Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Polygraph record?

Can an employer use a polygraph to test an employee suspected of causing an economic loss?

How many questions may be asked?

Will I know what questions are on the test?

Can I be forced to take a polygraph exam?

How long does a polygraph exam take?

Should I stop taking my medication before the test?

What is a Polygraph?

A polygraph is a scientific instrument used to detect deception.

Who is a Polygraph Examiner?

A person who has graduated from an American Polygraph Association approved basic polygraph examiner course of instruction. IC25-30-2 requires polygraph examiners who are not police officers or federal law enforcement officers to hold a "Certification of Polygraph Examiner."

How does a Polygraph work?

The polygraph records physiological responses of an individual attached to a polygraph instrument.

What does the Polygraph record?

A polygraph records, breathing, heart rate, blood pressure and galvanic skin resistance.

Does a polygraph detect lies?

No, a polygraph records physiological responses to a series of questions presented to an individual by a qualified polygraph examiner using a validated testing format. The examiner is then able to decipher the chart polygrams and render a diagnostic opinion as to the veracity of the subject being tested.

Can an employer use a polygraph to test an employee suspected of causing an economic loss?

Yes, if the employer has reasonable suspicion. The employer must be able to articulate the reasonable suspicion, and reduce it to writing, access alone does not constitute reasonable suspicion. Additional information can be found in the Federal Register/Vol. 53, No. 204 / Friday, October 21, 1988 Rules and Regulations pages 41497 through 41510 (Employee Polygraph Protection Act)

How accurate is a polygraph

The American Polygraph Association says the polygraph is 85% to 95% Accurate, there are studies on record that suggest polygraph is even more accurate.

How many questions may be asked?

Question numbers are determined by the format being utilized by the examiner.

Will I know what questions are on the test?

Yes, all questions are reviewed with the examinee prior to any polygraph testing.

Can I be forced to take a polygraph exam?

No, polygraph exams are always voluntary.

How long does a polygraph exam take?

A polygraph test is a three phase test; the pre test, chart collection phase, and the post test. Examinations require a minimum of ninety minutes, but often take longer.

Should I stop taking my medication before the test?

No.