Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as a robust method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extended timeline for alcohol and drug history by capturing markers in the fibers of the growing hair strand. When sampled near the scalp, hair can provide up to a three-month period for detecting alcohol and drugs. Hair is straightforward to collect, somewhat challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch piece consisting of about 200 hair strands (approximately the size of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, ideal for both screening and confirmation tests. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of hair is advised. We suggest weighing the sample on a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not available, a comparable amount of body hair may be utilized. When mentioning head hair, we refer only to scalp hair. Body hair refers to any other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four primary stages in the lab processing of a drug test are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the initial integration of a sample into a laboratory’s system. This step includes confirming that the sample was correctly sealed and shipped, allocating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any further data entry not supplied by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening conducts an initial rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. While Screening is an economical method to exclude drug usage for most samples, a positive screen must be confirmed for legal admissibility. Any samples that are potentially positive in Screening require a subsequent confirmation.
If Screening indicates a potential positive, additional hair is retrieved from the initial sample and prepared for Extraction. At this point, drugs are isolated from hair at much lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most complex methodology to execute.
Confirmation of any positive result from Screening is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples presumed positive are cleaned before confirmation as needed. The full lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests", the analysis actually assesses the hair strand and not the underlying hair follicle.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Swink, CO
In Swink, CO, hair follicle testing triumphs over urine tests by offering extended detection times and unmatched reliability. Unlike traditional urine tests, hair analyses provide superior accuracy and durability, making them a preferred choice in robust drug detection frameworks.
Extended Detection Window in Swink, CO
Hair follicle testing in Swink, CO, allows for substantial scrutiny by capturing drug use history up to 90 days prior. This gives employers a comprehensive view of an employee’s or applicant’s substance history, unattainable through shorter-span urine tests.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Swink, CO
In Swink, CO, hair follicle tests significantly lower the risk of tampering. The integrity of the sample is maintained, offering reliable results free from manipulation. This approach ensures that the testing process is secure and credible.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Swink, CO
For quick and easy access, Swink, CO offers the advantage of local and nationwide testing centers. This network facilitates a seamless testing experience, making the process straightforward and hassle-free for everyone involved.
Simple, Confidential Process in Swink, CO
Our process is straightforward and ensures confidentiality, addressing privacy concerns with ease. In Swink, CO, you can order, take, and receive test results effortlessly, guaranteeing a user-friendly and discreet experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Swink, CO
We offer competitive pricing with quick result turnarounds in Swink, CO, delivering excellent value without compromising service quality. This approach supports businesses of all sizes by ensuring budget-friendly yet efficient drug testing solutions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Swink, CO
The swiftness and precision of hair follicle tests are unmatched. In Swink, CO, they provide dependable, prompt results with exceptional accuracy in identifying substance use. This advanced testing method ensures thorough detection, securing reliable outcomes every time.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Swink, CO
Hair follicle testing enhances compliance with employer drug-free policies in Swink, CO. By reducing legal liabilities and promoting workplace safety, businesses can maintain a secure environment and operate within legal frameworks.
