Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has gained recognition as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol intake. Hair captures a historical record of alcohol and substance use by embedding biomarkers in the fibers as hair grows. When taken from near the scalp, a hair sample can reveal up to an estimated 3-month history of alcohol and drug exposure. Hair is straightforward to gather, relatively resistant to tampering, and convenient to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches of roughly 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) taken close to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, the ideal quantity for both initial screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or screenings exceeding 10 panels, it is advisable to collect 150mg of specimen. We recommend using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen. If scalp hair cannot be obtained, a comparable amount of body hair may be used. When mentioning head hair, it specifically refers to scalp hair only. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The procedure for laboratory processing of a drug test result includes four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step of integrating a sample into a laboratory’s system. This process ensures that the sample was appropriately sealed and sent, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizes any extra data input absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary assessment for substances of abuse. While Screening is an economical approach to exclude drug use in the majority of samples, a positive screen must be confirmed for legal admissibility. Any samples flagged as presumptively positive in Screening must undergo secondary confirmation.
If a sample is identified as presumptively positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction process. In this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at much lower concentrations compared to other methods (like urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug screening is the most challenging method to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All presumptive positive samples are cleaned prior to confirmation if necessary. The entire laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests", the analysis is performed on the hair strand itself, rather than on the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Platner, CO
When comparing hair follicle and urine testing methods, hair tests offer clear advantages. These tests exhibit superior detection accuracy by revealing prolonged substance use periods, something traditional urine tests miss. The reliability inherent in hair testing increases employer confidence, facilitating better decision-making processes in workforce management.
Extended Detection Window in Platner, CO
Hair follicle testing in Platner, CO provides a remarkable detection window of up to 90 days. This extensive timeframe allows employers insight into long-term substance use patterns of employees or job applicants. Unlike urine tests, the hair method offers a comprehensive view of an individual's history, justifying its use for in-depth drug monitoring programs.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Platner, CO
Hair follicle testing in Platner, CO significantly diminishes the likelihood of sample tampering. Its robust collection and analysis procedures ensure integrity, producing trustworthy results. The observed sample collection almost eliminates the risk of adulteration, offering peace of mind to employers and legal authorities looking for indisputable evidence of substance use.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Platner, CO
With a network of testing centers spread nationwide, accessing hair follicle testing services in Platner, CO is straightforward and convenient. Our strategic locations ensure stress-free testing processes, accommodating individuals from different parts of the country swiftly. Local centers in Platner enhance accessibility, adding to client satisfaction.
Simple, Confidential Process in Platner, CO
The hair follicle testing process in Platner, CO is streamlined for ease and confidentiality. From ordering to receiving results, every step safeguards privacy, addressing concerns about discretion effectively. This user-friendly approach assures clients of both a hassle-free experience and the protection of their personal information at every stage.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Platner, CO
Competitive pricing and quick response times characterize our hair follicle testing services in Platner, CO. These cost-effective solutions cater to businesses of all sizes, ensuring excellent value. Rapid result delivery alleviates any delays for employers, supporting optimal company operations and strategic decision-making.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Platner, CO
Hair follicle testing in Platner, CO guarantees swift, precise, and dependable results. Recognized for its high accuracy, this testing method detects substance use with remarkable reliability. It empowers employers and legal bodies with rapid turnaround times, ensuring timely and informed decision-making. Superior accuracy remains a hallmark, identifying drug usage patterns effectively.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Platner, CO
Hair follicle drug testing aids Platner, CO employers in maintaining compliance with drug-free workplace policies. By doing so, businesses reduce potential legal liabilities while simultaneously promoting a safer work environment. This method of testing aligns employer policies with regulatory standards, bringing assurance and stability to workplace dynamics.
