Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair strands capture biomarkers within the fibers, offering a detailed history of substance use. When obtained near the scalp, hair can provide up to a 3-month retrospective window for detection of alcohol and other substances. It's easy to collect, challenging to tamper with, and straightforward to send.
Gathering a 1.5-inch hair sample consisting of roughly 200 strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) close to the scalp yields about 100mg, which is ideal for analysis. For EtG, add-ons, or tests beyond 10 panels, 150mg of hair is advised. We suggest using a jeweler's scale for precision. If scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. Head hair refers solely to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory analysis of a drug test result encompasses four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, a sample is initially processed into the lab's system. This phase includes ensuring proper sealing and shipment, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any necessary data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening entitles a preliminary assessment for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is cost-effective for eliminating drug usage in the majority of cases, a positive result requires confirmation to be legal evidence. Any presumptively positive samples from Screening need further confirmation.
For samples with a presumptive positive outcome in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for further processing in Extraction. Here, drug concentration in hair is lower compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening more complex.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS is employed for confirming positive Screening results. Prior to confirmation, any samples with presumptive positives are washed as necessary. The complete process from Accessioning to Confirmation is reviewed under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair category and adherence to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often named "hair follicle tests", actual analysis involves the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in St. Paul, AK
Comparing hair follicle testing to traditional urine tests reveals significant benefits, especially in detection accuracy and reliability. Hair tests can trace a wider range of substances over a longer period, providing superior detection and reducing chances of evasion. Employers in St. Paul, AK, find this method invaluable for enforcing zero-tolerance policies.
Extended Detection Window in St. Paul, AK
Hair follicle testing offers an extended detection period, capable of identifying drug use up to 90 days prior. This feature allows employers in St. Paul, AK, to gain a more complete understanding of an individual’s substance history. Such a comprehensive overview supports better decision-making for both pre-employment screening and ongoing monitoring.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in St. Paul, AK
Hair follicle testing significantly reduces the potential for sample tampering, making it a highly reliable method for drug screening. In St. Paul, AK, this testing approach ensures the integrity of the sample collected, providing employers and legal professionals with confidence in the authenticity of the results obtained.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in St. Paul, AK
Testing services in St. Paul, AK, are extremely convenient, with nationwide centers providing quick and hassle-free access. This network ensures employers and individuals can easily access reliable testing, no matter their location, streamlining the process for all involved.
Simple, Confidential Process in St. Paul, AK
The hair follicle testing process in St. Paul, AK, is designed to be straightforward and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, the entire procedure safeguards privacy and maintains ease of use. Clients can have confidence in the discreet handling of their sensitive information.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in St. Paul, AK
Hair follicle drug testing in St. Paul, AK, offers competitive pricing with quick turnaround times, delivering excellent value for businesses of various sizes. This affordability, paired with swift processing, provides companies with reliable results without breaking their budget.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in St. Paul, AK
The hair follicle drug tests in St. Paul, AK, are renowned for their precision and quick results. Hair testing surpasses traditional methods, offering higher detection accuracy and reliability in identifying substance use. With these tests, you are assured of quick, dependable, and precise outcomes that help in making well-informed decisions efficiently.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in St. Paul, AK
Utilizing hair follicle testing can help employers in St. Paul, AK, uphold workplace drug-free policies, enhancing safety and minimizing legal risks. By choosing this method, employers can ensure compliance with regulations, thus providing peace of mind through safer and more secure working environments.
