Granting a Stamp of Approval

• NCJ Number: 172457
• Journal: Security Management Volume: 42 Issue: 5 Dated: (May 1998) Pages: 62-69
• Author(s): L A Kirksey; B L Smith
• Date Published: 1998
• Length: 8 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Program/Project Description
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This article describes a background screening program to help eliminate potential troublemakers at the US Postal Service (USPS).

Abstract

A key component of the employee screening program (revamped in 1994) is that the Federal Government's Office of Personnel Management will perform a fingerprint check of any USPS new-hire personnel using the records from the FBI. Job applicants are first evaluated as to whether they meet basic suitability requirements. Next they undergo a preliminary background check, including an in-depth personal interview. The next stage includes a drug screen, local criminal history check, and local employment check. Successful candidates then receive a conditional offer of employment, after which they undergo a medical assessment. During this probationary period, the new-hire undergoes a Special Agreement Check, which includes a fingerprint check, security/suitability evaluation, defense clearance, military records check, and employment/crime history. The article includes a list of keys to effective personnel screening.