Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as a robust method for identifying drug and alcohol usage. Hair captures a comprehensive record of alcohol and drugs by embedding biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When sourced near the scalp, hair can reveal up to a three-month history of alcohol and drug usage. Hair collection is uncomplicated, challenging to tamper with, and convenient for transportation.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches and consisting of approximately 200 hair strands (around the thickness of a #2 pencil) from the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is ideal for screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is advised. It is suggested to weigh the sample with a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. When mentioning head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair denotes any other hair types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four primary steps in processing a drug test result in the lab include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial integration of a sample into the lab's framework. This step includes checking the sample's proper sealing and shipment, giving it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and handling any supplementary data entry not covered by the electronic chain of custody system.
Screening acts as a preliminary examination for drugs of abuse. While Screening offers a budget-friendly means to rule out drug presence in most samples, a positive result must be verified for legal acceptability. Samples showing initial positive results during Screening require additional confirmation.
If Screening indicates a sample as presumptively positive, more hair is extracted from the specimen for Extraction. Drugs are removed from hair at lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most complex method to execute.
Confirmation of any initial positive screening result is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples electronically flagged as positive undergo a wash before confirmation when necessary. Each lab procedure from Accessioning through Confirmation is overseen under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though called "hair follicle tests", these tests analyze the hair strand, not the follicle underneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Unalaska, AK
Hair follicle tests trump traditional urine tests with superior detection precision. By capturing a wider time frame of substance use, they offer more reliable results than urine tests, providing greater accuracy and certainty for both employers and legal professionals.
Unlike urine tests, hair follicle tests unveil a more comprehensive overview of substance use. With near impossible potential for manipulation, hair tests ensure integrity and dependability in their outcomes.
Extended Detection Window in Unalaska, AK
Hair follicle testing has a significant advantage with its extended detection window of up to 90 days. Employers benefit from this comprehensive view of an individual's substance history, observing any drug use over a prolonged period.
This extended timeline captures habitual substance use patterns, providing employers with critical information to maintain a drug-free workplace.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Unalaska, AK
Hair follicle tests greatly reduce the risk of sample adulteration. By collecting hair samples in an observed environment, the testing process becomes nearly impossible to tamper with, ensuring reliable and unquestionable results.
Employers in Unalaska value this aspect, as it provides peace of mind knowing the tests reflect true substance use and maintain integrity.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Unalaska, AK
Our nationwide and local Unalaska testing centers offer convenient and hassle-free access to services. They provide swift and easy testing experiences across numerous locations, ensuring testing is just a step away.
Through broad accessibility, we make substance testing straightforward, offering practicality and efficiency for businesses needing quick solutions.
Simple, Confidential Process in Unalaska, AK
The process for ordering, taking, and receiving hair follicle test results is simple and confidential, ensuring privacy is maintained at every stage. Clients can rely on a discreet process that respects personal information and needs.
This assures individuals and companies that their testing journey remains secure, quick, and user-friendly without compromising on confidentiality.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Unalaska, AK
Our competitive pricing structures combined with fast turnaround times deliver exceptional value. Hair follicle tests are completed efficiently, offering results promptly for companies of all sizes.
In Unalaska, businesses benefit from cost-effective solutions without sacrificing quality, ensuring budget-friendly options and timely data accessibility.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Unalaska, AK
Hair follicle drug tests are known for their precision and speed. With high accuracy, they ensure accurate detection of substance use, making them an essential tool for employers and legal entities seeking trustworthy results.
These tests provide swift outcomes, significantly reducing waiting time. Their reliability in Unalaska makes them a preferred choice for conclusive testing of prohibited substances.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Unalaska, AK
Hair follicle testing supports compliance with workplace drug policies, mitigating legal risks. It ensures a safer work environment by identifying and addressing substance use, which promotes both employee safety and productivity.
Using these tests guarantees adherence to drug-free standards, offering employers confidence in maintaining regulations and operational peace of mind.
