Can a PPO require a guard to take a polygraph exam after a theft?

A private patrol operator (PPO) can request a polygraph exam after a theft incident, but it is not mandatory for the guard to take the exam. This reflects the principles of voluntary participation and the legal rights of employees. In many jurisdictions, including California, polygraph tests cannot be required as a condition of employment or as a punitive measure, which underscores the importance of consent in such situations. While a PPO may find it useful to gather information around a theft incident, requiring a polygraph would not be permissible due to the lack of regulatory support for making it obligatory.

The options that suggest mandating the test or tying it to the amount of theft do not align with the legal standards governing private security practices. It is crucial for PPOs to respect the rights of their guards while also conducting effective investigative practices. Therefore, while they can request a polygraph exam, participation remains under the guard's discretion, maintaining the integrity of employee rights.