#DidYouKnow: Record Checks for Human Pathogens and Toxins Act Security Clearances

Did you know that under section 13 of the Human Pathogens and Toxins Regulations , once an application for a Human Pathogens and Toxins Act Security Clearance has been completed, the Minister must conduct record checks to determine whether an applicant may pose an undue risk to health or safety of the public. This includes a:

• criminal record check;
• check of the relevant files of law enforcement agencies, including intelligence gathered for law enforcement purposes;
• Canadian Security Intelligence Service security assessment; and
• credit check

The Minister may also request additional information from the applicant, to verify that they don’t pose any undue risk to the public.

Section 14 of the Human Pathogens and Toxins Regulations details the factors the Minister must consider to determine the level of risk posed by a Human Pathogens and Toxins Act Security Clearance applicant. Examples include:

• previously revoked security clearance;
• an applicant providing false information; and
• underlying events or convictions