BPSS stands for Baseline Personnel Security Standard, which is the recognized standard for the pre-employment screening of individuals with access to government assets. It is not a formal security clearance, but its rigorous and consistent application underpins the national security vetting process at CTC, Level 1B, SC, and DV. BPSS is the minimum level of security clearance for all DFID employees, and it forms the basis of higher levels of clearances that may be required. The checks involved in BPSS include successful completion of the Baseline Personnel Security Standard, completion of a Security Questionnaire by the individual, and a departmental/company records check, which might include personal files, staff reports, sick leave returns, and security records. BPSS is a standard level of screening in the communications, energy, and financial sectors. To get BPSS clearance, an individual needs to undergo a BPSS check, which is a UK background check that confirms the identity of the individual.