Under what conditions is it appropriate to recommend an employer require an employee to take a polygraph test?

Recommending that an employer require an employee to take a polygraph test is most appropriate in situations where there is a reasonable suspicion of involvement in a specific criminal act that has occurred within the workplace, such as embezzlement. In this context, if there is credible evidence or reason to believe that an employee, such as a financial controller, has engaged in deceitful behavior related to financial misconduct, the use of a polygraph test may serve as an investigative tool to ascertain the truth.

Polygraphs can sometimes lend themselves to situations where there is a need to ascertain the honesty of an employee regarding theft or fraud. However, employers must be cautious and ensure that they comply with legal regulations surrounding polygraph testing, as the Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA) places strict limitations on the circumstances under which such tests can be administered, emphasizing that they should only be considered for specific roles and circumstances.

Situations like suspected drug influence or accusations of violent behavior typically do not justify a polygraph test under the same legal framework and ethical considerations. These types of issues are often handled through different HR policies and procedures focused on workplace safety and drug-free environments.