---
id: GOV_OLD_SECRETS_HANDLING
type: reference
status: superseded
tier: T4
title: secrets-handling (old)
description: Previous secrets-handling governance (superseded).
applies_when:
  - "secrets manager"
  - "vault"
  - "dotenv"
  - "env var"
  - "credentials file"
superseded_by: GOV_NEW_SECRETS_HANDLING
---

# secrets-handling (previous)

This document records the previous governance decision for the secrets-handling area. It states the recommended approach, the rationale behind it, and how to request an exception.

## Decision

- Adopt the documented pattern for this area.
- Prefer the recommended approach over ad-hoc alternatives.
- Record any deviation in the project decision record.
- Consult this page before related work begins.
