Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is acknowledged as a highly effective approach for identifying the use of drugs and alcohol. Hair serves as a repository for a long-term record of alcohol and other drug usage by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. When hair samples are taken close to the scalp, it can offer a detection period of up to 3 months for alcohol and other drugs. Hair sampling is easy to conduct, challenging to falsify, and simple to transport.
Gathering a 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 hair strands (approximately the size of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp produces about 100mg of hair, which is the benchmark sample size for both screening and validation. For EtG tests, additional analyses, and/or tests over 10 panels, around 150mg of the sample is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale is recommended for measuring the sample’s weight. In cases where scalp hair cannot be taken, a similar amount of body hair can be used as a substitute. When mentioning head hair, it exclusively relates to scalp hair. In contrast, body hair includes any other types of hair (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The principal steps in the lab procedure for processing a drug test outcome are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning denotes the preliminary processing of a sample within a laboratory’s framework. This process checks that the sample was correctly sealed and transported, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any further data entry that an electronic chain of custody system doesn’t cover.
Screening includes an initial swift analysis for commonly abused drugs. Though Screening is an economical way to exclude drug use in most samples, positive screening results must be substantiated to hold up in court. Samples indicating a presumptive positive at this stage need a follow-up confirmation.
In cases where a sample is presumptive positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and prepped for Extraction. During this stage, substances are extracted from hair at lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), contributing to the complexity of hair drug screening.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods are used to confirm any positive preliminary screening results. As needed, all samples identified as presumptive positives are cleansed before confirmation. The complete lab protocol from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes scrutiny under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair certification and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis itself targets the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Simla, CO
Hair follicle tests offer superior accuracy when detecting substance use compared to urine tests. The precision and reliability of hair testing make it a preferred method for many employers and institutions in Simla, CO.
With a longer detection period and less vulnerability to tampering, hair tests provide an unmatched level of assurance. They ensure a comprehensive view of an individual's substance history, unlike the limited scope of urine tests.
Extended Detection Window in Simla, CO
One of the notable advantages of hair follicle testing is its ability to trace drug use for up to 90 days. This extended detection window gives employers in Simla, CO, a more comprehensive understanding of a candidate's substance history.
Such insight is valuable in maintaining workplace safety and ensuring adherence to drug-free policies. The prolonged duration of hair tests contrasts sharply with the narrow detection period offered by other methods like urine tests.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Simla, CO
Hair follicle drug tests are highly resistant to tampering, providing unparalleled reliability in Simla, CO. The test's design makes it difficult to alter or adulterate the samples, ensuring the accuracy of the results.
Employers and legal entities can trust the integrity of hair tests, as the methodology effectively prevents dishonest attempts to manipulate outcomes. This characteristic reinforces the test's credibility and utility in various scenarios.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Simla, CO
Accredited Drug Testing offers testing services across the nation, including locations right in Simla, CO. This extensive network ensures quick and efficient access to hair follicle drug testing.
Customers can find a testing center nearby, making the process of getting tested convenient and hassle-free. The local availability of services means individuals and companies can undertake testing with minimal disruption to their schedules.
Simple, Confidential Process in Simla, CO
The process for hair follicle testing in Simla, CO, is straightforward and respects client confidentiality. From ordering the test to receiving the results, steps are designed to be simple and secure.
Privacy is a top priority, ensuring that all information is handled with discretion. This commitment to confidentiality, combined with ease of access, makes the testing experience seamless for all involved.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Simla, CO
Accredited Drug Testing delivers cost-effective hair follicle testing solutions in Simla, CO. Our competitive pricing structures cater to businesses of all sizes, ensuring excellent value.
The quick turnaround of test results enhances the overall experience, allowing companies to make informed decisions swiftly. This balance of affordability and efficiency provides peace of mind to all clients.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Simla, CO
Hair follicle drug testing offers a real edge with its speed and precision. In Simla, CO, these tests provide high accuracy in identifying substance use, giving both employers and individuals confidence in the results.
The process is swift, typically delivering outcomes faster than other methods. This ensures timely decision-making based on precise data, enhancing overall trust in the testing process.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Simla, CO
Utilizing hair follicle tests helps employers in Simla, CO, adhere to drug-free workplace regulations. These tests minimize legal risks by providing a robust mechanism for screening employees.
Ensuring policy compliance through reliable testing fosters a safer work environment, reducing the potential for drug-related incidents. The peace of mind afforded by these tests is invaluable for both employers and employees alike.
