Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as a robust method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair effectively provides a long-term record of drug and alcohol use by capturing biomarkers within the strands of growing hair. When hair is collected near the scalp, it can offer a detection period of up to around 3 months for alcohol and other substances. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively secure against tampering, and easy to send.
A 1.5-inch segment of approximately 200 hair strands (roughly the size of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg, which is the optimal sample for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. We advise using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen. If scalp hair is not available, a comparable amount of body hair can be collected. When we mention head hair, we specifically refer to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The processing of a drug test result at a laboratory consists of four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial entry of a sample into the laboratory’s system. This process verifies that the sample was securely sealed and appropriately shipped, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any additional data input not handled by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as an initial rapid check for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is an economical method to eliminate drug use in most samples, a positive screen must be verified to be usable in legal proceedings. Samples that are initially positive in Screening necessitate subsequent confirmation.
Should a sample yield a presumptive positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen and prepared for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are extracted from the hair at significantly lower concentrations than other techniques (such as urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug screening is the most complex method to conduct.
Confirmation of any presumptively positive screening result is executed utilizing GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo a wash prior to confirmation as needed. The laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is examined under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation as well as compliance with the ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often called "hair follicle tests", the analysis is performed on the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
In Nelson Lagoon, AK, hair follicle testing is forefront due to its superior accuracy and reliability compared to urine testing. Hair testing provides an extensive window for detecting substance use, ensuring thorough and dependable results. This reliability becomes vital for companies enforcing strict no-drug policies as it reflects an overarching assurance in workforce integrity and safety.
One of the standout features of hair follicle testing in Nelson Lagoon, AK, is its extended detection window of up to 90 days. This comprehensive timeframe allows employers to gain a thorough understanding of an individual's substance history, assisting in making informed decisions when screening potential hires or monitoring current employees. The extended detection ability ensures no stone is left unturned in maintaining workplace integrity.
Residents of Nelson Lagoon, AK, can trust hair follicle tests to deliver tamper-resistant results. Unlike other testing methods that may be prone to manipulation, hair tests secure samples in a robust procedure, making alterations virtually impossible. This ensures the validity and reliability of the test outcomes, supporting organizations in upholding drug-free environments.
Our testing facilities, including those in Nelson Lagoon, AK, provide convenient access to drug testing services. With a nationwide network, our centers ensure easy and prompt testing, void of unnecessary delays. This convenience reduces operational downtime, allowing businesses across the country to maintain productivity while ensuring a safe work environment without hassle.
In Nelson Lagoon, AK, the simple and confidential process of hair drug testing is designed with user privacy in mind. Ordering, taking the test, and receiving results is straightforward, addressing any concerns regarding confidentiality. This user-friendly approach enhances client experience, making the process smooth for individuals and companies alike.
Offering competitive pricing and fast turnaround in Nelson Lagoon, AK, our hair follicle testing services ensure value for all business sizes. This affordability, coupled with rapid result delivery, provides companies with the peace of mind to focus on other priorities, knowing their testing needs are being met efficiently and cost-effectively.
The accuracy of hair follicle tests in Nelson Lagoon, AK is unmatched. Unlike traditional methods, hair tests provide reliable results by detecting drug use with high precision. The clarity of results and the speed at which they're obtained make hair tests an asset in maintaining a drug-free environment, ensuring quick decisions can be made when necessary. Further emphasizing their role in upholding safety and integrity in workplaces.
Ensuring compliance and peace of mind for employers in Nelson Lagoon, AK, hinges on robust drug-free policies supported by hair follicle testing. Its reliable nature reduces legal risks while improving workplace safety. By choosing this method, employers can confidently foster a secure and healthy work atmosphere that adheres to compliance requirements.
