Specific Incident Polygraph Testing

(Approximately 60 minutes)

Test Methodology – We utilized the Integrated Zone of Comparison question construct, (IZCT) which is proven by contemporary polygraph research to be the most reliable construct for Single Issue tests.  Biofeedback Polygraph charts are numerically scored using the Empirical Scoring System (ESS).  Voice Polygraph charts are automatically scored by AVSAPRO neural network processing.

Similar to criminal cases whereby law enforcement makes use of polygraph testing to determine the truth, these tests can be play a very useful role in investigating a wide variety of specific incidences that occur in the business sector – Theft, bribery, damage, fraud, hijacking, missing money, sabotage, abuse, harassment, etc. These tests will add great value to not only identify the guilty and dishonest person, but also eliminate the honest and innocent.

As an investigative tool it is capable in providing information to the company, persons or investigators regarding the incident that in certain cases is simply not possible through any other means.

By law, you cannot dismiss any person on the basis of a polygraph only. Noting this, polygraph testing has been upheld in the CCMA/CMAC court hearings as corroborating evidence with multiple precedents set although unfortunately it is not grounds for dismissal as stand-alone evidence as of yet.

Approach When Investigating An Incident

It is of vital importance, particularly in crime situations, that the first information received from a subject is given in their own terminology and in their own specific use of vernacular. The best scenario is to have the subject write down his or her own account of events in question. A written statement cannot be changed, forgotten or misinterpreted. The investigator or management representative should reveal no information about what they know about the issue in question.

As a guideline, approach an investigation of a specific incident as follows –

1. Do not make any assumptions.
2. Do not debate with or confront any employees regarding the issue.
3. Gather factual information about incident.
4. Create suspect list by using the criteria below (Any person that meets 20% of this criteria should be added to suspect list).
   1. Employed less than six months.
   2. Age 18-30
   3. Was at work at the time of Incident.
   4. Works in area of incident occurrence.
   5. Had access to area.
   6. Had prior problems at his previous company.
   7. Earns comparatively low salary.
   8. Has suspicions and is vociferous in naming others as suspects.
   9. Has shown recent change in demeanour or attitude.
   10. Is disgruntled, bad tempered or hostile.
   11. Has record of absenteeism following incident.
   12. Has stability problems.
   13. Is the person who discovered the incident.
   14. Has financial or other significant problems.
   15. There is some evidence suggesting the person was involved.
5. Make suspect write a statement in his own terminology. The only instruction being – “ Please write down everything, from the time you woke up until the time you went to bed on the specific date of the incident” .
6. Preferably request a SCAN (Statement Content Analysis) via a professional Investigator.
7. Arrange Polygraph Testing.
8. Analyse results.
9. Proceed with appropriate action or investigation.