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How to create a safe and secure hiring process for construction workers

Calendar Icon 13 October, 2025

In the construction industry, safety, reliability and compliance are crucial - not only in the workplace, but also in the recruitment process itself. Hiring employees without having full information about their background can lead to serious consequences: from health and safety risks to legal problems, financial risks (such as theft) and reputational damage. With increasing reports of undeclared work, false IDs and incorrect certificates, it is becoming increasingly important for companies to be proactive with background checks.

From ID verification and right-to-work checks to drug testing and international referencing, DISA helps companies in the construction industry create secure hiring processes. In this post, we'll look at how you can work preventively using modern tools and controls - and why it's an investment in both safety and profitability.

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Challenges facing the construction industry - safety risks start at the point of hire

Swedish construction sites are highly regulated environments - and for good reason. But despite clear regulations, the risks are high when it comes to who is on site. Some of the most common problems include:

  • False identities or unauthorised persons on site
  • Foreign workers without valid work and residence permits
  • False or falsified certificates of professional competence
  • Employees with drug or alcohol problems
  • Hidden criminal backgrounds that may affect safety

These factors not only pose a security risk, but can also lead to significant legal and financial consequences. This is where a structured background check in the construction industry becomes a necessary tool - rather than an option.

Read more: 

Right to work in Sweden? How to check your employees' work permits

 

 

Undeclared work: a threat to both safety and the industry's reputation

Undeclared work remains a widespread problem in the construction sector. According to the Swedish Tax Agency, it not only involves tax offences, but also increases the risk of accidents, insurance problems and legal penalties. By using employees’ registers and ensuring that all employees have approved ID06 cards, you can effectively counteract illegal labour.

DISA offers support in identifying high-risk employment, for example through a Personal identification check (PID) as well as by performing an international background check with matching against available information in international databases.

 

 

ID06 and employee ledgers - why IDs alone are not enough

The ID06 system and labour registers are important tools for monitoring who works on construction sites. But an ID card rarely tells the whole story. A person may well have a valid ID06 card but still:

  • Have used another person's identity
  • lack the right training or certification
  • Be involved in criminal activities

A security check and ID verification should therefore be part of every recruitment process. DISA can offer these as stand-alone services or as part of a total solution.

 

 

A safe work environment starts with the right people

The Swedish Work Environment Authority's requirements for work environment plans and safety rounds aim to reduce accidents, stress and uncertainty in the workplace. But these efforts lose their impact if the right people are not hired from the start. A person with substance abuse problems or a history of violence can pose a direct danger to colleagues - especially in high-risk environments.

DISA offers pre-employment background checks that identify previous offences. This gives you as an employer a concrete basis for decision-making.

 

 

DISA's comprehensive solution for safe recruitment in the construction industry

DISA supports companies in the construction sector with secure and smooth recruitment processes - from first contact to ongoing checks during employment. Through background checks that combine Personal identification checks, international right-to-work checks, validation of qualifications and criminal record checks, we help you prevent risks associated with undeclared work, false declarations and lack of safety on construction sites. Our solutions are customized to the needs of your business and always comply with GDPR legislation and good practice.

Do you want to know how you can protect your organization by making better, more thorough and faster hiring decisions? Contact DISA and we will help you find the right way forward.