Sigma Access Authorization for LANL Workers

The following summarizes key points about assigning and verifying Sigma authorizations for LANL workers.  NOTE: The Badge Office does not assign nor provide others with information on Sigma authorizations of LANL personnel.

Access to classified information is based on two key elements:

1. Clearance status of the individual
2. Need to know

BACKGROUND.  Department of Energy classified information with the classification category RESTRICTED DATA (RD) usually bears one or more Sigma numbers characterizing the specific type(s) of nuclear weapon information it contains. As part of DOE's need-to-know approach to classified information, an individual desiring access to information that bears a Sigma number must first be authorized to see that kind of Sigma information. For more information about Sigmas, review the Sigma Definitions, and/or contact S-7 or the S-5 Classified Matter Protection and Control (CMPC) Team

PROCEDURE TO ASSIGN SIGMAS.  The Laboratory has a procedure for indicating its own workers who are approved for accessing specific Sigma designations. Group Management, using the LaboratoryÙs Signature Authority System (SAS) can authorize a person in that Group to have specific Sigma designation approvals.

Sigma authorizations are automatically canceled:

• One-year after assignment;
• When there is a change in an individualÙs Cost Center (i.e., Org Code);
• Any change in security clearance status
• Any change in a Group's name and/or designation
• Upon separation from the Laboratory

The authorizing manager is notified by e-mail prior to the one-year expiration of each of Sigma authorization and whenever any authorizations have been canceled.

CHECKING SIGMA ASSIGNMENTS.  With the appropriate SAS authority, a Laboratory worker can check the Sigma assignments of another Laboratory worker.  Questions about how to assign Sigmas to Laboratory workers via the SAS, or to verify someoneÙs Sigma approvals, should be directed to the IM-2 EIA Consulting Team, 5-4444 (Select option 2 at the prompt).

PLEASE NOTE:

• The Badge Office DOES NOT advise or provide information on the Sigma authorization of Laboratory workers (e.g., UC employees, subcontractors, affiliates, vendors, etc.).
• The Badge Office DOES process requests from Laboratory hosts for Sigma access by visitors, as part of its Control of Classified Visits program.