Can Employers Use a Polygraph As Part of Their Screening Process?

In the United States, employers generally cannot use polygraph tests (lie detector tests) as part of their regular employee screening process. The Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA) of 1988 prohibits most private employers from using a polygraph examiner in Knoxville, TN, for pre-employment screening or during the course of employment. There are, however, a few exceptions:

• Government Jobs - Federal, state, and local government agencies (e.g., law enforcement, national security) are exempt from EPPA and may use polygraphs in certain situations.
• Security Firms & Pharmaceutical Companies - Businesses involved in security services (e.g., armored car companies) or those that deal with controlled substances (like pharmaceuticals) may use polygraph tests for some employees.
• Ongoing Investigations - In specific cases, if an employer is investigating a theft or other serious workplace incident and reasonably suspects that an employee was involved, they may use a polygraph. However, certain conditions must be met, and the employee must consent.

In most situations, private employers cannot condition job offers on passing a polygraph examination in Knoxville, TN. Furthermore, employees who refuse to take a polygraph test cannot be disciplined or terminated based on that refusal.

The Objectives of Pre-Employment Polygraphs

When the conditions allow for a polygraph examination in Knoxville, TN, there are typically three key objectives behind carrying out the test as part of the pre-employment process.

First and foremost, a polygraph examination in Knoxville, TN, can help to prompt full disclosure from the subject during a background check. For government roles, employers need disclosures regarding criminal activity, including acts of violence, drug-related offenses, drug and alcohol abuse, sexual crimes, and any prior issues during military service or other forms of employment. While criminal histories will usually be pulled, there are occasions where certain things are not disclosed. However, if the candidate is aware that they will be subjected to a polygraph examination in Knoxville, TN, they will be more likely to disclose this information.

The second objective when using a polygraph examination in Knoxville, TN, as part of the pre-employent process is to discourage unsuitable candidates from applying in the first place! When individuals have indiscretions in their past that might come up during a polygraph exam, they are likely to avoid applying for roles that will require a pre-employment polygraph.

Finally, a polygraph examination in Knoxville, TN, aims to detect when an applicant is withholding important information during the recruitment process. Trust is essential in the type of roles where polygraphs are allowed for pre-employment screening, so it is important that applicants are completely honest both on their application and during the interview process. A qualified polygraph examiner will be able to test candidates and determine if they are trying to hide information.

Why Choose Kendall Investigations For Your Pre-Employment Polygraph?

When it comes to pre-employment screening polygraph examinations in Knoxville, TN, Kendall Investigations stands out as a trusted and professional provider. With years of experience in polygraph testing, our team offers a level of expertise and precision that ensures accurate, reliable results. Choosing Kendall Investigations for your polygraph needs gives you the peace of mind that your screening process is thorough, legal, and ethically conducted.

We understand that hiring trustworthy employees is critical for your business, especially in industries where security and integrity are paramount. At Kendall Investigations, we specialize in polygraph exams tailored to meet the specific needs of companies in industries like law enforcement, security services, and government sectors where polygraph testing is permitted. Our lead examiner, Kendall Shull, was formerly head of the FBI polygraph department and is fully trained and licensed, adhering to state and federal regulations, ensuring that our process complies with the Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA) and other relevant laws.

We use state-of-the-art polygraph equipment to deliver highly accurate and detailed results. More importantly, our approach is professional and respectful, creating a non-threatening environment for examinees, which helps produce more reliable outcomes. By partnering with Kendall Investigations, you’ll benefit from personalized service, rapid turnaround times, and clear, comprehensive reports that help you make informed hiring decisions—Trust Kendall Investigations to provide the quality and expertise you need in pre-employment polygraph screening.