Federal Employee Polygraph Protection Act

The Employee Polygraph Protection Act prohibits employers from using lie detector tests, either before or during employment, with limited exceptions.

Employers generally may not require or request any employee or job applicant to take a lie detector test or discharge, discipline, or discriminate against an employee or job applicant for refusing to take a test or for exercising other rights under the Act.

Polygraph tests may be used in three situations:

1. For job applicants at security-service firms (organizations that provide armored cars, security alarms, or security guards);
2. For job applicants to pharmaceutical firms; or
3. When an employer reasonably suspects that an employee caused tangible economic loss.

If administered, polygraph tests and those who administer them must adhere to strict regulatory guidelines. Even if a polygraph test is allowed and administered correctly, employers may not base an employment decision solely on the results of the polygraph test.