Security Asset Protection Professional Certification (SAPPC) Certification Practice Exam

Who initiates the personnel security investigation (PSI) process?

1. Subject of the investigation

2. Adjudicator

3. Investigator

4. FSO/Security Manager/Human Resource Officer

The correct answer is: FSO/Security Manager/Human Resource Officer

The personnel security investigation (PSI) process is typically initiated by individuals in positions of responsibility within an organization, such as the Facility Security Officer (FSO), Security Manager, or Human Resource Officer. These roles are crucial as they are responsible for overseeing security protocols and ensuring compliance with various regulations. They assess the need for a PSI based on factors such as an individual’s job function, the sensitivity of the position, and the potential impact to national security or organizational integrity. Given their overseeing responsibilities, these officials are in a position to identify when a PSI is necessary, and they take the lead on initiating the process. Their authority ensures that the process follows established guidelines and protocols, which helps maintain a consistent approach to security assessments across the organization. In contrast to those who initiate the process, the subject of the investigation is typically a candidate or employee who is undergoing the investigation, while the adjudicator makes determinations based on the findings from the investigation. The investigator is involved in gathering information during the PSI but does not initiate the process.