Maidenhead polygraph used for employment
Our Maidenhead polygraph office were recently asked if an employee can request a polygraph test. Grace applied for a job that wanted her to take a polygraph test are part of the employment process. Here is Grace’s story and our examiner’s response.
A new job
Grace recently changed careers when she lost her job due to the pandemic. Luckily, Grace decided to take an open university degree part time in accountancy. She managed to complete her degree just two months after losing her job. The new degree meant she could now job search in accountancy rather than remaining in her HR career. Grace was excited for what the future held for her and her new skills.
The employment process
Grace applied for several jobs but didn’t have any success for a few weeks. Finally, she got a job interview with a local accountancy firm. The role was only maternity cover but it was for a junior role and she felt she suited the role perfectly. Excitedly, Grace bought a new suit and prepped for her zoom interview the following week. Grace was interviewed by two of the senior directors of the company.
The interview
Excited that the interview was going seemingly well, Grace decided to ask a few questions at the end of her interview. She asked John, one of the interviewers what the next step was if she was successful. John informed Grace that with her permission, the company would wish her to take a polygraph test. Surprised by his response, Grace asked why that would be necessary. He replied to Grace saying that the company deal with large accounts and important company records, taking a polygraph test would ensure that the firm could trust her and help keep their record of professionalism and trust with key clients.
Grace came away from the interview and decided to ask our Maidenhead examiners if a company could ask her to take a polygraph test, and what the process would be.
Our examiner’s response
Polygraph tests are becoming increasingly popular in the accounting industry along with legal and recruitment. Polygraph testing is gaining fast traction in the UK and being used for both private and business sectors. It has helped in the investigations of crimes and now employees wish to use it to maintain working relationships and help protect their reputation within the industry and their clients.
What happens in the test
Lie detector equipment detects physiological responses, such reactions being analysed by highly skilled and qualified examiners. Sensors attached to the subject will monitor changes in the body when questions are asked. These include respiratory changes, increased heart rate and perspiration. The polygraph charts are generated by attaching sensors to the examinee. Sensors are put around the upper chest and stomach (on the outside of clothing) to record breathing and movement. Sensors are on the subjects fingertips to measure changes in skin temperature. Finally, a blood pressure cuff just like the doctor uses is put on the subject. This monitors changes in blood pressure, blood volume and pulse rate.
To conclude
Although an employee cannot force you to take a polygraph test or indeed not hire you for refusing to take one, it is something worth considering. Showing willing to a polygraph test proves both your reputation and helps squish any concerns your future employer might have. You are well within your right to do whatever you feel is the best option for you, and what you are most comfortable with. The test will focus on questions relating to work and situations that may arise within your profession, but will not contain anything personal. We hope this helps your question, you can find more information on legal rights here.
If you wish to book a lie detector test as an employee or an employer then book your test online today. Alternatively, you can call our free helpline on 0800 369 8277.
