Employment application forms must be worded carefully

Employers have become increasingly aware of the importance of knowing if an applicant has a criminal record. Employers have a legal duty to make reasonable inquiries about who they hire, and to provide a safe workplace.
An employer who hires a person with a criminal record can be found liable for negligent hiring should the hiring decision result in harm. This can be avoided by a simple criminal record check. Checking criminal records demonstrates due diligence and is also an important preventative measure against workplace violence.

One of the most effective tools an employer has is the use of an employment application form in the hiring process. An application enables an employer to directly ask an applicant if they have a criminal record. The advantage is that an employer can use a well worded application form to discourage applicants with something to hide, and to encourage applicants to be open and honest.

There are, however, some limitations involved. Employers should make sure that their applications are legal. Read more...