plant clearance

[newbie2010]

I have a question regarding plant clearance.  Basically I have something in my past that may hurt me, but for my question it really doesn't matter.  If one plant denies your unescorted access is it worthwhile to try and go to another plant? 

Please correct me if any of this is wrong.  From what I understand each plant must follow DOE/NRC guidelines but do have leeway and discretion in regards to granting unescorted access.  If one plant denies your access it gets stored in a database that other plants can access.  So basically I am under the assumption that it is possible to get a clearance at one plant and not the other, but it is unlikely because plants will just follow what others did?   Who actually performs the background checks, is it a particular agency or is it the plant itself? 

Thanks for anyones help.

[retread]

Rule #1, be honest in all your dealings with security!!!!   You'd be amazed at the things they will allow one to get away with if you are just honest and upfront about it.  You would also be amazed at the things they can and do, find.  One question you will be asked is if you have ever been denied a clearance.  In which case, remember rule #1.  Good luck and try to follow threads regarding security clearances.

[newbie2010]

I will be upfront and honest so I am hoping that everything works out.  The main reason I ask all of this is because I have applied to several plants. 

[rumrunner]

>>Who actually performs the background checks, is it a particular agency or is it the plant itself?<<

It depends.  Some contract companies are approved to do their own investigations, yet others are not.  And it can depend on the utility as to whether they accept an outside investigation.  Some utilities have a contractor do all their background checks, yet some do it in-house.  Too many variables to worry about or list here.  Just know that it will be done and it will be thorough.  They all know that the names you provide as references will shower you with praise, so they'll dig deeper looking for 2nd or 3rd layers beyond the names you provide. 

A bad thing in your past isn't an automatic disqualifier.  For example, I know of someone who spent a year in prison who has unescorted access.  It depends on what the "bad" is.