Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective method for uncovering the use of drugs and alcohol. Hair retains evidence of alcohol and drug use over extended periods by locking biomarkers within the strands' growing fibers. Harvested near the scalp, hair can reveal the presence of alcohol and drugs for a period of up to three months. Collection is straightforward, resistant to adulteration, and convenient to transport.
An ideal sample for initial screening and subsequent confirmation consists of a 1.5-inch section of approximately 200 hairs (comparable in thickness to a #2 pencil) sourced from the scalp, providing 100mg of hair. For tests requiring EtG, additional assessments, or involving more than ten panels, 150mg of hair is suggested. We advise using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample accurately. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent volume of body hair can be collected. In discussions about head hair, we refer specifically to scalp hair, while body hair includes hair from regions like the face and underarms.
Process Overview
The laboratory drug testing process encompasses four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step where the sample is entered into the lab’s system. This step involves checking the sample's seal and shipment integrity, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fulfilling any additional data input not available from an electronic chain of custody.
Screening entails performing a preliminary drug abuse check. This cost-effective step helps exclude drug use for most samples, but a positive result necessitates confirmation for legal admissibility. Samples indicated as positive during Screening require further confirmation.
If Screening suggests a positive result, further hair specimens are taken from the original sample for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at concentrations much lower than other methods (e.g., urine or saliva), thus making hair drug analysis a complex undertaking.
Positive screening results are validated using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Any presumptive positive samples are cleansed as required before confirmation. The comprehensive lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, follows both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 certification.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests", the procedure examines the hair strand itself rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in New River, AZ
Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing offers superior detection accuracy and reliability. Hair tests can identify substance use over an extended period, providing a more comprehensive view of an individual’s drug history and reducing the chances of manipulation or error.
Extended Detection Window in New River, AZ
With the ability to detect substances used up to 90 days prior, hair follicle testing is invaluable for employers seeking a detailed account of an individual’s substance history. This extended window helps make well-informed decisions regarding hiring and employee retention.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in New River, AZ
The hair follicle test offers a high level of security, significantly reducing the risk of sample tampering. Its reliable nature provides unquestionable results, ensuring that employers and legal systems can trust the findings of each test conducted.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in New River, AZ
Our extensive network of nationwide testing centers ensures quick and hassle-free access to hair follicle testing services. Whether in New River or any city across the country, our centers provide reliable service that is convenient and accessible.
Simple, Confidential Process in New River, AZ
Our hair follicle testing process is straightforward and ensures confidentiality. From ordering the test to receiving the results, everything is designed to protect privacy and ease of use, addressing the needs of individuals and companies alike.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in New River, AZ
We offer competitive pricing and rapid turnaround times for hair follicle testing. Our services provide great value for businesses of all sizes, ensuring that cost and efficiency are balanced to meet your company’s needs.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in New River, AZ
Hair follicle drug tests offer fast and precise detection of substances, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in results. This method is known for its reliability in identifying drug use, making it an essential tool for employers and legal entities in New River, AZ.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in New River, AZ
Hair follicle testing helps employers adhere to drug-free workplace policies, minimizing legal risks. This method enhances workplace safety and provides peace of mind, ensuring that policies are consistently enforced and contributing to a secure work environment.
