ASTM International Committee E52 on Forensic Psychophysiology

ASTM International Committee E52 on Forensic Psychophysiology: An Introduction

ASTM Committee E52 on Forensic Psychophysiology was formed in 1996 as part of ASTM International's comprehensive standards development framework. The committee develops consensus-based standards for forensic psychophysiology (polygraph) instruments, techniques, quality assurance, and testing methodologies that are used globally. Unlike traditional polygraph associations focused on professional networking and training, E52 serves as the premier standards-setting body for the forensic psychophysiology field, creating technically rigorous documents that support quality control, legal admissibility, and professional practice worldwide.

History & Formation

According to George Baranowski, E52 member and owner of Mindsight Consultants, the committee held its organizational meeting in 1997 and was officially recognized by ASTM the following year. A U.S. district court decision in which a polygraph test was not allowed led to the formation of the committee. The court stated that there were no controlling standards to ensure proper protocol by which a defender's examination could be measured, despite the fact that individual polygraph organizations did maintain their own standards. In the wake of the court decision, a number of polygraphic examiners, including Richard Widup, who was with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and John Schwartz, with the U.S. Department of Justice, determined that ASTM would be an ideal venue for the development of polygraphy standards. Widup and Schwartz became the first chairman and vice chairman, respectively, of E52.

Mission & Professional Standards

Committee E52's primary mission is to develop technically sound, consensus-based standards that govern all aspects of forensic psychophysiology practice. The committee's work ensures that polygraph examinations meet rigorous scientific and procedural criteria, supporting both quality control and legal admissibility. These standards align with our Code of Ethics by establishing clear professional guidelines, and complement our Standards of Practice through detailed technical specifications. Baranowski says that, while different polygraphy organizations may continue to maintain their own standards, ASTM standards are now often cited by the organizations and are well known in the courts.

Committee Structure & Standards Portfolio

The Committee, with a current membership of 22 members, has jurisdiction of 7 standards, published in July in the Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Volume 14.02. E52 has seven technical subcommittees that maintain jurisdiction over these standards. The subcommittees include: E52.01 on Research; E52.02 on Instrumentation, which focuses on standards for manufacturers of polygraph instruments; E52.03 on Quality Control; E52.04 on Examiner Education and Training; E52.05 on Psychophysiological Detection of Deception; and E52.07 on Ethics in Administration of PDD Tests.

Meeting Structure & Operations

E52 meets twice a year with about 25 members attending two days of technical meetings. The committee operates under ASTM International's consensus-based standards development process, ensuring that all stakeholders have input in the creation and revision of standards. Unlike traditional polygraph association seminars focused on continuing education, E52 meetings concentrate on technical standards development, balloting procedures, and interlaboratory studies to validate proposed standards.

Current Leadership & Technical Excellence

Staff Manager: Joe Koury; Chair: Donald J Krapohl; Secretary: Paula E Baranowski provide organizational leadership for the committee. Currently chaired by Chris Fausett, Lafayette Instrument Co., E52 continues to develop standards, including a proposed new standard for interpreters. The committee benefits from participation by leading polygraph equipment manufacturers, federal agencies, academic researchers, and practicing examiners who bring diverse expertise to the standards development process.

Role in the Broader Profession

E52 occupies a unique position in the forensic psychophysiology profession as the primary international standards-setting body. According to Baranowski, developing standards through the ASTM process has been beneficial to the polygraphy profession. "This is something we need," says Baranowski. "Creating Committee E52 is one of the most valuable things that has occurred in regard to polygraph examinations. The committee's work supports the broader profession by providing the technical foundation that enables courts, government agencies, and private examiners to conduct reliable polygraph examinations. For comprehensive information about other professional organizations in the field, visit our Polygraph Associations Directory.