What does the Employee Polygraph Protection Act regulate?

The Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA) specifically addresses the use of polygraph tests in the context of applicant screening. This law restricts employers from using polygraphs, and similar testing methods, for pre-employment screening or as a condition of employment, except in certain circumstances. Under this act, employers are prohibited from requiring or even suggesting that applicants (or employees) take a polygraph test, as it can lead to privacy invasion and unjust employment practices.

The regulation is aimed at protecting employees and job applicants from potential discrimination that could arise from the subjective nature of polygraph results, which are not always deemed reliable. While there are exceptions in specific industries, like security and pharmaceuticals, the EPPA overall establishes a protective framework centered around the use of polygraphs in the hiring process. This regulation reflects a broader commitment to fair employment practices and the protection of individual rights in the workplace.