Following are the steps an HR department can take when it comes to security personnel hiring to ensure minimal risk to the organization or its interests.

1. A human resources department should require all security personnel candidates to undergo a background check. Candidates can circumvent the intent of this step by lying about their past or providing false information. Organizations can prevent or mitigate this threat by conducting thorough background checks and verifying all information provided by the candidate. Since this step is typically conducted before an offer of employment is made, it is also important for organizations to have clear policies and procedures in place regarding what type of information would disqualify a candidate from being hired.

2. A human resources department should require all security personnel candidates to take a drug test and psychological evaluation. Candidates can circumvent the intent of this step by using drugs that are not detected by the drug test or by providing false information about their drug use. Organizations can prevent or mitigate this threat by conducting thorough background checks and verifying all information provided by the candidate. Furthermore, candidates can circumvent psychological evaluation tests by faking their results. Organizations can prevent or mitigate this threat by using qualified personnel to administer the tests and by having clear policies and procedures in place regarding what qualifies or disqualifies a candidate.

3. A human resources department should require all security personnel candidates to undergo a physical examination. Candidates can circumvent the intent of this step by lying about their health or by providing false information about their physical condition. Organizations can prevent or mitigate this threat by conducting thorough background checks and verifying all information provided by the candidate.