Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair tests are increasingly recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extended timeline for detecting alcohol and drugs by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the growing strand. When collected near the root, hair can offer a detection span of up to roughly 90 days for alcohol and drugs. Hair is easy to gather, somewhat resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch sample consisting of about 200 hair strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp provides 100mg, which is the perfect amount for testing and confirming. For EtG, additional exams, or tests beyond 10 panels, it is advised to gather 150mg of the hair sample. It is advisable to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is unavailable, an equivalent amount from body hair can be used. References to head hair specifically talk about scalp hair. Meanwhile, body hair refers to any other type (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Overview of the Process
The four essential steps in the laboratory processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the initial entry of a sample into the laboratory's system. This step includes confirming the sample's proper sealing and shipping, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any necessary data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening consists of a preliminary rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. While Screening is an economical method to exclude drug consumption in most samples, a positive screening requires confirmation to be legally admissible. Samples with a presumptive positive result require a secondary confirmation.
When a sample is presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is taken from the initial sample for Extraction. In this step, drugs are extracted from hair at much lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening a more challenging method to carry out.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are cleansed before confirmation if necessary. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is overseen under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the certification to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: The so-called "hair follicle tests" actually test the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the skin
Why Hair Follicle Testing Surpasses Urine Testing in Laporte, CO
Hair follicle testing offers a distinct advantage over traditional urine tests in terms of detection and reliability. While urine tests typically cover a short detection window, hair testing can reveal substance use for up to 90 days, offering a more comprehensive understanding of an individual's drug habits. This superior accuracy ensures more truthful results and supports better decision-making for employers.
Additionally, hair testing is less susceptible to manipulation compared to urine tests. With observed collection procedures, the chances of sample tampering are significantly reduced, ensuring the integrity of the results. For organizations in Laporte, CO, hair follicle testing not only provides peace of mind with its reliability but also promotes a safer, drug-free workplace environment.
Extended Detection Window in Laporte, CO
The extensive detection window of hair follicle testing is a significant advantage for employers in Laporte, CO. Unlike urine tests that only reveal recent drug use, hair tests can detect substance history for up to 90 days. This broader window gives employers a detailed view of a person's drug usage, aiding in better hiring or monitoring decisions.
This comprehensive perspective allows businesses to understand potential long-term substance issues, enhancing their ability to maintain a safer workplace. For those requiring thorough screening, hair follicle tests provide the necessary depth and breadth of information.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Laporte, CO
Hair follicle testing significantly diminishes the likelihood of sample adulteration. In Laporte, CO, the testing procedure for hair samples is stringent, making it almost impossible to tamper with or manipulate the results. This reliability offers organizations confidence in the accuracy of the outcomes, which is crucial for maintaining integrity in drug testing.
The inherent tamper-resistant nature of hair testing stands out as a key benefit, especially for employers who prioritize dependability in their drug screening programs. It ensures that the data collected is a true reflection of substance use, free from external tampering.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Laporte, CO
The convenience of having nationwide testing centers, including in Laporte, CO, ensures easy access to hair follicle testing services. Accredited Drug Testing provides hassle-free testing experiences, making it simple for individuals and organizations to locate a center nearby and receive quick testing solutions.
Our widespread availability guarantees that regardless of location, reliable testing services are within reach. This accessibility supports both local and national employers in maintaining efficient and effective drug-testing programs without logistical challenges.
Simple, Confidential Process in Laporte, CO
The process of hair follicle testing in Laporte, CO, is designed to be straightforward and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, clients are assured of privacy throughout each phase, addressing any concerns related to confidentiality while reinforcing the smoothness and ease of the testing experience.
Our commitment to simplicity ensures that individuals and organizations can conduct essential testing without complications, focusing on the critical outcomes without worrying about procedural hurdles. This straightforward approach combines convenience with respect for privacy.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Laporte, CO
Accredited Drug Testing offers competitive pricing structures that cater to companies of all sizes, ensuring affordable access to high-quality hair follicle tests in Laporte, CO. Coupled with fast turnaround times, these tests provide excellent value, delivering peace of mind through timely and accurate results.
Our efficient service is designed to support businesses seeking cost-effective solutions for their drug testing needs without compromising on reliability or speed. This combination of affordability and rapid results enhances the overall value proposition for employers striving to maintain safe and drug-free workplaces.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Laporte, CO
Hair follicle tests are known for their speed and accuracy. In Laporte, CO, these tests provide a powerful tool for detecting substance use accurately, offering quicker turnaround times than many traditional methods. The precision of hair testing ensures that employers get the crucial information they need promptly, facilitating timely interventions when necessary.
Employers appreciate the efficiency of hair follicle tests, as they consistently deliver results that are both thorough and reliable. The method's sophistication in identifying drug traces contributes to its high regard among businesses seeking effective and rapid solutions for maintaining a drug-free workplace.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Laporte, CO
For employers in Laporte, CO, implementing hair follicle testing aligns with drug-free workplace policies, ensuring compliance and reducing liability risks. This rigorous testing method supports effective policy enforcement, helping maintain a secure and safe working environment while protecting the interests and reputation of the business.
By adopting hair follicle testing, employers can enjoy peace of mind knowing that their drug screening practices meet high standards. This compliance not only reflects a commitment to workplace safety but also fosters a culture of accountability and trust within the organization.
