally?
Yes—the official PDF is fillable. Many units also maintain electronic records in their physical security plans.

Where can I find detailed rating tables and examples?
Refer to DA Pam 190-51 (available through Army publishing channels) for the complete risk analysis procedure and example worksheets.

Final Thoughts

The DA Form 7278 Risk Level Worksheet remains an essential part of the U.S. Army’s proactive approach to protecting people, property, and mission capability. By systematically evaluating threats and asset value, leaders ensure the right security measures are in place—saving time, money, and potentially lives.

For official guidance, always consult the latest AR 190-51 and DA Pam 190-51 alongside the form itself. If you’re preparing for an inspection, CSDP review, or facility upgrade, download the PDF today and start your risk analysis.

Need help? Contact your local Directorate of Emergency Services or provost marshal office for unit-specific assistance with DA Form 7278.