Is an Initial Background Check Sufficient for Your Protection?

To enhance workplace safety, many organizations choose to regularly check their employees’ backgrounds. This means the screening process doesn’t just happen when someone is hired—it continues periodically while they’re employed.

These background checks are often done randomly, every few months, or once a year. For example, one of our clients, whose business involves working with the public and vulnerable individuals, does yearly background checks on all staff and volunteers. These checks always look for criminal convictions and include searching a nationwide list of sex offenders.

When doing these types of background checks, it’s crucial to follow the rules of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and the guidance from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) on using criminal records. Laws can vary depending on where you are, so it’s important to know and follow local regulations. Just like with the initial background check when someone is hired, it’s best to protect the information and control who has access to it. This ensures that updates are handled properly and comply with privacy laws.

While some companies might think periodic background checks are unnecessary, others have found them really helpful in identifying any risks their employees might pose. If you’re considering doing these checks, it’s smart to talk to a lawyer first. You might discover that many other businesses are doing the same thing. If you think that doing a background check only once isn’t enough to keep your workplace safe, you’re not alone—lots of leaders are moving towards regular screening.

When your business seeks support in various crucial aspects like employment screening, criminal background checks, adherence to FCRA regulations, drug screening, verification of education and employment history, examination of driving records (MVR), credit assessments, or validation of social security numbers, reach out to the Swailes Background Team for prompt enrollment and comprehensive assistance.

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