Which individual is responsible for accepting custodial responsibility for government property under their control?

The correct answer is that the property custodian is responsible for accepting custodial responsibility for government property under their control. A property custodian is specifically designated to manage and oversee the physical security and maintenance of government property. This includes responsibilities such as tracking inventory, ensuring proper use, conducting regular audits, and safeguarding the property against loss or damage.

This role is critical in material management because it establishes accountability for the physical assets of the government. The property custodian acts as the frontline representative in managing these assets effectively, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and protocols.

Other roles, like the item manager, accountable officer, and maintenance supervisor, may be involved in various aspects of property management, but their responsibilities do not encompass the direct custodial oversight that is the hallmark of the property custodian’s duties. The item manager focuses on broader inventory management, the accountable officer generally deals with financial accountability, and the maintenance supervisor oversees the operational aspects of property maintenance rather than having direct custodial responsibility.