Second-Line Review Model

Short Explanation

The Second-Line Review Model describes additive review levels, where higher-risk records move through more levels before they are finalized. The manager drafts and applies self-review checks, accountable for accuracy and completeness. HR review is required for MODERATE and HIGH-tier records, confirming that the file contains the basis for each conclusion before entry. Compliance escalates when HR identifies a trigger requiring escalation, covering systemic patterns or records with regulatory implications. Legal reviews CRITICAL-tier records and records in active or anticipated proceedings, from a litigation standpoint. Audit samples periodically across record populations as a retrospective check that identifies systemic gaps, not a pre-submission control. The reference is candid that secondary review does not always occur in practice, and that gap is what the structure is built to address. Each level is additive rather than a replacement for the one before it.

Why It Matters

The most consequential records are the ones most likely to skip a second look. An explicit additive structure ties review depth to risk, so elevated and critical files are not finalized on a single pass.

Reviewer Questions

• Has this record passed the review levels its tier requires before finalization?
• Did HR confirm the file contains the basis for each conclusion for an elevated-risk record?
• Was compliance escalation applied where a trigger indicated a systemic or regulatory issue?
• Are CRITICAL records and records in anticipated proceedings routed to legal before submission?

Common Failure Pattern

Related JRS Sections