Do volunteers Require Background Checks?
Background Checks for Volunteers
Background screening is increasing in use- not just in the private sector, but also in the public and nonprofit world. There is simply too much at stake for a company not to take precautions with potential new hires. But what about when it comes to volunteers who donate their time to help? Do these workers need background checks?
If your company uses volunteers for any of its functions, regardless of importance, it is a good idea to put in place some policies that include background checks. With unemployment rates high, this will have increasing importance as many will try to get back to work with a “foot in the door” via volunteerism.
The information you seek out will probably relate to the tasks the volunteer would be performing, but as always, we recommend you treat each volunteer applicant equally in terms of what you screen for. Is the potential volunteer going to handle money? Will they see after children or the elderly? Will they drive a company vehicle? These are all good questions to ask yourself heading into a search, that way you have an idea what pertinent information to look for.
Applying Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) guidelines to volunteers
A refresher could always be used when discussing guidelines in place for using a professional screening company. At the federal level, the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) guidelines lead the way. However, there are also regulations at the state and even in the local jurisdictional areas to be aware of. While not specific to volunteer placement, these are solid principles to follow when considering volunteer employment:
Taking advantage of quality volunteer help can go a long way in keeping a business afloat and moving forward during tough economic times. Helping to navigate their use is where a professionally accredited firm like Risk Assessment Group is key to your future success.
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