Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now regarded as a highly effective method for identifying usage of drugs and alcohol. Hair captures a prolonged history of alcohol and drug intake by securing biomarkers within the hair fibers as they develop. When samples are taken close to the scalp, hair can detect alcohol and drugs up to a period of roughly three months. The process of collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and easy to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, comprising approximately 200 strands of hair (similar in width to a #2 pencil) from the scalp's closest point, yields 100mg, which is the optimal sample size for screening and validation. For EtG add-ons and/or testing beyond 10 panels, it's advised to have 150mg of the sample. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample is suggested. In the absence of scalp hair, a proportional quantity of body hair is viable. Mention of head hair pertains exclusively to scalp hair, whereas body hair indicates all other hair categories (such as facial and axillary hair).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result is broken down into four essential steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning encompasses the initial incorporation of the sample into the laboratory's workflow. This step verifies proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and addresses any additional data entry not included by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening serves as a rapid preliminary check for drug abuse. It is an economical way to dismiss drug use in most samples; however, a positive screen must be substantiated for it to be court-admissible. Notably, any sample that returns a presumptive positive during the Screening necessitates further confirmation.
Should a sample yield a presumptive positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and readied for Extraction. This stage involves extracting drugs from hair at concentrations considerably lower than those in other methodologies (e.g., urine or saliva), rendering hair drug screening one of the more complex methodologies.
Confirmation for any positive screening result is achieved via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Prior to confirmation, presumptive positive samples are washed, if necessary. The comprehensive laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is examined under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often called "hair follicle tests," these tests analyze the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Avon, CO
Hair testing trumps traditional urine tests due to its superior detection precision and reliability. It offers a broader scope of detection, crucial for those needing detailed insights in Avon, CO. This testing format is less susceptible to manipulation, providing a more secure evaluation process than typical urine tests.
Extended Detection Window in Avon, CO
Hair follicle testing excels with an extended detection window, offering insight into drug use over approximately 90 days. This feature is invaluable for organizations aiming for a more comprehensive understanding of a candidate's or employee's substance history.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Avon, CO
One of the key strengths of hair follicle testing in Avon, CO, is its resistance to tampering. This method significantly reduces the potential for sample adulteration, ensuring that results remain trustworthy and free from external influence.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Avon, CO
The extensive network of testing facilities in Avon, CO, and across the nation ensures convenient access to hair follicle testing services. This allows individuals and employers to undergo timely tests without unnecessary delay.
Simple, Confidential Process in Avon, CO
In Avon, CO, the process for hair follicle testing is straightforward and confidential. From ordering to sample collection and result delivery, the process is designed to respect privacy while providing a seamless user experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Avon, CO
Our hair follicle testing services in Avon, CO, offer competitive pricing structures and swift turnaround times. This balance of cost-effectiveness and efficiency ensures excellent value for businesses of all sizes.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Avon, CO
Hair follicle drug testing offers rapid and precise outcomes in substance detection, making it ideal for timely assessments in Avon, CO. This method ensures that the evaluation of substance use is both swift and definitive, rendering it a reliable choice for individuals seeking reassuring accuracy.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Avon, CO
Employers in Avon, CO, can gain significant peace of mind by employing hair follicle testing. This method aids in maintaining adherence to drug-free policies, reducing legal liabilities, and promoting a safer workplace environment.
