should personnel files be kept in a locked file cabinet
Personnel files normally contain the employeeâs social security number and other personal information. They should be kept locked in a file cabinet at all times. Simply keeping them in an unlocked file cabinet in an office that is locked at night would not be sufficient. As long as the confidential files are kept in a separate, locked cabinet, with limited access to the key, in many cases that would be sufficient.
OPM has established security requirements and retention standards for the. permanent records in the file. According to the guidance, agencies should secure. personnel records against unauthorized access by keeping them in locked metal file. cabinets or in a secure room.