Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is regarded as a robust method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. The fibers of growing hair strands store biomarkers, providing a historical record of alcohol and other drugs. When collected near the scalp, hair can offer a detection window of up to about 3 months for alcohol and other drugs. It's easy to collect, somewhat resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches comprised of roughly 200 hair strands (about the size of a #2 pencil) close to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is considered ideal for both screening and confirmation processes. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, a specimen of 150mg is advisable. It's best to weigh the sample on a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn’t available, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. When referencing head hair, we mean scalp hair only. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test outcome comprises four fundamental steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the preliminary handling of a sample within a laboratory's framework. This process includes validating proper sealing and shipping, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing additional data entry not provided by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening ensures a rapid analysis for drugs of abuse. While it's a cost-effective approach for ruling out drug use in most samples, a positive screen requires confirmation for legal admissibility. Samples suspected as positive in Screening mandate subsequent confirmation.
Should a sample be deemed presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is taken from the original sample for Extraction preparation. At this step, drugs are extracted from hair at a notably lower concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most challenging method to execute.
Confirmation for any positive Screening outcomes is performed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All suspected positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if needed. The complete laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being called "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Umiat, AK
When comparing hair follicle tests to traditional urine tests, the benefits become evident. Hair tests provide superior detection accuracy with a much wider window of detection, often revealing drug use that urine tests might miss. Their reliability has made them a favorite among employers and officials looking to ensure a drug-free environment.
Extended Detection Window in Umiat, AK
One of the significant benefits of hair follicle testing is its extended detection window of up to 90 days. This allows companies to gain comprehensive insights into an individual's substance use history, supporting informed decisions and enhancing overall safety. Such an extensive window surpasses that of many other testing methods.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Umiat, AK
Hair follicle testing is exceptionally tamper-resistant, reducing the risk of manipulation or adulteration. The collection process is observed, ensuring the integrity of the sample and safeguarding against potential attempts to alter results. This makes hair testing a reliable choice for accurate detection.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Umiat, AK
Accredited Drug Testing provides unmatched convenience through our nationwide network of testing centers. Residents of Umiat, AK, benefit from our local presence, ensuring quick, easy, and hassle-free access to our services. This strategic spread guarantees that comprehensive testing is always within reach.
Simple, Confidential Process in Umiat, AK
Our process is designed to be simple and confidential, prioritizing your privacy at every step. From ordering a test to receiving results, customer ease is our focus, with efficient procedures ensuring you can access your outcomes securely and swiftly, thus addressing all privacy values and concerns.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Umiat, AK
We offer competitive pricing structures without compromising on quality. Our clients in Umiat, AK, can expect fast turnaround times for their tests, ensuring quick access to results while enjoying excellent value for their investment. Whether for small businesses or large corporations, our pricing fits all size needs.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Umiat, AK
Hair follicle drug testing stands out for its remarkable speed and precision in detecting substance use. The analysis is meticulously conducted, offering highly accurate outcomes that you can trust. Whether it's identifying long-term drug use or confirming substance abstinence, the reliability of hair testing ensures results that are beyond reproach.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Umiat, AK
Implementing hair follicle testing can enhance workplace safety by ensuring compliance with drug-free policies. It not only reduces legal risks but also promotes an environment of trust and well-being, offering employers peace of mind knowing they are adhering to best practices in employee health and safety.