BPSS (Baseline Personnel Security Standard)
What is BPSS (Baseline Personnel Security Standard)
BPSS Screening is a government approved screening standard typically applied to Civil Servants, Members of the Armed Forces, Temporary Staff and Government Contractors.
The application of the BPSS should ensure that organisations are employing people entitled to work in the UK and with the honesty, integrity and values needed for government-related work. As part of a holistic security regime, which includes physical and IT security measures, departments and agencies must have in place appropriate personnel security controls before and during employment to reduce the risk of damage, loss, or compromise of government assets.
The Baseline Personnel Security Standard is a comprehensive and robust screening process that helps ensure the suitability, integrity, and reliability of individuals employed in roles involving access to sensitive information or areas.
Efficient & user-friendly background screening.
With our background screening software it’s quick and easy to prepare candidates for screening, select from the variety of checks available, and monitor each candidate’s screening progress as we complete it.
To learn more about how our screening services can help your organisation, or to book a demo, please get in touch.
Component parts of a BPSS
These components collectively aim to ensure that individuals employed in security-sensitive roles are thoroughly vetted to protect against potential risks to security.
Reference Checks
The standard necessitates contacting the candidate’s previous employers or professional references to gather insights into their work ethic, performance, and character. This step helps assess the candidate’s suitability for the security role.
Right to Work Verification
The standard requires verifying the candidate’s eligibility to work in the United Kingdom, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and immigration laws.
Criminal Record Check
BS7858 requires a thorough criminal record check to identify any previous convictions, pending charges, or cautions that may impact the candidate’s suitability for the role. This check helps assess the candidate’s integrity and reliability.
Identity Verification
BS7858 requires the verification of the candidate’s identity using reliable and verified sources, ensuring that the provided personal information matches official documents.
Why BPSS and what it brings to your organisation?
Operational Efficiency
Streamlined Onboarding: Facilitates a smoother and more reliable onboarding process by ensuring all necessary checks are completed before employment.
Reduced Turnover Costs: By ensuring a good match between the organization’s security needs and the individual’s background, BPSS can help reduce turnover and associated costs
Enhanced Risk Management
Proactive Approach: BPSS allows organizations to proactively manage risks by identifying potential issues before they become problems.
Continuous Monitoring: Encourages ongoing monitoring and reassessment of personnel, adapting to any changes in their circumstances that might affect security.
Client & Stakeholder Confidence
Employing individuals who have undergone BPSS screening instils confidence in clients, stakeholders, and partners.
It demonstrates a commitment to security, privacy, and professionalism, fostering trust and strengthening relationships with key stakeholders.
Competitive Advantage
Preferred Partner: Being BPSS compliant can make the organization a preferred partner for government contracts and other sensitive projects.
Market Differentiation: Distinguishes the organization from competitors who may not have the same level of security commitment
Improved Security
Screened Workforce: Ensures that employees have been screened for identity, criminal records, employment history, and the right to work in the UK.
Reduced Risk: Lowers the likelihood of hiring individuals who might pose a security risk due to past behaviour or associations.
Standardized Screening
Consistent Criteria: Provides a standardized approach to personnel security, ensuring consistency across the organization.
Clear Guidelines: Establishes clear guidelines and procedures for vetting personnel, making the process transparent and efficient.