The ID checking process for security guards

July 11, 2017

The ID checking process for security guards

 

As security professionals, there will be many checks we are required to perform. Here is a guide to what is involved as part of the ID checking process:

  • you must only accept valid, current and original documentation

 

  • you must not accept photocopies

 

  • you must not accept documentation printed from the internet e.g. internet bank statements

 

  • identity information for the applicant’s name, date of birth and address recorded in section A and section B on the DBS application form must be validated

 

  • you should in the first instance, seek documents with photographic identity (e.g. passport, new style driving licence, etc.) and for this to be compared against the applicant’s likeness

 

  • all documents must be in the applicant’s current name as recorded in section A

 

  • one document must confirm the applicant’s date of birth as recorded in section A

 

  • you must ensure that the applicant declares all previous name changes, and provides documentary proof to support the change of name. If the applicant is unable to provide proof to support the change of name, you should hold a probing discussion with the applicant about the reasons why before considering to validate their identity

 

  • you must see at least one document to confirm the applicant’s current address as recorded in section B, in accordance with the guidance

 

  • you must provide a full and continuous address history covering the last five years. Where possible you should seek documentation to confirm this address history

 

  • you should cross-match the applicant’s address history with any other information you have been provided with as part of the recruitment, such as their Curriculum Vitae (CV). This can highlight if an address has not been given e.g. if the applicant’s CV shows that they have worked in Liverpool in the last five years, but the application form only shows London addresses, you may wish to question the applicant further about this

 

  • a document from each of the groups should be included only once in the document count e.g. don’t accept two bank statements as two of the required documents, if they are from the same bank

 

  • you should not accept the foreign equivalent of an identity document if that document is listed as ‘(UK)’ on the list of valid identity documents

 

It’s important to note that a DBS check does not provide evidence of a person’s right to work in the UK. You may also need to complete a right to work check on the person to make sure they can work in the UK.