As a job candidate in South Africa, you might be asked to submit to a criminal record check as part of your job application process. This may seem daunting, but it is a necessary step for many employers to ensure they are hiring trustworthy and reliable candidates. Let’s have a closer look at why businesses do criminal record checks, why you should submit your details for criminal record checking, and how HURU helps both potential employees and hiring managers to align.

Why do businesses do criminal record checks?

One of the main reasons businesses do criminal record checks is to ensure that they hire people with integrity who are unlikely to pose a risk to the company, its employees, or its customers. This is especially true for industries where employees may have access to vulnerable individuals, such as schools, healthcare, or other care facilities. Additionally, certain industries, like finance and law enforcement, require employees to have a clean criminal record to be considered for certain employment options.

Why should I submit my details for criminal record checking?

As a job candidate, you may feel hesitant to submit your details for a criminal record check. However, there are several reasons why this is a good idea. Firstly, it demonstrates to potential employers that you have nothing to hide and are comfortable being transparent about your past. Secondly, it can help you stand out as a candidate who is serious about the position and is willing to go the extra mile to secure it. Finally, instantly proving a clean criminal record can open up more opportunities for you in industries where it’s required.

How can HURU help candidates and hiring managers to align?

HURU is a background screening company that provides identity verification and biometric criminal checks, including the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) criminal check. HURU helps potential candidates by providing a fast and efficient way to verify their criminal record. Access to one’s criminal record status can hold many benefits, including being used for job applications, visa applications and immigration processes. HURU offers applicants a user-friendly platform to opt-in for a criminal record check. In doing so, it gives hiring managers and decision-makers the confidence that they have reliable and accurate information when screening potential candidates’ criminal histories.

How does HURU work?

Getting a criminal record check through HURU is a simple process that can be completed in just a few easy steps.

Step 1: The enquirer registers on HURU

The first step is for the enquirer (for example, the employer) to register on the HURU platform. They will need to provide some basic information, such as their name and contact details, and create a username and password.

Step 2: The candidate captures their fingerprints for the criminal record check

Candidates can easily visit any of our nationwide partner locations, PostNet & Jetline, to register on the HURU database. A trained staff member will be on-site and available to help.  The onboarding process is free and doesn’t require any prior booking. A candidate needs to submit their ID number and fingerprints. These fingerprints are run against the South African Police Service (SAPS) and Home Affairs database to determine criminal and identity status.

Step 3: The enquirer logs into their HURU account to view the results

Once the candidate’s criminal record check has been completed, the enquirer will be notified via email that the results are available. They will need to submit the candidate’s ID number to access the results. Remember that South African law requires employers to obtain written consent from job applicants before conducting a criminal record check.

Is there an alternative to using background screening companies?

Yes, an alternative to background screening companies’ services is applying for a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC). A PCC is a document confirming your criminal record in South Africa. This certificate is issued by the SAPS and can be obtained by visiting your local police station. However, there are several drawbacks to this option. Firstly, the process can be time-consuming and may take several weeks to complete. Additionally, the certificate is only valid for six months, meaning that you may need to apply for a new one when it’s less than ideal, for example, if you’re still in the job-hunting process.

Can you tell me more about HURU?

HURU is a leading background screening company in South Africa, providing secure and reliable criminal record checks to help businesses, recruiters, healthcare facilities, and schools benefit from criminal record information. Our services include comprehensive criminal record checks and continuous monitoring. HURU’s verification system utilises various data points and biometric technology, providing reliable and correct results you can trust. By using advanced technology such as the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS), HURU delivers fast and precise results to both candidates and decision-makers. With HURU’s services, applicants can take control of their background information and ensure that potential employers or other parties receive accurate and up-to-date information about their criminal records. Contact us today or register an account to start a verification.

A Guide to Criminal Record Checks in South Africa

South Africans can now run Criminal and Identity Verifications nationwide, via online portal