Look beyond state requirements.

Certain states perform background checks.  Standards, however, vary from state to state as no comprehensive federal guidelines now exist.  It is important to know these standards and to determine if they meet your organization's unique needs.

Most security guard companies perform background checks, but clients need to know the details of these checks including the frequency that they are performed, the qualifications of the person(s) performing them, and the components of the checks.

When are they done?

Some companies perform annual background checks.  Others only research the applicant's background before hiring and do not revisit the issue.  Life events don't stop after a guard is hired.  Things can happen at any time to affect a guard's outlook and behavior.  Regular background checks can help identify problems before they become serious issues.

Who performs the checks?

Clients should assess the qualifications of those conducting the background checks.  Are the checks handled internally or are they outsourced?  What qualifications/experience do the investigators have?  These types of questions can help determine if a vendor's background check procedures are adequate.

What's included?

Some companies review driving records; some do not.  Some companies investigate credit history, while some ignore this area.  These examples show how background checks can differ among vendors.  Criminal checks, education investigations, and reference interviews are a few other areas that may be important to your organization.

Background checks are a vital aspect of a security guard vendor's services.  Find out what the current practices are and, if going out to bid, include detailed questions for all participating vendors.