The world to criminal background checks can get confusing. While there are criminal background checks online, there is one type that still needs to be requested directly from the RCMP, this type of criminal record check is called a Vulnerable Sector Check.

Vulnerable sectors include children, the disabled and elderly. When an employee will be in a position of trust as it relates to a vulnerable sector, organizations and employers will require this type of background check, but each employer determines when it is required based on their internal criteria:

  • Some will require it on specific roles all the time.
  • Some will only require it when the employee is working alone with the vulnerable person.
  • Some don’t deem it necessary in correlation to services provided to the vulnerable person and may deem a standard CRJMC (criminal record check) is sufficient.

If you plan to work in an industry that serves vulnerable sectors, always ask the perspective employer or organization what type of criminal record check they require, specifically.

What is a vulnerable sector check and how is it different from a standard criminal background check?

Answering the question “what is a Vulnerable Sector Check” means highlighting that there are two types depending on the type of organization you are looking to join.

All vulnerable sector checks include: conviction information, active (non-expired) absolute or conditional discharges and suspended (pardoned) information. Individuals looking for employment with provincial governments will also see youth information included in their vulnerable sector check.

Currently a Vulnerable Sector Check can only be obtained directly from the RCMP. The process involves visiting your local police station, providing digital fingerprints, paying the fee and then the police department will submit the request to the RCMP. In turn, the RCMP will mail the Vulnerable Sector Check results usually within a couple of weeks of making the request.

This is why if you are looking for a job or volunteer opportunity it is critical that you understand this process. Especially during a season where companies have to fill a lot of positions fast, you don’t want to have a two week delay in the hiring process while you wait for your Vulnerable Sector Check to come in the mail.

If you are lucky to learn that in fact for the role you are looking for does not require a vulnerable sector check, well life just got easier. Standard criminal background checks can be obtained online at www.tritoncanada.ca and the results are available in under 15 minutes.

Knowing ‘what is a vulnerable sector check’ is and the process to get one is step one. Now that you are armed with this information you are better positioned to evaluate what type of background check you are likely to need depending on the position you are looking to land.

For more information about criminal record checks please visit www.tritoncanada.ca.