Hirers must suspect every maid — Security expert

A security expert and secretary, Lagos State chapter of the American Society of Industrial Security, Prof. Femi Adegbulu, tells GBENGA ADENIJI the pitfalls to avoid when hiring domestic workers

What are the things to note when hiring a maid or domestic workers?

Pre-engagement screening by way of background checks is of crucial importance when hiring a maid. In this case, the hirer must go and crosscheck the addresses given by the prospective maid. The hirer must also take into consideration where the maid lives, where she has worked before and the opinions of her previous boss about her. There is also a need to speak with her former neighbours, friends and parents. Besides, whoever is standing as a guarantor must be made to sign an undertaking, in case of any eventuality. On no account should any maid be hired without thorough investigation about her. Of necessity also is a credible guarantor.

What are the other things to consider before engaging a domestic worker?

It is important that one should not accept a maid on a mere word of mouth recommendation without the points above. What to check for? They include family background, parentage, family traits or any history of social malady in the family. Are they covetous or content? What are her siblings doing? Are they on the fast lane? Has any of them been imprisoned before for any offence?

What are the security precautions to take in entrusting kids and property to house helps?

A great caution must be exercised in entrusting kids and valuables in the hands of a maid on whom number one above has not been exercised. Even after number one above has been administered, suspicion should still be exercised because the otherwise ‘clean’ individual might develop avarice and other vices in her place of engagement.

Are there ways to verify whether a domestic worker is genuine or not before hiring?  

There is no art yet developed by man by which we can read the mind construction through facial expressions. Caution is the watchword.

What do you think can make a domestic worker to exhibit untoward acts towards her employer or kids in her care?  

It can happen if the bosses are hostile or if they consistently demean the maid in the presence of the kids and in the public.

What are the handy devices that can be used to monitor activities of domestic workers in and around the house when their employers are out of sight?

There are many devices such as different sensors that can help guard one’s assets even when one is out of the country. However, in selecting the appropriate alarm system to be used by the owner, a number of questions need to be answered. One of the questions is to understand what is called ‘design basis threat.’ What are the threats/risks against which the system must protect? In doing this, prospective hirers may need to see experts on security subject matter.

Where is the most appropriate place to hire a domestic worker?

It is through a reputable company. Sometimes, relatives can help since they know themselves at the village level. I am not saying that these methods are a 100 per cent safe, but the risk of the workers running with valuables will be minimised.

What is your advice to prospective hirers of domestic workers?

If they must hire, they should systematically follow the precautions stated above.