Program Management through Self Inspections:
A Guide to Evaluating Security Administration

 In the contracting industry product evaluation is an integral aspect of the production process.  In most companies, products are not usually delivered before passing “quality control”.  This same principle should be true for the security program at cleared facilities.   In order to produce the highest quality and most comprehensive security product, a continuous review and evaluation of a security program with self inspections is essential.   After all, we are responsible for a very important product: our nation's security.   It is also important to note that the NISPOM requires that “Contractors shall review their security system on a continuing basis and shall also conduct a formal self inspection at intervals consistent with risk management principles.” [NISPOM 1-207b]        

Your tool to accomplish this task is “The Self Inspection Handbook” a copy of which is available for download.   “The Self Inspection Handbook” covers a variety of areas that may be involved in a security program.  As FSO you should review the checklist that precedes the handbook and decide which areas need to be reviewed in your program.  Security is different at every contractor so consider what you do and do not need in your inspection.   For example, if you do not possess classified material at your facility or do not operate Automated Information Systems you may not be interested in the sections on classified storage or Automated Information Systems. 

This Handbook is a tool for the FSO to utilize how ever you deem appropriate. Self Inspections should take place about once a year depending on your involvement in classified operations and the nature of your periodic review by the Defense Security Service.  You will want to avoid scheduling you self inspection right before or right after your annual assessment with DSS.  Ideally, the self inspection should be about six months after your DSS assessment so that your security program has a good review twice a year. 

Many times the Facility Security Officer at a company is tasked to do a lot more than security.   Making sure your security program is organized properly will ensure that your program is constantly on the right track so that you can concentrate on other duties that you administer at your company.        

As we move into a new millennium, take a day to “spring clean” your security program.   Use the “Self Inspection Handbook” to review and evaluate your security program.  The result will be a higher level of overall efficiency and security which benefits both the Facility Security Officer and our national security.