Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as a robust method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By capturing biomarkers within the strands, hair records an extended history of substance use. If gathered near the scalp, it offers up to a 3-month detection timeframe for alcohol and other substances. The collection process for hair is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and simple to transport.
Collecting a 1.5-inch section of around 200 hair strands (similar to a #2 pencil in thickness) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal quantity for both screening and verification. For extensive tests like EtG, add-ons, or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the specimen is recommended. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent volume of body hair can be acquired. When we mention head hair, it exclusively pertains to scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses all other hair varieties (facial, underarm, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory analysis of a drug test result includes four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, a sample is introduced into a laboratory's system, involving verification of the sample’s proper sealing and shipping, assigning a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and performing any additional data entry required beyond what an electronic chain of custody system provides.
Screening offers a preliminary assessment for substance abuse. Although Screening is economical, to be legally valid, a positive screen must undergo confirmation. Samples that show potential positivity in Screening need additional confirmation.
In cases of preliminary positivity in Screening, further hair is taken from the original sample for Extraction. This phase involves extracting drugs from the hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting why hair drug testing is among the most challenging techniques to execute.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS are employed to confirm any positive Screening outcomes. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. The comprehensive lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, adheres to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation standards of ISO / IEC 17025.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often termed as "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp
In Haines, AK, hair follicle testing is proving to be superior to traditional urine tests. The precision and reliability of hair tests outshine other methods, offering a detailed window into drug use history, which is critical for ensuring a drug-free environment.
While urine tests are common, they miss the detection period hair tests cover. Businesses adopting hair analysis benefit from its almost impossible-to-cheat nature and ability to catch drug use patterns that urine tests might overlook.
The extended detection window of hair follicle tests in Haines, AK, is a major advantage, covering up to 90 days. This comprehensive range offers employers insight into an individual's substance use history, providing a fuller picture than traditional methods.
For businesses, these tests render a holistic understanding of patterns rather than snapshots, which is crucial for effective policy enforcement.
Significantly reducing the risk of sample tampering, hair follicle tests in Haines, AK, offer unquestionable results. This method is nearly tamper-proof, delivering consistent and reliable outcomes.
By minimizing adulteration and substitution risks, hair tests ensure the integrity of the results, upholding the strict standards required by professional and legal entities alike.
Accredited Drug Testing provides convenient access to testing services across the nation, including local centers in Haines, AK. This extensive network ensures fast and hassle-free testing experiences for all clients.
With testing locations nationwide, businesses and individuals benefit from swift service and reduced travel times, making it easier to get tested when necessary.
In Haines, AK, our testing process is designed to be simple and confidential. From ordering tests to receiving results, we address privacy concerns and maintain the ease of use for all participants.
Simplicity and confidentiality are key, ensuring that the process is smooth and trusted by all clientele, keeping personal information secure.
Our competitive pricing structures in Haines, AK, combined with quick turnaround times, offer excellent value for companies of all sizes. We provide affordable and prompt testing solutions.
Businesses benefit from our cost-effective approach, enabling them to implement rigorous testing without overextending budgets, while receiving timely and accurate results.
In Haines, AK, the precision and speed of hair follicle drug tests make them exceptionally reliable. They offer high accuracy in detecting substance use and deliver results faster than other testing methods, supporting quick decision-making processes.
With impeccable precision, hair tests ensure no drug habit remains undetected. The swift turnaround time ensures businesses maintain operational efficiency without compromising on accuracy.
Employers in Haines, AK, taking advantage of hair follicle tests enjoy peace of mind knowing they are compliant with workplace policies. This testing method significantly reduces legal risks, enhancing safety and productivity.
Adhering to drug-free policies is essential for business success, and hair follicle tests offer a reliable solution to maintain compliance and secure environments.
