There are some jobs that require a criminal record check that seem obvious. For example, teachers, doctors and carers in care homes. It’s easy to see why jobs involving regular contact with children or care for vulnerable adults require DBS checks.
However, there are some unexpected jobs where having a criminal record check is mandatory.
Here are six jobs that require a criminal record check that may surprise you:
Scrap metal dealer
Scrap metal dealers must obtain a scrap metal licence from their local council before they can operate.
As a condition of granting the licence, councils require everyone named on the licence application to provide a basic disclosure certificate.
A basic disclosure reveals any unspent convictions the applicant has. Anyone can apply for a basic disclosure on themselves.
The basic disclosure helps councils ascertain whether applicants are suitable to hold a scrap metal licence. If applicants have been convicted of certain offences they will be refused a licence.
Chartered accountant
Chartered accountants are specifically listed as an ‘excepted profession’ in the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975.
Professions listed in this piece of legislation require a standard DBS check. A standard DBS check will reveal any spent or unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands or warnings the applicant has.
When you think about it, it’s not so surprising that accountants require a DBS check. Being an accountant requires a high level of responsibility.
Accountants are responsible for measuring, reporting and giving advice on significant financial matters for companies and individuals, whose major financial decisions may then be based on this advice.
Not all convictions will prevent an applicant from becoming a chartered accountant – but those involving fraud or financial misconduct are likely to.
Please note, though, that a DBS check can only be applied for on entry to the profession.
Pest control
People working in pest control may often have to operate in schools, nursing homes or hospitals.
Working in these locations would require them to undergo a DBS check, which would need to be applied for through their relevant organisation.
On entry to the profession, however, only a basic disclosure is required.
Traffic warden
Being a traffic warden involves a high level of contact with the general public, which may include children and/or vulnerable adults.
Like chartered accountants, traffic wardens are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act, and are therefore eligible for a standard DBS check.
Member of the Master Locksmiths Association
Anyone who applies to become a member of the Master Locksmiths Association will be required to undergo a standard DBS check, which must be applied for through the MLA.
Being a locksmith involves being given the keys to homes, schools or hospitals, where children or vulnerable adults may be present.
Bar supervisor
Anyone who supervises a premises licensed to serve alcohol must hold a personal licence to sell alcohol.
Applicants for personal licences need to submit a basic disclosure along with their application to confirm their suitability to hold the licence.
6 surprising jobs that require a criminal record check: a summary
Some of the jobs that require a criminal record check may at first glance seem surprising. But if you delve a little deeper, it makes sense that these roles require checks.
Criminal record checks exist to help businesses and organisations make safe recruitment decisions, and to prevent people from undertaking roles they’re not suitable for.
Be sure to get in touch with us if you have any further questions. You can apply for a number of DBS Checks through our simple online platform – most checks are completed within 48 hours. Get started now.
