• Employers should complete a thorough background investigation on applicants as part of the company’s safety and security program.

One of the most critical elements of a successful safety and security program is the pre-employment screening process. Unfortunately, the importance of this relatively straightforward task is often overlooked.

Pre-employment investigations

Motor carriers can either do background investigations on applicants, or can hire a third-party provider. Background investigations may include a review of the applicant’s:

• Criminal convictions,
• Motor vehicle violations,
• Poor credit history, and/or
• Misrepresentations regarding education or work history.

But regardless of who completes the background investigation, the important point is that a thorough, accurate, and verified background investigation is done on each driver candidate before a hiring decision is made.

HR topics to review as you hire motor carrier employees: Americans with Disabilities Act and Discrimination.