Beta Testing Complete For National Association of Professional Background Screeners Accreditation Program

MORRISVILLE, N.C., May 26 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Association of Professional Background Screeners (NAPBS®) today announced the completion of beta testing for the Background Screening Agency Accreditation Program (BSAAP), the first ever industry-specific program of its kind. The BSAAP advances professionalism in the employment screening industry through the promotion of best practices, awareness of legal compliance and development of standards that protect consumers.

Consumer reporting is currently regulated at both the federal and state level, and NAPBS created the BSAAP to provide a cohesive standard for the background screening industry. Using a strict professional standard of requirements and measurements, the BSAAP is a seal of approval that brings national recognition to background screening-affiliated organizations known for their commitment to excellence, accountability, high professional standards and continued institutional improvement.  

"The BSAAP is the ultimate advantage in highly competitive environment," said Tracy Seabrook, CAE, executive director of NAPBS. "Accreditation strengthens a background screening firm's commitment to best practices, compliance and consumer protection; validates clients' trust in Credit Reporting Agencies (CRA); and minimizes risk in the workplace."

The BSAAP was announced at the 2009 NAPBS Annual Conference and underwent beta testing from August 2009 - May 2010. As part of the beta test process, the participating organizations provided feedback to validate and fine-tune the program, ensuring that all processes and procedures are impartial and provide appropriate assistance to accreditation applicants. The results from the beta group will be announced with the first class of accredited companies.

To become accredited, firms must pass a rigorous audit of all policies and procedures as they relate to six critical areas: consumer protection, legal compliance, client education, product standards, service standards, and general business practices. The NAPBS Background Screening Credentialing Council (BSCC) oversees the application process and ensures that all organizations seeking accreditation meet or exceed a measurable standard of competence in these areas.

Any U.S.-based employment screening organization is eligible to apply for accreditation. To review accreditation standards and audit criteria, please call 919.459.2082 or visit www.napbs.com.

About NAPBS®

Founded in 2003 as a non-profit trade association, the National Association of Professional Background Screeners (NAPBS) represents the interests of more than 700 member companies around the world that offer tenant, employment and background screening. NAPBS provides relevant programs and training aimed at empowering members to better serve clients and maintain standards of excellence in the background screening industry, and presents a unified voice in the development of national, state and local regulations. For more information, visit www.napbs.com.

SOURCE National Association of Professional Background Screeners