Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as a significant method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a long-standing record of alcohol and other substances by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. When taken near the scalp, hair can yield up to an estimated 3-month detection timeframe for alcohol and other substances. Hair is straightforward to collect, relatively tough to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch portion consisting of around 200 hair strands (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg, the optimal amount for initial screening and confirmation. For EtG, supplementary analyses, and/or examinations exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. It's advisable to measure the sample using a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair be unavailable, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be gathered. When mentioning head hair, it pertains to scalp hair exclusively. Body hair denotes all other types of hair (facial, underarm, etc.).
Process Overview
The four fundamental stages in the lab handling of a drug test outcome are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the preliminary handling of a sample into a laboratory’s system. This includes confirming that the sample was appropriately sealed and sent, allocating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and filling in any additional data entry not provided by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails an initial swift check for abusive drugs. Although Screening is an economical approach to exclude drug use in most samples, a positive screen must be substantiated to be admissible in legal settings. Any samples presumably positive in Screening necessitate an additional confirmation.
Should a sample be presumably positive during the Screening stage, extra hair is taken from the original sample for Extraction. In this stage, drugs are retrieved from hair at a significantly reduced concentration than in other approaches (e.g. urine or saliva), which is why hair drug screening remains the most intricate methodology to execute.
Verification of any positive screening outcome is performed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumed positive samples are cleansed before verification as necessary. The complete lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes assessment under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and the authorization to ISO / IEC 17025 norms.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While frequently referred to as "hair follicle tests", the test itself examines the hair shaft and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Rand, CO
When comparing hair follicle tests with traditional urine tests, the former excels in detection accuracy and reliability. Hair testing provides a broader detection window, offering insights unavailable through other testing methods. In Rand, CO, these benefits make hair testing the preferred choice for those requiring comprehensive drug usage evaluations.
Extended Detection Window in Rand, CO
Employers in Rand, CO, benefit from hair follicle testing's extended detection period, which spans up to 90 days. This prolonged window offers a robust overview of an individual’s substance use history, providing solid groundwork for evaluating potential hires or current employees more thoroughly than shorter-term tests can.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Rand, CO
One of the key strengths of hair follicle drug testing lies in its resistance to tampering. This method significantly curtails the chance of sample adulteration, yielding results that are dependable and unquestionable. Rand, CO, residents seeking reliable drug testing can rely on these methods to ensure integrity.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Rand, CO
With testing centers established nationwide, individuals in Rand, CO, enjoy easy access to necessary drug testing services. This network guarantees quick, straightforward, and convenient testing, making the process virtually hassle-free for both employers and individuals alike.
Simple, Confidential Process in Rand, CO
The process of ordering, taking, and receiving results through hair follicle tests is uncomplicated and confidential, addressing privacy concerns effectively. Residents of Rand, CO, can participate in this trusted testing method, securing swift, discreet, and curtious service through every step.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Rand, CO
Hair follicle testing in Rand, CO, is valued for its competitive pricing and rapid result return. These factors provide excellent value for companies of varied sizes, ensuring that every budget can be accommodated without sacrificing the integrity or reliability of results.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Rand, CO
Hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their precision and swift results. Their ability to accurately detect substance use makes them a superior choice. Testing in Rand, CO, ensures that the insights gathered are both timely and credible, providing a strong basis for decision-making in professional settings.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Rand, CO
Hair follicle testing in Rand, CO, helps businesses adhere to drug-free workplace policies, mitigating legal risks and boosting workplace safety. Employers gain confidence through compliance and assurance, knowing that their employees are subject to comprehensive and trustworthy drug testing protocols.
