A background investigation is essential in various scenarios like hiring new employees, issuing security clearances, licensing, etc. Background investigations give a comprehensive picture of an individual’s history, and such information is used to ensure the security and integrity of institutions and businesses. But how do you initiate such a background investigation? What form is used for such purposes? The form is known as the ‘Standard Form 86 (SF 86)’.
Standard Form 86 – SF 86
The SF 86, also known as the “Questionnaire For National Security Positions,” is produced by the US Office of Personnel Management (OPM). This form is used to request a background investigation for persons seeking to be granted a security clearance, access to classified information, or perform duties significantly affecting security.
The SF 86 is an exhaustive questionnaire, requiring thorough information about personal data such as date and place of birth, education details, employment history, and military history, if applicable. Also, it requires listing all residences, foreign travel and contacts, associations with foreign nationals, financial history, arrest records and other legal issues, as well as a detailed record of psychological and emotional health.
Other Forms of Background Checks
While SF 86 is widely used in the US, other forms exist for different types of back-background investigations. These forms typically vary by country and the nature of the background check. For instance, in Australia, permission forms are typically used to perform background checks for employment and volunteer positions. Employers often create their permission forms where the applicant gives consent to carry out the check.
For a police check, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) provides a National Police Check (NPC) Application Form. This form is often used for people who are seeking employment, volunteering or licensing purposes that require full disclosure of any criminal history.
Criminal digital checks Australia, is an online method of requesting an Australian criminal history check. Various accredited bodies provide this online service which requires necessary documents to verify the identity of the individual and payment for the police check.
Like in many other countries, employers and other bodies in Australia must gain written consent from individuals before conducting a background check. Therefore, consent forms are essential when requesting a background investigation.
Conclusion
Thus, formalities and regulations regarding background checks are a crucial aspect of maintaining security and integrity within businesses and institutions. Understanding the different forms used for these checks, especially when functioning in various jurisdictions, is key for anyone in human resources or security-related roles.
In conclusion, the SF 86 is the primary form used to request a background investigation in the US, specifically for security-related roles. But, in different situations and different regions like Australia, various other forms and methods are used, including criminal digital checks Australia. Always check with your local regulations and protocols to ensure the correct and lawful conduct of background checks.