New DSS Security Rating Matrix

On August 29, 2011, the Defense Security Service (DSS) began utilizing a newly designed security rating process to determine ratings assigned at the completion of a DSS National Industrial Security Program (NISP) inspection. The implementation is scheduled as follows:

• Capital Region: August 29, 2011
• Northern Region: September 26, 2011 (tentative)
• Southern/Western Region: October 24, 2011 (tentative)

DSS has revised the rating process by introducing a security rating calculation tool designed to provide a consistent and standardized rating process. The calculation worksheet is numerically based, quantifiable, and accounts for all aspects of a facility's participation in the NISP. DSS has announced that administrative findings corrected on the spot will be subtracted on the security matrix tool. In addition, point credits will given for NISP enhancements identified during inspection.

Once inspections are finalized, DSS will share the populated worksheet and rating results with the facility. Full transparency, including positive areas, security findings, and suggested improvements identified during the inspection, will be provided.

For additional information, please see the security clearance calculation template and Industry Frequently Asked Questions provided by DSS:

http://www.dss.mil/isp/fac_clear/documents/rating-calculation-worksheet.xls

For further information, please contact the following Armstrong Teasdale attorney: