Everything You Need to Know About BPSS (Baseline Personnel Security Standard)

BPSS (Baseline Personnel Security Standard) is the required level of screening for any individuals working with or on behalf of a government department. BPSS checks were created to help reduce the risk of illegal workers, identity fraud and overall protect national security. These checks are usually conducted pre-employment.

BPSS is a standard level of screening in the communications, energy and financial sectors. This type of check confirms the identity of individuals when working with potentially sensitive information. The cost of a BPSS check is £115.00 per application and the average turnaround time is 7-10 working days.

Why is it necessary?

BPSS checks are seen by the government as an important precaution to confirm the identity of an individual (employee or contractor) and their rights to work in the UK. These types of checks are often required when securing government contracts / government related work providing a level of assurance as to those individuals trustworthiness, honestly, integrity and values required for the job position. BPSS checks mitigate the risks associated with individuals working with potentially sensitive information.

What information is included in this type of check?

A BPSS check consists of verification made up of the following 4 parts (RICE):

• Right to work– Nationality and Immigration Status (including an entitlement to undertake the work in question)
• Identity– ID Data check (electronic identity authentication- name, address, aliases, links, accounts, etc.)
• Criminal Records– Search for unspent convictions only (Basic Disclosure)
• Employment history check– Confirmation of past 3 years employment (minimum) history / activity

In addition, candidates are required to disclose any significant periods spent abroad (6 months or more in the past 3 years).

How can contractors apply for these types of checks?

At CBS we have recognised that applying for a BPSS check has previously been a difficult and complex process for contractors/individuals. We have developed a robust but simple process to meet the screening needs of these individuals.  We are able to accept the screening applications through our eScreening portal and then upon completion, the data is transferred securely to the applicant, summarised and ready to be presented to prospective employers.  Our system is user friendly and with our staff on hand to answer any queries you may have applying for a BPSS check has never been simpler.

CBS has recently seen a huge increased in the applications for BPSS checks and an increasing number of employers are now realising that pre-employment screening only provides an assessment of an individual at that one point in time. Re-screening employees mitigates the risk to an organisation, ensures that employees are still suitable for the position, especially if the employees role has changed and reassures the organisation that they meet industry standards.

If you have any questions surrounding BPSS checks or any other screening requirements please do not hesitate to contact us today.