Security guards play an important role in ensuring the safety of individuals and physical assets. Considering the high levels of trust and responsibility their roles embody, it’s essential that employers ensure their integrity. 

One tool that can be used to do this is DBS checks, as they ensure that security guards are not only skilled but also reliable. In this blog, we take a look at the link between safety and trust, as well as the importance of subjecting security guards to DBS checks. 

What are DBS Checks?

A DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is basically a type of check that is carried out to see whether an individual has a criminal history. 

DBS checks are often used by employers to determine whether a person is a suitable fit for the role they are applying to. This is especially important for roles where safeguarding is necessary. 

For example, an employer looking to hire a teacher or carer would want to ensure that an applicant hasn’t been banned from working with children or vulnerable adults. 

There are three types of DBS checks that can be carried out: basic, standard and enhanced checks. 

Basic DBS Check

This can be considered the most basic level of the three background checks. Individuals and employers can request a basic check, and the results will indicate whether the individual has any unspent convictions. 

Standard DBS Check

Going one level up from the basic check is the standard DBS check. Individuals cannot request this check themselves; rather, the organisation or employer they are applying to will need to request it. It goes one step further than the basic check, showing additional information, including spent convictions, warnings, cautions, and reprimands.

Enhanced DBS checks 

An enhanced check highlights all the same information as a Standard check, as well as any additional information that local police have on file that may be relevant to the role.

Employers or third-party organisations can also request a check against the barred lists, which will indicate whether the person has been banned from working with vulnerable groups (such as children and the elderly). 

Why Should Security Guards Undergo DBS Checks?

Security guards hold a significant amount of responsibility, which means a high degree of trust is placed in them. When you consider this, as well as the vital role these professionals play in protecting both people and the environments in which they work, it’s easy to see why they should have DBS checks. 

What role do security guards play in safety?

Security guards work in a variety of settings, including office buildings, events and even residential communities. In these environments, these professionals play a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of those they have been employed to protect. 

In addition to this, security guards are also often tasked with protecting physical premises or assets as well. They can often be found doing patrols, monitoring surveillance systems and controlling access to the environments they protect. They are often the first person to respond in the case of an emergency, offering assistance or deterring criminals when necessary. 

Considering the significant role security guards play in safety, it’s easy to see that a high degree of trust is necessary. The employers of security guards will want to know that they can rely on these professionals without question, which is why they are often required to undergo a DBS check before being hired. 

What type of DBS check does a security guard need?

Security guards and other professionals in the private security industry must obtain a licence from their regulating body, the Security Industry Authority (SIA). As a part of this application, individuals will need to undergo a standard DBS check as a minimum. 

However, if a security guard is applying for a role in which they will be protecting or in contact with vulnerable people, then they will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check (with barred lists).

What legal considerations must employers keep in mind?

DBS checks form an integral part of the employment process. However, employers must always refer to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act of 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975, which stipulates exactly which roles require standard or enhanced DBS checks, including those working in the security industry. 

While the SIA does require individuals to undergo standard checks before being issued a license, employers must never neglect their duty to conduct background checks themselves. Should a security guard cause harm to someone and be found to have an undisclosed criminal history, the employer may well face legal liabilities. 

Of course, security professionals should also understand their right to confidentiality. Employers must handle DBS checks and the information they contain with care and confidentiality. 

Final Thoughts: DBS checks for security guards 

In conclusion, DBS checks for security guards play a vital role in ensuring the integrity and trustworthiness of these professionals. If you are looking for assistance, consider DBS Checks Online. Our process is quick and straightforward, giving you peace of mind.