Although many people know the importance of a DBS Check, there can be times when a business needs clarification on how often a DBS Check should be carried out. The frequency of DBS Checks can depend on several factors, including the following.
What Type of DBS Check is Needed?
Although many assume that all DBS Checks are the same, there are three levels. The Basic DBS Check is suitable for many day-to-day roles and can be requested by the individual or business.
Where a Basic DBS Check will show unspent criminal convictions and cautions, an Enhanced DBS will also detail spent convictions, cautions and reprimands. Only a business can request an Enhanced DBS Check, which will often be carried out when roles involve children or vulnerable adults.
Do DBS Checks Expire?
A common misconception regarding DBS Checks is that they have an expiry date, but this isn’t the case. DBS Checks are certificates that detail any crimes and convictions recorded at the time. To ensure there are no new cautions, convictions, or entries on the Barred Lists, businesses will need frequent DBS checks.
Updating DBS Checks
A DBS Check is only accurate when carried out, so the frequency of DBS Checks depends on the role. Basic DBS Checks may only be needed every two years, but this isn’t always the case.
As Standard and Enhanced DBS Checks are used for roles of responsibility, then this may be needed every few months. For example, those working with children must carry out an Enhanced DBS Check every three months in order to be Ofsted registered.
Completing DBS Checks Quickly: What Options are Available?
Although a business can need frequent DBS Checks, some may find that requesting them via conventional avenues is time-consuming and can mean that employee records are not always up to date.
Several factors can affect the completion time of a DBS Certificate, but they can take as long as eight weeks to arrive in some instances. Fortunately, other options are available.
Whether a business is carrying out background checks every three years or requires a DBS Check quickly, outsourcing the task to an external agency can offer several benefits.
In addition to streamlining the hiring process, receiving digital results in as little as one hour ensures that businesses can offer a position without waiting for the physical certificate. Furthermore, employers can be confident that records are up to date and that customers and other employees are always safeguarded.
The fastest way to complete a background check is to obtain the correct information in the first instance. Still, when using the service of a professional agency, businesses find that the whole process is easier to manage. It is also advisable to ensure that a policy is introduced so that the same processes are always used when requesting background checks.
