Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is widely recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol use. Hair offers a long-lasting record of alcohol and drug consumption by capturing biomarkers within the hair strand as it grows. When obtained near the scalp, hair can reveal a detection period of up to around three months for alcohol and drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, relatively hard to tamper with, and easy to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches of approximately 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, the ideal sample for assessment and validation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels above 10, 150mg of the sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample. If scalp hair is not available, a similar amount of body hair can be used. In the context of head hair, we specifically refer to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types such as facial, axillary, etc.
Process Overview
There are four primary phases involved in lab processing of a drug test: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the initial processing of a sample into a lab's system. This process includes ensuring that the sample was sealed and sent correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any other data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening refers to a preliminary rapid test for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is a cost-effective way to exclude drug use in most samples, a positive result needs verification to be usable in a legal context. Any samples that test presumptively positive in Screening require a further confirmation test.
If a sample tests presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. At this stage, drugs are extracted from hair at a much lower concentration than other methods such as urine or oral fluid, which is why hair drug testing is considered the most challenging technique to perform.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are washed as necessary before confirmation. The complete laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often called "hair follicle tests", the test actually analyzes the hair strand rather than the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
In Ganado, AZ, hair follicle testing stands out against urine testing due to its superior detection reliability. Urine tests are frequently manipulated or adulterated, whereas hair follicle methods provide a tamper-proof means of ensuring accurate results.
Unlike urine counterparts, hair tests capture a comprehensive history of substance use, making them especially valuable in assessing long-term behaviors. Their higher accuracy and resistance to cheating make hair follicle testing a preferred choice for employers and professionals.
Hair follicle tests in Ganado, AZ offer an unparalleled detection window, capturing up to 90 days of drug use history. This feature allows employers to obtain a comprehensive view of an individual’s past substance habits beyond recent activities.
In comparison to other testing methods, the ability of hair follicle tests to reveal extended use patterns provides substantial advantage. This thorough detection capability helps employers make well-informed decisions regarding their applicants or employees.
Hair follicle drug testing in Ganado, AZ is notable for its resistance to tampering. Unlike urine tests, which can be diluted or adulterated, hair samples are inherently difficult to manipulate.
This robust testing method assures businesses and institutions of reliable, unquestionable results. In high-risk environments, this reliability can be a deciding factor, providing confidence in assessments and reducing the risks of erroneous readings.
The accessibility of testing locations in Ganado, AZ simplifies the drug testing process for businesses and individuals. Accredited Drug Testing offers nationwide services, ensuring all clients can quickly access locations nearby when needed.
Local testing convenience means less disruption for employees and employers and a seamless transition to accurate evaluation procedures, guaranteeing both efficient and effective testing experiences.
Accredited Drug Testing in Ganado, AZ streamlines the drug testing journey with a straightforward and confidential process. Ordering and receiving results is hassle-free, easing concerns about privacy.
Simplicity and confidentiality define our procedures, ensuring each step, from scheduling tests to obtaining outcomes, is as effortless and discreet as possible for all parties involved.
Ganado, AZ clients benefit from Accredited Drug Testing’s competitive pricing and fast turnaround times. Affordable testing solutions are crucial for businesses of varying sizes, offering exceptional value for investment.
Our efficient processes ensure swift result delivery, minimizing delays and providing companies with quick insights, which in turn supports timely and strategic decision-making.
Employers in Ganado, AZ can trust hair follicle testing for its speed and accuracy. This method ensures the swift detection of substances, offering a high degree of precision in results. The reliability of hair testing means employers aren't left waiting for answers, making informed decisions easier and quicker.
Hair tests boast an impressive ability to accurately identify drug use timeframes. Compared to traditional methods, they're less prone to errors, which makes them an ideal choice for those seeking accurate substance detection in a timely manner.
Employers in Ganado, AZ gain peace of mind with hair follicle testing ensuring compliance with workplace drug policies. Implementing these tests reduces legal risks and enhances overall workplace safety.
By choosing hair testing, companies demonstrate a commitment to maintaining drug-free environments, effectively protecting employees and upholding safety standards essential for smooth operations and regulatory compliance.
