Lie Detector Tests at Work: Banned in Ontario

Ontario's Employment Standards Act gives employees and job applicants the right not to take, be asked to take, or be required to take a lie detector test.

What is protected

• Employees have the right not to take, or be asked to take, a lie detector test.
• Applicants have the same right during hiring.
• Employers must not use results of such tests, or disclose that a test was taken.

Limited exceptions

There are narrow exceptions, for example for some police matters. Ordinary workplaces aren't covered by them.

If you are asked

1. Politely refuse, and note the date and who asked.
2. Raise it in writing.
3. You can file a complaint with the Ministry of Labour, and you are protected from reprisal.

Workplace investigations

Employers can still investigate misconduct fairly, for example by interviewing people and reviewing records, but not with a lie detector.

Sources

• Employment Standards Act, 2000
• Ontario: your guide to the Employment Standards Act

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General Ontario legal information, not legal advice for your matter, and reading it does not create a retainer. Sources checked 15 October 2026: check the current law, forms and dates before you act.

Photos from Pexels: A handshake over signed documents · A job interview in an office.

This article is general information for people in Ontario, not legal advice. Rules, forms and deadlines change, and every situation is different. Check the current rule or speak to a licensed legal professional before you act.