The Common Types Of Background Checks That Your Employers May Conduct

There are different types of background checks that your employers may conduct on their employees. These include identity verification through background checks, criminal history screening, and drug testing. It would be best if you understood what these processes are used for before you apply for a job. These processes are used for a variety of reasons. These reasons include safety, security, and employee productivity.

Identity Verification

Many employers perform criminal background checks to ensure that their new hires are trustworthy. These checks can reveal a variety of red flags, including violent offenses, sex crimes, and embezzlement convictions. Employers do these checks to protect themselves, their company, and their clients. The types of background checks that employers perform depend on their needs. For example, government positions require more thorough inspections than healthcare positions.

Background checks also verify the applicant’s identity. This is vital for job security, as people may misrepresent their identity to get a job. Using a social security number is an excellent way to check a candidate’s identity, which helps employers ensure they’re hiring a trustworthy employee.

In addition to identifying criminal records, background checks can include a person’s employment and address history. Some employers will conduct background checks using a person’s fingerprints. A fingerprint background check can also reveal a person’s naturalization and military service records. Though fingerprint-based checks are not the most comprehensive, many industries require fingerprint-based background checks as part of their screening process.

Whether or not your prospective employer will perform a background check is something that you can discuss with your potential employer. Although every employer has policies and procedures for obtaining such information, the best way to protect yourself is to be upfront and honest when filling out an employment application. Your future employer will also be able to verify your previous employment history through your professional references.

Criminal History Screening

Criminal history screening is a type of background search that employers do on prospective employees. It involves searching various databases to identify a person’s past criminal history. The databases may include federal, state, and county court records. Depending on the search method, different offenses may be reported. For instance, a national criminal record search might only report criminal activity in one state. In comparison, a statewide record search will show illegal activity in more than one state. Criminal history screening is considered a foundational element of most employment screening programs, but employers may also perform other checks depending on the job.

Background checks are essential to keep both employers and employees safe. They can prevent dangerous incidents and protect customers. Unfortunately, workplace crimes happen daily, and failing to screen employees can put the safety of everyone in the business at risk. You don’t want to hire a person with a violent criminal history, so you should always carry out a criminal history check.

Drug Testing

If you’re a job applicant, you may have noticed that your prospective employer may condition their offer on passing a drug screening. This may involve submitting a urine sample, which undergoes an initial and confirmation screening before the results are provided to the employer. In addition, some employers may use urine tests as a random screening program for existing employees. This test effectively lets an employer know whether a prospective employee has recently used drugs.

Most companies require drug and alcohol testing of employees in their workplace, and some laws regulate the procedure. For example, commercial vehicle drivers cannot use marijuana or prescribed substances when they operate a commercial vehicle. Some industries, such as healthcare, may not be legally required to test, but they generally follow company policies and procedures. Additionally, many hourly positions require drug tests.

Before implementing a drug testing policy, employers should review the state and federal laws and decide what works best for their company. After making these decisions, they should also research drug testing companies and set up a testing protocol acceptable to their employees. Once they’ve decided on a testing protocol, they should outline the requirements and the process for drug testing employees. It’s also a good idea to review the policy annually to ensure it’s up-to-date and relevant. A urine test will check for certain substances, such as marijuana, barbiturates, and benzodiazepines. It will also screen for synthetic cannabinoids and stimulants. A drug test will give employers the information they need to ensure their workplace and employees’ safety.