Why are DBS checks important?
Background checks are a common requirement for many employees and contractors, but why are DBS checks important?
Any time a new employee or contractor enters into a business, they represent an unknown factor, something which can potentially destabilise the whole operation. DBS checks allow for an added degree of security, ensuring that nothing is being hidden.
In this article we explore why DBS checks are useful, to help you make a more informed decision when getting one done.
What are DBS checks?
To understand why DBS checks are important, first, it’s important to look at what the checks consist of. DBS stands for the Disclosure and Barring Service, a non-departmental government body that was formed in 2012. They are responsible for carrying out background checks on individuals, checking different databases depending on what the check is focusing on.
There are three different levels of DBS check:
- Basic check: this checks for unspent convictions and warnings and is a common requirement in a wide range of industries, from hospitality to retail.
- Standard check: the standard check covers the above but also looks for spent convictions and warnings. It’s a common requirement for security guards and similar roles, and it can only be requested for individuals applying for specific jobs.
- Enhanced check: the enhanced check looks in even more detail for any relevant background issues beyond criminal convictions. Like the standard check, it can only be requested for certain jobs, which include roles in education, healthcare and other areas with potentially vulnerable individuals.
Why are background checks important?
DBS checks, through going through the above information, help to ensure that the workplace remains as safe an environment as possible. In health and social care, it’s a legal requirement to carry out these checks, as it’s imperative that the individuals being cared for aren’t exposed to any potential dangers.
There are other areas where DBS checks are a legal requirement, and failure to carry out checks can result in significant legal ramifications. It’s the employer’s responsibility to find out whether they need to need to have checks carried out; if there are any doubts, it’s always best to seek the advice of a check provider, to help avoid any confusion.
Protect your employees
Carrying out DBS checks helps to ensure that your employees can work in a safe and stable environment. Using a service from providers like Personnel Checks, businesses can opt for detailed DBS checks to ensure that any and all checks are completed to an advanced level with the utmost regard for safety in the workplace.
This leads to increased employee satisfaction and better employee retention rates. In the current volatile job market, this is especially important; the recruitment process can be long and expensive, so it’s especially important that it’s done right the first time.
Protect your business
Issues arising from dangerous employees can be incredibly damaging to your business in the long-term. If people start to perceive your brand as dangerous or volatile, it can be very difficult to undo that perception. DBS checks help to ensure that employee-related damages, such as data leaks, are kept to an absolute minimum.
