Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Valdez, AK

Employment, DOT, Court Ordered, Personal

Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG

0 Hair Drug Testing Centers in Valdez

What it is, How it works

Hair testing has gained recognition as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extended overview of alcohol and drug usage by encapsulating biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair strand. When collected near the scalp, hair can offer up to a 3-month detection timeframe for alcohol and drugs. Hair is easy to collect, relatively hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.

A 1.5-inch segment consisting of around 200 hair strands (approximately the width of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the optimal sample for testing and confirmation. For EtG, special tests, and/or assessments beyond 10 panels, 150mg is suggested. We advise using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen. If scalp hair is not available, an equivalent body hair sample can be used. Head hair refers specifically to scalp hair, while body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The four key phases in the lab processing of a drug test result are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the first step, where a sample is integrated into a lab's system. This involves validating that the sample was correctly sealed and shipped, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data not provided by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening conducts an initial, rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. Though Screening is a low-cost approach to eliminate drug usage on most samples, a positive screen requires confirmation to be court-admissible. Any samples that are preliminarily positive in Screening need a secondary confirmation.

Should a sample be preliminarily positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is taken from the initial sample and readied for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at a much lower concentration than alternative methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most challenging methodology to execute.

Confirmation of any positive screening results is conducted through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. The entire lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is audited under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

  • Extended detection window: Hair drug tests can identify drug use for up to 90 days, while urine tests have a shorter detection period.
  • Hard to falsify: It is extremely challenging to manipulate a hair drug test, leading to more reliable results.
  • Historical insight: It can offer a timeline of drug use over time, not just immediate usage.

Limitations:

  • Not suitable for recent use: It takes about 5-7 days for drugs to be detectable in hair.
  • Expense: Hair drug tests generally cost more than other drug testing methods.
  • Result variation: Factors such as hair color and individual differences in hair growth can influence the concentration of drug metabolites in the hair.

Note: While commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests", the test itself examines the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

In Valdez, AK, hair follicle testing offers superior detection accuracy when compared to traditional urine testing. While urine tests are common, hair testing provides a more comprehensive view of substance history.

Hair tests capture a longer detection window, enhancing reliability. Employers and legal entities in Valdez, AK, prefer this method due to its precision over urine testing.

Extended Detection Window

Hair follicle tests in Valdez, AK, reveal drug use over an extended detection period, up to 90 days. This long window allows employers a deep insight into an individual's substance use history.

Unlike shorter urine test periods, hair testing provides a comprehensive view, ideal for evaluating consistent patterns and ensuring workplace safety and compliance.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Valdez, AK hair follicle tests offer a tamper-resistant method for drug detection. Unlike other tests, they minimize the risk of adulteration, ensuring authentic results.

The inherent nature of hair testing in Valdez, AK makes it nearly impervious to cheating, providing reliable outcomes for employers and authorities who require unquestionable results.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Our testing centers in Valdez, AK and nationwide offer convenient access for hair follicle drug testing. With locations across the country, you can find a center nearby, ensuring swift testing procedures.

The ease of access makes it simple for individuals and businesses in Valdez, AK to utilize our services without hassle, saving time and unnecessary stress.

Simple, Confidential Process

In Valdez, AK, enjoy a simple and confidential process for hair follicle testing. The entire procedure, from ordering to receiving results, is streamlined for user comfort.

Our confidential approach prioritizes your privacy, making sure that your information remains secure throughout, giving you peace of mind during and after the process.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Our hair follicle testing in Valdez, AK is characterized by affordable pricing and quick turnaround, offering excellent value for businesses. We emphasize competitive pricing to meet various company needs.

The rapid processing of tests ensures you receive results swiftly, providing economic and efficient solutions to meet any company's drug testing requirements.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Hair follicle drug tests in Valdez, AK deliver fast, precise, and reliable results. Known for their remarkable accuracy, these tests efficiently identify substance use, ensuring confidence in the outcomes.

These tests stand out for their quick processing times, making sure that you receive results promptly. In Valdez, AK, it's the go-to choice for employers and individuals seeking trustable drug testing.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Employers in Valdez, AK gain peace of mind with hair follicle testing by adhering to drug-free policies. This method helps reduce legal risks and boosts workplace safety.

By implementing hair testing, companies can ensure compliance and foster a safer working environment, reducing incidences of substance misuse and enhancing overall productivity.

(800) 221-4291