Workplace Safety and the Imperative of Background Screening Regularly

By Susie Thomson, Chief Operating Officer at Matrix

Posted originally on 17^th May 2024 on Professional Security Magazine Online

In a significant step towards enhancing public safety, recent legislation has been introduced to prevent sex offenders from changing their names to evade detection. This legislative change marks a crucial advancement in protecting our communities, but it also highlights the indispensable role of stringent background screening in the hiring process.

The Importance of Rigorous Background Checks

Susie Thomson, Chief Operating Officer at Matrix, emphasises the importance of employers being vigilant in verifying the backgrounds of prospective employees. While legal measures serve as deterrents, they are not foolproof. The real challenge lies in ensuring that these offenders do not slip through the cracks of the employment process.

The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certification is a vital tool in this regard. It provides essential insights into an individual’s criminal history, including any sexual offences, which is particularly crucial for roles involving vulnerable demographics. However, a common pitfall is that DBS checks are often only conducted at the time of employment and not routinely rechecked thereafter. To maintain a safe work environment, it is so important that DBS checks are performed at least annually. This proactive approach helps in mitigating the risk of any offences that might occur post-employment, ensuring continuous compliance and safety.

Balancing Rehabilitation and Safety

While it is important to support the rehabilitation and reintegration of ex-offenders into the workforce, it is equally critical to thoroughly vet their potential roles. Placing a convicted sex offender in a position where there is a temptation to re-offend poses significant risks. It is essential to strike a balance between rehabilitation and the safety of employees and customers.

Preventing offenders from changing their names without prior police approval is a vital step in maintaining accountability and protecting public safety. However, addressing the root issue involves preventing these offenders from securing employment in roles that pose inherent risks.

Proactive Measures Beyond Legislation

While we commend the government’s commitment to enhancing safeguarding measures and the advocacy efforts of campaigners like Labour MP Sarah Champion, it is clear that legislation alone cannot fully address the complexities of workplace safety. Employers must take a proactive stance by implementing robust background screening practices.

The foundation of addressing identity-related challenges lies in proactive measures such as thorough background screening. By promoting best practices in background screening, we can support organizations in upholding the highest standards of safety and security, making workplaces safer for everyone.

In conclusion, while recent legislative changes are a significant step forward, the responsibility also lies with employers to maintain a vigilant and proactive approach to background screening. Together, we can ensure the well-being of our workplaces and communities.

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