Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as a significant technique for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged record of alcohol and other substances by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. When collected near the scalp, hair can offer an approximate detection window of up to 90 days for alcohol and other substances. Hair is straightforward to collect, hard to tamper with, and easy to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (similar to the size of a #2 pencil) near the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the ideal sample size for screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the specimen. If scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be used. When referring to head hair, it implies scalp hair exclusively. Body hair encompasses all other hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four primary steps in laboratory analysis of a drug test outcome include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial incorporation of a sample into the lab's system. This step confirms that the sample was properly sealed and shipped, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any additional data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening performs an initial rapid check for drug abuse. While Screening is an economical approach to exclude drug consumption in most samples, a positive screen requires confirmation to be valid in legal proceedings. Any samples that show a presumptive positive in Screening necessitate a secondary verification.
If a sample is declared presumptive positive after Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. In Extraction, substances are isolated from hair at significantly lower concentrations than in other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening a more challenging methodology.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is carried out via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples that are presumptive positive undergo washing before confirmation as needed. The full laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and is accredited according to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed "hair follicle tests," the analysis examines the hair strand rather than the hair follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Poncha Springs, CO
In Poncha Springs, the benefits of hair follicle testing surpass those of urine testing. Hair testing offers a more extensive detection period, revealing substance use up to 90 days back compared to the shorter window for urine tests. This advantage ensures employers receive a more accurate and truthful account of an individual’s substance history.
Hair tests also provide superior reliability due to unalterable sample collection, unlike urine samples which are susceptible to tampering. Additionally, hair testing detects a broad spectrum of substances, delivering thorough checks that urine tests may not cover. This makes hair testing a particularly desirable method in maintaining substance-free environments in Poncha Springs.
Extended Detection Window in Poncha Springs, CO
Hair follicle testing excels in Poncha Springs by providing an extensive detection window that spans up to 90 days. This feature gives employers an in-depth view of an employee's or applicant's substance use history. Unlike other testing methods, hair tests do not rely on recent usage, offering a broader insight into long-term substance use patterns.
With an extended detection period, employers benefit from understanding consistent patterns of substance use, aiding in informed hiring and employment decisions. This comprehensive view ensures businesses maintain a safe and efficient workforce.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Poncha Springs, CO
Hair follicle testing stands out in Poncha Springs for significantly reducing the risk of sample alteration. The reliability of hair samples, often collected under monitored conditions, ensures the results are authentic and unquestionable. This characteristic is crucial for employers aiming to uphold integrity within their drug-testing programs.
The resistance to tampering offered by hair testing provides an additional layer of security. Employers gain peace of mind knowing the testing outcomes reflect genuine substance use, supporting their aim to enforce drug-free policies effectively.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Poncha Springs, CO
Access to drug testing services is simplified in Poncha Springs, thanks to our widespread network of testing centers. These facilities provide seamless and quick access to hair testing, ensuring a hassle-free experience for individuals and businesses. The accessibility of our testing locations streamlines the process, aiding in efficient drug testing.
With convenient local sites, scheduling, and performing tests become easy and straightforward. This convenience enhances the appeal for businesses and individuals seeking quick and reliable drug testing options nationwide.
Simple, Confidential Process in Poncha Springs, CO
In Poncha Springs, our hair testing process is both straightforward and confidential. From ordering the test to obtaining results, the procedure is designed to respect privacy at each stage. Our secure approach ensures that sensitive information remains protected, offering peace of mind to those being tested.
Clear instructions and simple steps define our testing process, facilitating a smooth experience. The confidentiality of this method addresses privacy concerns, confirming our commitment to a discreet and trustworthy testing experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Poncha Springs, CO
Our hair follicle testing services in Poncha Springs come with competitive pricing structures, providing excellent value for businesses great or small. The fast turnaround times ensure companies receive timely results without compromising quality. This blend of affordability and efficiency supports budgetary constraints while delivering top-notch services.
With cost-effective solutions paired with rapid results, businesses can manage their testing needs economically. This method assures firms of receiving high-quality service that aligns with both their financial and operational demands.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Poncha Springs, CO
Hair follicle testing is renowned for its swift and precise outcomes. In Poncha Springs, individuals and organizations benefit from the reliability of hair testing, which boasts high accuracy, capturing substance use effectively. This testing method minimizes the chance of erroneous results, offering stakeholders a trustworthy solution to meet their testing requirements.
Employers are assured by the fast turnaround and reliable results delivered through hair testing. The efficiency of this testing method offers a seamless solution, crucial for organizations needing timely and valid information on substance use, ensuring effective decision-making processes.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Poncha Springs, CO
Hair follicle testing helps employers in Poncha Springs adhere to workplace drug policies effectively. By offering a reliable testing mechanism, hair tests mitigate legal risks associated with non-compliance and foster safer work environments. The extended detection capacity further supports the implementation of zero-tolerance drug policies.
Employers derive peace of mind from hair follicle testing, trusting its ability to fortify workplace safety and compliance. This assurance comes from accurate, tamper-resistant results, proving vital in maintaining a secure and responsible work culture.
