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Q clearance is the highest security clearance available with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and Department of Energy. It authorizes individuals to access highly confidential information related to nuclear research. The clearance requires a Single Scope Background Investigation and extensive in-person interviews. Certain factors, such as criminal activity or allegiance to a foreign government, may disqualify an individual. The clearance must be periodically renewed and can be revoked at any time.
Q clearance is a type of security clearance used by the Department of Energy and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), along with many US government agencies. This is the highest safety clearance available with the NRC. QA clearance means that an individual is authorized to view highly confidential documents and other information pertaining to nuclear research.
The intent of a Q authorization is to ensure that sensitive information does not fall into dangerous hands. Because the data covered relates to nuclear studies, it could potentially be used to create weapons of mass destruction or by a hostile country. In general terms, this permission indicates that a person is trustworthy and not likely to misuse important information.
Several steps are required before an individual is issued a Q Clearance. An applicant must undergo a Single Scope Background Investigation (SSBI). The SSBI process is similar to the one used for top secret Department of Defense security clearances. This investigation is usually conducted by a federal law enforcement agent or team of agents. This survey is used to verify and check an individual’s honesty and trustworthiness.
During an SSBI, agents verify a candidate’s previous employment and education background. A criminal background check is also conducted, which reveals whether a person has been arrested anywhere in the United States. Organizational affiliations and previous places of residence are also verified. Unlike lower clearances such as the Secret level, a Q clearance investigation involves extensive in-person interviews with neighbors and acquaintances.
Certain factors may immediately disqualify an individual applying for permission. A history of illegal drug use or criminal activity is usually disqualifying. Proof that a person lied during the application process or has allegiance to a foreign government may also preclude authorization. Poor credit history isn’t immediately disqualifying, but officers need to verify that an applicant doesn’t have any ongoing financial problems that would make them a potential target for bribery and coercion.
The QA authorization does not last forever, but must be periodically renewed. In order for the authorization to be reissued, another background check is performed for verification. After five years, a new investigation is required before the permit is reissued. It can be revoked at any time, if the issuing agency has reason to believe that an individual can no longer be entrusted with confidential secrets.
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