KSA Professional Standards & Ethics 5

Question 1

Which best describes a whistleblower disclosure that is protected by law?

Accepted Answer

A disclosure of information the employee reasonably believes shows a violation of law, gross mismanagement, or a substantial danger to public safety

Answer

The Whistleblower Protection Act protects disclosures reasonably believed to evidence violations, gross waste, or danger.

Question 2

During a structured interview, a panel member recognizes a candidate as a close friend. What should the panel member do?

Accepted Answer

Disclose the relationship and recuse from the evaluation

Answer

Disclosure and recusal protect the fairness and integrity of merit-based selection.

Question 3

Why must employees protect nonpublic information obtained through their job?

Accepted Answer

It may not be used to further private interests, such as personal investments

Answer

Federal rules prohibit using nonpublic information for personal gain or to benefit others.

Question 4

A KSA asks for the ability to work under pressure ethically. Which example is strongest?

Accepted Answer

I met a tight deadline by reporting a data error rather than concealing it, and corrected the report

Answer

Strong examples show integrity under pressure, including transparency about errors and corrective action.

Question 5

What is the main purpose of annual financial disclosure reports for covered employees?

Accepted Answer

To identify and prevent potential conflicts of interest

Answer

Reports such as the OGE Form 450 and SF 278 let ethics officials detect and resolve conflicts.

KSA - Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Practice Test