Pamela Devata and Scott Paler published in HR Advisor
“Safe Screening, Safe Hiring”

Pamela Devata and Scott Paler’s article, “Safe Screening, Safe Hiring,” was published in the August 2009 issue of HR Advisor. Their article discusses the importance of employment screening programs and provides guidelines for organizations to follow when implementing a policy and conducting employment background checks.

According to their article, employers can accomplish several goals by establishing a formal employment screening program that properly incorporates background checks into the hiring and on-boarding process. For instance, Pam and Scott note that screening programs can help lead to a safer, more secure work environment for customers and coworkers because employers know who they are hiring. However, they also warn that organizations need to be aware of the various federal, state and local laws to avoid any potential legal or financial risks if the checks are conducted improperly.

Pam and Scott offer guidance on creating and executing a written background screening policy and procedure, which can protect an organization by mitigating risk, avoiding litigation, and reducing the operating costs of the organization. They conclude, “The more time you spend thinking through your screening program, the less time you will need to spend defending your screening program later.”