Most employers know the value of running background checks before hiring. But what about after an employee has been on the job for a year, five years, or even longer? Circumstances change, and so can the risks to your business.

Periodic re-screening, sometimes called “re-verification”, is a proactive way to protect your organization, your team, and your reputation.

Why Re-Screening Matters

Even trusted employees can face personal or legal issues that impact their suitability for certain roles. A clean background check from years ago doesn’t guarantee the same today.

Common reasons re-screening catches issues include:

New criminal charges or convictions that occur after hiring.
Changes in driving records for employees who operate company vehicles.
Lapsed licenses or certifications in regulated industries.
Compliance requirements in industries like healthcare, finance, and education.

High-Risk Roles Benefit Most

While periodic checks can benefit every organization, they’re especially valuable for:

Employees with access to sensitive financial or personal data.
Staff in safety-sensitive positions (e.g., driving, heavy equipment operation).
Roles that require active professional licenses.
Positions with direct interaction with vulnerable populations.

How Often Should You Re-Screen?

The right frequency depends on your industry, risk level, and legal requirements. Common practices include:

Annual checks for high-security or regulated roles.
Every 2–3 years for most other positions.
Trigger-based screening when an employee changes roles or responsibilities.

Communicating With Your Team

Transparency is key. Let employees know upfront, ideally in the hiring process, that re-screening is part of your workplace safety and compliance policy. This helps build trust and reduces pushback later.

Re-screening isn’t about mistrust, it’s about maintaining the same level of diligence you had before the first day of work. Done right, it can help you spot risks early, meet regulatory obligations, and protect your organization’s reputation.

Need Help with Background Checks or Compliance?
Whether you’re hiring new talent or updating your screening processes, the Swailes Background Check team is here to help. From criminal background checks and FCRA compliance to drug testing, employment and education verifications, MVR reports, credit history reviews, and Social Security number validation, we provide fast enrollment and expert support every step of the way.