Guide To DBS Checks for Hospital Workers
DBS Checks within a hospital is vital. This is to ensure that both workers and patients are safe.
For this reason, we have put together information about which roles require certain levels of DBS check, as it may be confusing due to there being so many different positions within a hospital.
What DBS Checks are on offer?
Basic DBS Checks
These show any unspent convictions that the individual may have
Standard DBS Checks
These show any spent and/or unspent convictions, reprimands, warnings or final warnings that the individual may have.
Enhanced DBS Check
This does the same as a Standard Check, but also includes any information that may be convenient to know from the individual’s local police force. If it is suitable, a check of the adults’ and/or children’s barred list could also be done.
Any individual aged 16 or over can qualify for a Basic check, while Enhanced or Standard Checks must only be done in certain circumstances.
DBS Checks for hospital staff
Working with providing health, social or personal care, transporting patients to and/or from places, all count as a regulated activity. If the individual partakes in a regulated activity with adults and/or children, this means that they are suitable for an Enhanced DBS Check with a barred list check.
Not all jobs in a hospital include a regulated activity, as there are people working with admin, catering and maintenance. But nevertheless, some still require a DBS Check. For other roles, like caterers who do not work around patients, no check is needed. However roles like cleaners who work in close proximity with patients, a Standard DBS Check would be suitable.
Porters for Hospitals
The type of check suitable for porters depends on what or who is being transported.
For things like equipment and having access to patients, a Standard Check would be suitable.
On the other hand if they are moving patients then an Enhanced DBS Check would be required. This is because they would be engaging in a regulated activity which, as they are transporting patients from places of care, requires an Enhanced Check.
Hospital staff and DBS Checks: Conclusion
Hopefully this article has informed you about DBS Checks for hospital staff, as safeguarding is one of the main principles of care – especially in hospitals. The NHS Employers DBS eligibility tool may help to answer any remaining queries on what job requires what check.
If you want to find out more about DBS checks for hospital staff, get in touch today to talk to one of our expert advisers.
