At the National Association of Drainage Contractors (NADC), we take the safety and trust of our members’ customers seriously. In a recent survey, we asked our members about their DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check status and their work environments. The results are insightful and reinforce our ongoing commitment to high standards in the drainage industry.

Key Survey Results:
- 71.4% of members have all of their contractors DBS checked.
- 16.3% of members report that some of their contractors are DBS checked.
- 12.2% of members indicate that none of their contractors are DBS checked.
- In terms of work environments, 76% of members work in a mix of both indoor and outdoor settings, while 20% work primarily outdoors, and just 4% primarily indoors.
- When asked whether being DBS checked enhances customer trust, particularly when working inside customers’ homes, 68% of respondents agreed that it definitely enhances trust.

Encouraging DBS Checks for All Members
At NADC, we believe that DBS checks are an important part of maintaining a high level of professionalism and trust, especially for those working inside domestic properties or environments where vulnerable people, such as children, may be present.
While it is reassuring to see that the majority of NADC members (71.4%) have all of their contractors DBS checked, we continue to advocate for the importance of safeguarding through these checks.
Why is this Important?
Being DBS checked not only ensures that your contractors are vetted for any past criminal activity, but it also provides an additional layer of trust with your customers. According to our survey, 68% of members believe that being DBS checked enhances customer trust, especially when working inside their homes. For those in the industry, this can be a key differentiator in securing customer confidence and building long-term relationships.

Conclusion
As a professional body, NADC is proud to see that many of our members are taking steps to prioritize safety and security through DBS checks. We encourage all members, especially those working inside domestic properties, to consider the benefits of DBS checks and how they can positively impact customer trust and safety.
If you haven’t yet arranged for your operatives to be DBS checked, now is a great time to consider doing so. It not only boosts the professional reputation of your business but also helps ensure the safety and peace of mind of the families and vulnerable people you work with.