What it is, How it works

Hair analysis is recognized as a robust means for identifying substance use involving drugs and alcohol. Hair acts as a chronic record of substance presence by embedding biomarkers within the strands of a growing hair. When sampled near the scalp, hair can offer an approximately 3-month window for detecting alcohol and related drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively secure against tampering, and simple to transport.

A sample measuring 1.5 inches with roughly 200 hair strands (approximating a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the ideal quantity for analysis and verification. For EtG, additional analyses, and tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advisable. Using a jewelerâ€™s scale to weigh the sample is suggested. If scalp hair is absent, a comparable amount of body hair can be utilized. When mentioning head hair, it specifically refers to scalp hair. Body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The essential steps in lab processing of drug testing results encompass Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning entails the primary handling of a specimen into a labâ€™s framework. This process checks proper sealing and shipment of the sample, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizes any extra data entry not included by electronic chain of custody systems.

Screening includes an initial rapid assessment for drug abuse. While cost-effective, Screening serves predominantly to rule out drug presence in most samples; however, to be judicially admissible, a positive result requires confirmation. Samples testing preliminary positive in Screening necessitate an additional confirmation step.

If Screening yields a presumptive positive outcome, more hair is drawn from the original sample for Extraction. During this phase, drug extraction from hair occurs at lower concentrations than other methods such as urine or oral fluids, hence making hair screening the most complex to execute.

Positive screens are verified using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Presumptive positive specimens are cleansed before confirmation, as needed. The complete procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

Extended detection period: Hair drug screening can identify drug use for up to 90 days, unlike urine testing which offers a shorter detection period.
Hard to manipulate: Cheating a hair drug test is considerably challenging, ensuring more factual outcomes.
Tracks historical usage: It traces patterns of drug usage over time, beyond just recent consumption.

Limitations:

Incapable of detecting recent use: Detection in hair requires around 5-7 days post consumption to manifest.
Expense: Hair testing is typically pricier than alternative testing options.
Result variability: Differences such as hair color and individual growth can impact metabolite concentration in hair.

Note: Despite commonly being called "hair follicle tests", the analysis pertains to the hair strand itself rather than focusing on the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Testing is Superior in Port Armstrong: Hair testing presents significant advantages over urine tests, notably extended detection and enhanced accuracy. Its reliability makes it the preferred choice for those enforcing stringent drug policies.

Extends detection capabilities beyond urine testing.
Proven superior accuracy increases policy compliance assurance.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection in Port Armstrong: Hair follicle tests offer a substantial 90-day drug use detection window, providing employers with a comprehensive review of a potential or current employee's substance history.

Gives a detailed insight into an individual's long-term habits.
Enables better-informed hiring decisions with long-term data.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Port Armstrong: Hair tests significantly lower the chance of sample tampering, giving unquestionable results. Their resistance to deception assures employers of test integrity.

Sample integrity maintained by rigorous testing conditions.
Reliable results guarantee compliance with professional standards.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Testing Locations in Port Armstrong: Our broad network of testing centers ensures swift, easy access to hair testing services, simplifying the process for participants nationwide.

Easy access to testing centers diminishes logistical hurdles.
Quick, hassle-free service for peace of mind.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Port Armstrong: The hair testing procedure is straightforward and confidential, addressing privacy concerns and assuring ease of both testing and result reception.

User-friendly operation from start to finish.
Confidential practices protect personal privacy.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable and Timely in Port Armstrong: We offer competitive pricing and rapid turnaround times, ensuring you receive excellent value and assurance for businesses of all sizes.

Cost-effective solutions fit any budget.
Swift processing delivers peace of mind efficiently.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Hair Follicle Testing in Port Armstrong: Reliable and swift, hair follicle drug tests provide accurate results you can trust. Their precision ensures substance use is detected effectively, offering fast and dependable outcomes for businesses and organizations needing decisive answers.

The accuracy of tests ensures substance detection is spot-on.
Results are processed quickly, minimizing wait times.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind in Port Armstrong: Hair follicle testing keeps employers compliant with drug-free policies, minimizing legal exposure while ensuring workplace safety.