We’re often asked the question: do locksmiths need a DBS Check?
It’s a fair query as being a locksmith doesn’t immediately stand out as a career involving regular contact with children who are under the age of 18 or vulnerable adults of any age, at least in contrast to industries such as teaching or healthcare for example.
That is the main reason determining why professionals usually require DBS Checks, according to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 – however this is actually a key piece of legislation for locksmiths too, as will be discussed later.
So, do locksmiths need a DBS Check? Read on to find out…
Trusted locksmiths
The answer is that any locksmith who has been granted membership of the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) – more on this organisation later – will require a DBS Check.
The advantage of taking a DBS Check is that it shows the locksmith is trustworthy – the disclosure provides a certain degree of confidence that he or she is reliable.
Because of this, most locksmith organisations ensure their employees have undergone DBS Checks – therefore not having one would put locksmiths at a disadvantage to their rivals.
It also provides peace of mind to whoever owns the keys of the household or business in question.
Moreover, it’s worth bearing in mind that actually, locksmiths may well be working in places with children or vulnerable adults – such as schools or care homes – and in those situations, whether a member of the MLA or not, a Check may be required.
The Master Locksmiths Association
The MLA licenses its approved companies to ensure that locksmiths are independently vetted.
It also played a key role in making sure that locksmiths could prove their trustworthiness by undergoing a DBS Check.
In 2009, the MLA campaigned to have its members included in the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act’s list of professions requiring disclosure.
After a lengthy process involving discussions with the Home Office, Ministry of Justice and Criminal Records Bureau, followed by debates in the House of Commons and House of Lords, it was successful and the rest is history.
Please note: It is only the MLA who can apply for Standard Disclosures (on behalf of a locksmith).
Do locksmiths need a DBS Check? Summing up
Six years ago the answer would have been no, but now, locksmiths who are members of the MLA must undergo a DBS Check, as a way of demonstrating to the public that they are reputable and reliable.
If you would like to know more about DBS Checks for locksmiths, then please let us know and we can discuss it with you in greater detail.
