FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How effective is Polygraphing?
Statistics state that a polygraph test can be up to 98% accurate. There are however several different factors that influence the outcome of the test. For example, what examination technique was used by the examiner and were the correct questions asked?
Did the examiner do a thorough background interview/investigation with Client?
Did the examinee fully understand and comprehend the questions asked?
Did the examiner interpret the charts recorded correctly?
What is the cost of a Polygraph test?
The price per tests depends on the actual test required (single issue/pre-employment/periodic/infidelity/etc.), the number of tests required (discounts apply for large bookings and contracts).
Pre-employment/periodic tests are approximately R550.00 per test, single issue tests are approximately R650.00 per test, infidelity/sex crimes R1000.00 per test and up depending on the complexity of the case.
Is Polygraphing effective?
Yes. A polygraph test will assist in establishing whether the person being tested has answered questions truthfully. This enables the employer to ascertain the correct action/s to be taken against the examinee, if any.
Can I force my staff to undertake a polygraph test?
Absolutely not.
The test must be taken voluntarily and a consent form is signed by both the polygrapher and the examinee. This is all recorded on camera, verbally as well as in writing.
What if there is a significant trust placed in certain employees, and there is a risk of collusion and/or theft. (In some instances the vulnerability is actually a reputational one, for example, Security Guards guarding ATM’s or Cash in Transit Staff.)
It is advisable that a clause, reserving the employers right to polygraph employees is included in the employment contracts of all employees in these positions. This must be done in accordance with South African Labour Law.
Can Polygraphing be used in a court of Law?
In South Africa there is no written law stating that polygraph evidence cannot be used in a court of law. This will be considered by the presiding officer/magistrate/judge/commissioner.
It must, however, be stated that a polygraph test is generally used as supporting evidence in hearings, not as sole evidence. i.e. it is part of a robust set of evidence against a perpetrator.
