*Published: 2025*
*Author: Carefree Support*
## What are Site Controls?
Site Controls are operational commands and setpoints available directly within CarefreeSCADA that allow authorized users to interact with field equipment. Depending on what your system is configured for, controls may include starting or stopping pumps, adjusting chemical feed setpoints, switching equipment between Auto and Manual modes, or changing target levels for tanks and reservoirs.
> **Controls require both an authenticated session and the appropriate permission level.** See [[Manage User Account#Authenticating Your Web Session]] and [[User Permissions]] before proceeding.
## How to Access Site Controls
Site Controls are accessed through the **Gear icon** in the top right corner of a Site page. The Gear icon is only visible on Sites that have controls configured.
1. Navigate to the Site page that contains the control you want to use.
2. Look for the **Gear icon** in the top right corner of the page.
3. If you have not already authenticated your session, click the **padlock icon** in the top right of the web page and complete Multi-Factor Authentication. (See [[Manage User Account#Authenticating Your Web Session]])
4. Click the **Gear icon** to open the controls panel for that site.
## Authentication Requirement
All Site Controls require an authenticated web session before they can be used. This is a security measure to ensure that only verified users can send commands to field equipment. The padlock icon in the top right of the page shows your current session status — click it to authenticate using Multi-Factor Authentication.
## Permission Requirement
Not all user roles have access to Site Controls. The following roles can use controls:
- **Manager** — Full access to all controls.
- **Operator-L1** — Can access and operate all site controls.
Users with roles below Operator-L1 (**Operator-L2**, **Operator-L3**, and **Read-Only**) cannot access Site Controls. See [[User Permissions]] for a complete breakdown of what each role can do.
## Types of Controls
The controls available on a given Site page vary depending on how your system is configured. Common types include:
- **Setpoint Changes** — Adjust a target value, such as a tank fill level, a pressure setpoint, or a chemical dosing rate.
- **On/Off Commands** — Manually start or stop a piece of equipment such as a pump, blower, or valve.
- **Mode Changes (Auto / Manual)** — Switch equipment between automatic (PLC-controlled) and manual (operator-controlled) operation.
## Audit Trail
Every control action taken through CarefreeSCADA is automatically recorded in the [[Audit Log]]. The log captures the timestamp, the user who performed the action, and exactly what was changed. This ensures full accountability for all operational decisions made through the platform and provides a clear record for review.
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