It’s becoming increasingly important for employers to conduct thorough background checks on potential employees. Not only do these checks help ensure the safety and security of the workplace, but they also help employers make informed hiring decisions that can positively impact their business.
In this article, we’ll explore each of these types of background checks in greater detail and cover legal and ethical considerations to keep in mind.
Understanding the Importance of Employee Security Checks
Employers in the UK are responsible for ensuring a safe and secure workplace for their employees and customers. One of the most important ways they can achieve this is by conducting thorough employee security checks as part of the recruitment process.
Such checks are designed to screen out individuals who may pose a risk to the company, its employees, or its customers – either through intentional wrongdoing or negligent behaviour.
Types of Employee Background Checks
There are several different types of checks that employers may choose to carry out, depending on the needs of the role and the level of risk associated with the position.
Here are some of the most common types of background checks in the UK:
Criminal Record Checks
Criminal record checks are a type of background check that involve searching for any criminal convictions or cautions held by an individual, as well as any information about their criminal history that may be held by the police or other relevant authorities.
Enhanced DBS Checks
An Enhanced DBS Check, also known as an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service Check, is a type of criminal background check conducted in the UK and is typically required for roles such as teachers, social workers, and foster carers.
This comprehensive check not only includes information about convictions, cautions and reprimands, but it also checks for any additional information held by local police that’s considered relevant to the role the individual is being considered for.
Credit Checks
Credit checks involve assessing a candidate’s credit history and financial stability, and may be particularly relevant for roles that involve handling finances or sensitive information. However, they should only be undertaken where there is a genuine need for such checks.
Employment History Check
Employment history check involves verifying the accuracy of a candidate’s employment history by contacting their previous employers. This can help to confirm details such as job titles, dates of employment, and reasons for leaving, and can also help to identify any inconsistencies or red flags in a candidate’s employment history.
Education Background Check
Education background check involves checking the validity of a candidate’s qualifications, including any degrees, diplomas, or certificates they claim to hold.
This can help to ensure that a candidate has the necessary skills and knowledge for the role, and can also help to identify any instances of fraud or misrepresentation.
Professional Licence Checks
Professional licence checks involve verifying that a candidate holds any necessary licences or certifications required for the role, such as a driving licence or a medical licence.
This can help to ensure that a candidate is legally allowed to carry out the duties of the role and may also help to identify any inconsistencies or red flags in a candidate’s application.
The Legal and Ethical Considerations of Employee Screening
While conducting employee security checks can help to mitigate risks and ensure a safe working environment, it is also important for employers to balance this with the legal and ethical considerations.
Employers must comply with UK data protection laws, ensuring that they do not discriminate against candidates on the basis of characteristics such as age, gender, race, or religion, and respect the candidate’s right to privacy.
Therefore, it’s crucial for employers to have a clear and transparent screening process, and to obtain the candidate’s consent before conducting any checks.
Employers should also ensure that the screening process is tailored to the specific job requirements and that they use multiple sources of information to ensure accuracy and minimise the risk of bias.
Global Investigations’ Background Check Service
Here at Global Investigations, we provide comprehensive background check services, tailored to meet the needs of both private and corporate clients.
Our background checks are designed to provide a thorough understanding of an individual’s history, helping to mitigate risks and make informed decisions.
What’s more, we always work to a high level of discretion and professionalism, ensuring that all checks are conducted ethically and in compliance with UK data protection laws.
To find out more about our background checks, get in contact today with our friendly team. We are here to help and support you every step of the way.