How would you do a complete background investigation on applicants to minimize concerns about negligent hiring?

How would you do a complete background investigation on applicants to minimize concerns about negligent hiring?

If I was going to complete a background investigation on applications I would start by making the applicants fill out a form verifying who they are, with their address, name, date of birth, and SSN. I would also require them to bring a copy of a photo ID so that I could see they are the person they claim to be. For completing a background check I would look through to see if the applicant has any criminal history, previous job history, and a reference list. Checking all of these would verify that the person could be fit for the job. If a person has a long list of criminal offenses, or jobs that were only held for a couple of weeks it could highlight that this person may not be right for the job. Providing a reference list would give the opportunity for other people to vouch for the applicant.