Are DBS Checks Required For Cleaners?
DBS checks were initially created to ensure that employees are appropriately vetted before working in jobs that involve coming into contact with, or taking care of, children and vulnerable adults. With the use of public and criminal records, the DBS allows employers to make safer recruitment decisions.
So by default, we know that teachers, nurses, and care home workers will naturally require a DBS check. But what about cleaners? Cleaners are required to apply for a DBS check before they start working in some cases.
Why Should A Cleaner Apply For A DBS Check?
As we discussed, DBS checks are used to ensure the safety of children and vulnerable adults by properly vetting workers coming into close contact with them.
Cleaners can also be called facility managers, which means they have unrestricted access to the facility they work in, from schools to homes to commercial offices. So there’s a good chance they’ll come in contact with children or vulnerable adults more often than not.
We have three levels of DBS check, each with its level of search depth.
- Basic DBS check
- Standard DBS check
- Enhanced DBS check
The level of DBS check that cleaners need to apply for will depend mainly on where they work. Here are the DBS checks required depending on the workplace.
Cleaners In Care Homes
Care homes are typically filled with children or vulnerable adults, and the cleaner will often come into contact with those vulnerable groups. It is crucial that the cleaner is appropriately vetted to ensure safety.
An Enhanced DBS check is required when working in care homes, as a thorough check of personal background and criminal records will facilitate informed recruiting decisions.
Cleaners In Schools
Schools primarily contain children of extremely vulnerable ages. As we discussed earlier, a cleaner has access to classrooms and toilets, and a DBS check is required for all cleaners to protect the children.
An Enhanced DBS check will reveal all the information employers need to be wary about. The employer will know if the cleaner is barred from working with or around children.
Cleaners In Hospital
Hospitals are also filled with vulnerable adults, which means workers in the hospital need to have a clean criminal record and work history, including cleaners.
A standard or enhanced DBS check will be acceptable since they go into more depth with the vetting.
Self-Employed or Freelance Cleaner
A freelancer or self-employed cleaner will need to apply for a basic DBS check since employers will still require it before hiring.
If a self-employed cleaner is asked to complete more roles involving coming in contact with children, they must apply for an Enhanced DBS check before starting.
If a cleaner from abroad comes into the UK, they will still be vetted. This can be done by contacting the police force in their country to obtain a Police certificate, which is acceptable in the UK for abroad workers.
If you need to request a lost certificate, you can contact our trusted advisors today to guide you through how to get started on your application.
