(BrightPress.org) – Recent findings from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) have spotlighted ongoing security gaps in federal buildings. The GAO’s report, released on July 23rd, reveals that the Federal Protective Service (FPS) fails to detect prohibited items in half of the checks conducted. This shortfall was uncovered through live audits where FPS guards missed dangerous items in about 50% of the cases.
FPS, tasked with securing federal facilities and screening visitors, manages over 13,000 contract guards. These guards are responsible for monitoring access and ensuring that prohibited items are not brought into federal buildings. In early 2024, GAO investigators carried out 27 covert tests across 14 federal sites. During these tests, prohibited items like batons and pepper spray went unnoticed by FPS guards in roughly half of the attempts.
Internal covert tests conducted by FPS echoed the GAO’s findings. The FPS is working on reforms to address these security weaknesses, including revamping initial training, increasing on-the-job training, and gathering data to pinpoint common failure points in their security checks.
The report also pointed out issues with FPS’s data systems, which have been problematic since their introduction. The Post Tracking System, intended to ensure guards are properly assigned and supervised, has yet to be fully implemented. Problems with technology and data reliability have hindered its effectiveness. In some cases, outdated paper systems are still used for billing and oversight because the data from the new system is often inaccurate.
The GAO’s report highlights the urgency of improving guard training and oversight. Previous covert tests, such as those from 2009, showed similar issues, including undetected improvised explosive device components. Despite recommendations for better training and systems, security vulnerabilities persist.
With a budget of nearly $1.7 billion for contract guards in fiscal year 2024, the FPS must address these long-standing issues to ensure the safety of federal facilities. As ongoing reviews continue, the focus remains on enhancing the effectiveness of FPS’s security measures and data systems.
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