A polygraph is a diagnostic instrument used by a formally trained polygraph examiner for the purpose of collecting, measuring and recording physiological data from three major systems in the body. The Cardiovascular system (heart rate, blood pressure, blood volume), the Respiratory System (respiratory activity patterns and changes) and the Electrodermal System (galvanic skin response)

The most important considerations are training and experience. Some of the things to consider are:

Is this business engaged solely in providing a polygraph service?

Where did the examiner receive their training? Is this school accredited by the American Polygraph Association? Are they certified? What advanced training do they have?

Do they use state of the art computerized equipment?

What education degrees do they have?

The polygraph examination consists of three components. The pre-test, the test and the post test.

During the pre-test the examiner will gather all relevant information available regarding the issue(s) to be tested. He will explain your rights and ask you to sign a consent form. He will determine your ability to be polygraphed by completing a questionnaire. This will also make the examiner aware of any health or other issues that might affect the conduct of the examination. He will talk about the reason for the examination and ask about your side of the story. This will be followed by an explanation of how the polygraph works. At this point all of the questions that will be asked are reviewed with you and may be modified if you do not understand them. Once you indicate that you are satisfied with the questions we move to the test portion of the examination.

A practice exam will be conducted to determine that you are capable of responding physiologically when you tell a lie. It will ensure the examiner that the instrument is adjusted properly. It will let you see what it feels like to have the sensors connected.

Once this is completed the actual polygraph will be conducted. The test questions will be formulated and reviewed with you word for word. All questions will be answered with a yes or a no. No questions will be asked without being reviewed with you, there will be no surprise or trick questions asked. Only when both you and the examiner are satisfied with the questions will the examination proceed. The examination is conducted by asking the questions while you are attached to the polygraph. The questions will be asked a number of times and the data will be collected and recorded. When he has collected sufficient data he will remove the components from your body

During the post test phase the examiner will carefully analyse the charts produced and render an opinion based solely on the polygraph. He will discuss the results with you.

During the examination the examiner will ask you a number of questions to ensure your suitability to take the polygraph. You should arrive for your examination well rested and having eaten. Alcohol and illegal drugs should not be used for at least 24 hours before your examination.

Dress comfortably, but sweaters or other bulky clothing should be avoided because they could interfere with the placement of the components.

Continue to take any medications that have been prescribed for you.

If you are pregnant you can not be tested.

It is normal for people to feel nervous about taking the polygraph. This is usually a fear of the unknown. During the pretest the examiner will work with you to reduce the nervousness and make you feel more at ease.

Dr. David Raskin, a leading scientist in the field of polygraphy has stated that: “High quality scientific research from the laboratory and the field converge on the conclusion that a properly conducted CQT (Comparison Question Test) is a highly accurate discriminator of truth tellers and deceivers. The research results converge on an accuracy estimate that exceeds 90 percent”

It is important to add that the examiner must be properly trained, use an approved technique and accurately interpret the charts produced.

The examiner will discuss the result of the test immediately after the charts have been analysed and evaluated. If the data shows reactions to one or more of the questions asked you will be given the opportunity to explain these reactions.

Have all of your questions been answered? If you still have questions please contact us for clarification.

Most tests will take between 2 and 2 ½ hours.