Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is acknowledged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. It records an extended history of substance intake by encapsulating biomarkers within the hair fibers. When taken from near the scalp, hair can exhibit a detection period of up to roughly three months for drugs and alcohol. It is easy to gather hair samples, difficult to tamper with them, and straightforward to send.
A 1.5-inch sample comprising around 200 strands of hair (roughly the thickness of a #2 pencil) from the scalp provides 100mg, which is optimal for screening and confirmation. For EtG, added tests, and/or panels over 10, a sample of 150mg is advised. It's suggested to measure the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is missing, a similar quantity of body hair can be used. When we refer to head hair, we only mean scalp hair. Body hair includes all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result consists of four main steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning includes the initial incorporation of a sample into the laboratory’s framework. This step checks if the sample was correctly sealed and shipped, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and ensures any extra data entry not available through an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as a quick preliminary check for drugs. Although Screening provides a budget-friendly method to eliminate drug use in most samples, a positive result requires confirmation to be admissible in legal proceedings. Any sample with a presumptive positive result in Screening necessitates additional confirmation.
When a sample is preliminarily positive in Screening, additional hair is prepared from the initial specimen for Extraction. During Extraction, drugs are obtained from hair at lower concentrations compared to other methods (like urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening a more complex procedure.
Confirmation of any positive result from Screening is completed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with a presumptive positive result undergo washing before confirmation if needed. The complete procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand and not the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in White Hills, AZ
When comparing hair follicle testing to traditional urine tests, the advantages are clear in White Hills, AZ. Hair tests boast superior detection accuracy and reliability, providing a more comprehensive understanding of an individual's drug use history. While urine tests are common, hair testing is a preferred method due to its thoroughness and precision.
Extended Detection Window in White Hills, AZ
Hair follicle testing offers an extensive detection period, capable of identifying drug use up to 90 days prior. This long-term detection enables employers in White Hills, AZ to gain a full understanding of an employee's or applicant's substance history, contributing to more informed hiring and workforce management decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in White Hills, AZ
Hair follicle testing provides a significant advantage in preventing sample adulteration. In White Hills, AZ, this testing method ensures reliable and unquestionable results, significantly reducing the potential for tampering. The process's inherent resistance to manipulation underscores the test's reliability and accuracy.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in White Hills, AZ
Accredited Drug Testing ensures accessibility across the nation, including in White Hills, AZ. Our extensive network of testing centers allows for swift and effortless access to testing services, offering convenience to individuals and companies alike. Nationwide presence ensures fast and easy testing procedures.
Simple, Confidential Process in White Hills, AZ
Our testing services in White Hills, AZ offer a straightforward and confidential process. From ordering to taking the test and receiving the results, every step is designed to prioritize privacy and ease of use, addressing any concerns individuals may have about confidentiality and simplicity.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in White Hills, AZ
In White Hills, AZ, our hair follicle testing services deliver exceptional value with competitive pricing and quick turnaround times. This ensures companies of all sizes can access reliable testing without incurring prohibitive costs, offering peace of mind and efficient service.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in White Hills, AZ
Hair follicle drug tests in White Hills, AZ, offer unmatched precision and speed. These tests are designed to deliver highly accurate results promptly, making them an invaluable tool in detecting substance use. With their ability to quickly and correctly determine drug use, hair follicle tests ensure confident decision-making for employers and other stakeholders.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in White Hills, AZ
Implementing hair follicle testing allows employers in White Hills, AZ to uphold drug-free workplace policies effectively. This testing method not only reduces legal liabilities but also bolsters workplace safety, providing employers with peace of mind and enhancing overall employee well-being.
