Does a polygraph detect lies?

No. It records physical responses such as breathing, heart activity and skin moisture while questions are answered. A trained examiner interprets those responses and gives a professional opinion. That opinion is one piece of evidence, not a verdict.

Will the person being tested know the questions beforehand?

Yes. The questions are agreed during the consultation and read through with the examinee before the test begins. Nobody is asked a question they have not already seen.

Is polygraph testing voluntary?

Yes. Each person is told what the test involves and gives written consent before the examination. Even where testing is a condition in a signed employment contract, the employer should follow a fair and consistent process.

Can a polygraph result be used at a disciplinary hearing, the CCMA or the Labour Court?

It can be put forward as one piece of evidence at a disciplinary hearing, at the CCMA or bargaining council, or in the Labour Court. It should not be the only basis for a decision. The examiner should be available to explain how the examination was run and what the findings mean. How much weight it carries is for the chairperson, commissioner or judge to decide.

Can we dismiss someone because of a polygraph result?

Not on that result alone. A fair process, consistent treatment of employees and other supporting evidence all matter. Speak to us before you act on a result.

Polygraph Services

Professional polygraph and integrity screening services that help employers reduce risk and protect their businesses.

Pre-Employment Polygraph Testing

Verify the honesty and integrity of prospective employees before making a hiring decision. Pre-employment polygraph testing can help identify undisclosed criminal activity, falsified qualifications, previous misconduct or other integrity concerns, allowing employers to recruit with greater confidence.

Periodic Polygraph Testing

Periodic polygraph examinations are ideal for employees working in positions of trust or responsibility. Regular testing promotes accountability, discourages dishonest behaviour and helps organisations maintain high ethical standards within the workplace.

Specific Issue / Investigation Polygraph Testing

Used during workplace investigations involving theft, fraud, misconduct or policy violations, these examinations help verify information, eliminate suspicion and support employers during disciplinary or investigative processes.

Infidelity Polygraph Testing

Infidelity polygraph examinations assist individuals and couples seeking clarity in relationship disputes. The examination provides an independent assessment to help participants make informed decisions and encourage honest communication, subject to voluntary consent.

Research paper: Polygraph Evidence in South African Labour Law

Admissibility, value and misconceptions.

How polygraph testing works

Every examination follows the same structured steps, from first conversation to written report.

01
Consultation and scoping
We discuss what happened, who may be involved and what you need to know, and decide whether polygraph testing is appropriate. If it is not the right tool, we will say so.
02
Consent
Each person is told what the test involves and agrees to take part voluntarily and in writing. Nobody can be forced to be tested.
03
Pre-test interview
The examiner explains the procedure and reviews each question with the examinee before the test starts, so nothing in the examination is a surprise.
04
The examination
While the examinee answers the agreed questions, the polygraph records physiological responses. The examination is conducted by a qualified examiner.
05
Analysis and report
The examiner analyses the charts and issues a written report with the findings. Results are kept confidential and shared only with the person who instructed us.
06
Follow-up
We advise on how the results fit into your investigation or disciplinary process, and the examiner can give evidence where that is needed.

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Answers before you ask.

Common questions from HR managers, directors and business owners.

Polygraph Services

Pre-Employment Polygraph Testing

Periodic Polygraph Testing

Specific Issue / Investigation Polygraph Testing

Infidelity Polygraph Testing

How polygraph testing works

Consultation and scoping

Consent

Pre-test interview

The examination

Analysis and report

Follow-up