When employing and screening in Canada, there are a few key things you must consider when reviewing yourbackground checkprocess. When implementing or evaluating your background check program, besure to take the following six requirements into consideration.
1. Informed Consent
It is important that the employer seeks upfront candidate consent to disclosure of personal information and the purpose for it, prior to undergoing checks in Canada.
2. Candidate Disclosure
Employers in Canada may givecandidates the opportunity to declare any criminal convictions or offenses for which they have not been granted a pardon.
3. Appropriateness to the Position
In Canada, an employer must relate the background check to the position for which they are hiring. What kind of searches, checks and verifications are needed for the position being filled?
4. Dispute Process
An individual should be able to challenge the accuracy and completeness of the information and have it amended as appropriate.
5. Data Privacy
Employers must review and comply with thePersonal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act(PIPEDA), as well as the Privacy Act.
6. Province of Hire
Depending on province of hiring, please also consider and consult MFIPPA, PIPA and any province specific Human Rights, Freedom Acts, Data Privacy or Credit Consumer Reporting acts that must be adhered to.
If you keep these considerations in mind while implementing a background screening program, it should get you on the right track for acompliant and comprehensive process.
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