Overview of Personnel Security

Personnel Security is a program that establishes standards, criteria, and guidelines for determining the eligibility of personnel in terms of security risks. The program includes background checks, security clearances, and other measures to ensure that employees and contractors meet the necessary security requirements. The Division of Personnel Security and Suitability (DPSS) is responsible for implementing the program. The role of personnel security is to protect people, information, and assets from harm or compromise. There are three types of personnel security investigations, including a National Agency Check, OPM investigations, and a review of relevant financial and personnel records. The difference between personal security and personnel security is that personal security refers to protecting oneself, while personnel security refers to protecting others with whom one is affiliated. The job of a personnel security specialist entails ensuring that employees and contractors obtain the proper security clearance. Typical personnel security practices include returning and issuing keys, identification cards, and building passes, closing information system accounts, establishing new accounts, and changing information system access authorizations related to staff transfer or reassignment.