Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has become recognized as a robust instrument for identifying substance and alcohol use. Hair retains a lasting record of alcohol and drug usage by capturing biomarkers within the strands of growing hair. When collected near the scalp, hair can offer up to around a 3-month detection timeframe for alcohol and substances. Hair is straightforward to gather, relatively tamper-resistant, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch sample comprising roughly 200 hair strands (similar to the dimensions of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, the optimal sample for assessment and verification. For EtG, extended panels, and/or assessments exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is suggested. We endorse measuring the sample on a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair be unavailable, a comparable amount of body hair can be collected. In reference to head hair, we mean scalp hair specifically. Body hair signifies all other hair types (facial hair, axillary hair, etc.).
Process Overview
The four primary stages involved in the laboratory procedure of a drug test result are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial entry of a sample into the laboratory’s system. This step includes ensuring the sample was sealed and dispatched correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and performing any supplementary data entry missing from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening consists of an initial rapid assessment for substances of abuse. Though Screening is an economical approach to exclude drug consumption in most samples, any positive screen must be validated to be court-admissible. Samples that are presumptively positive in Screening demand additional confirmation.
Should a sample be presumptively positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is obtained from the original sample and prepped for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug testing the most challenging methodology to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples presumptively positive undergo washing prior to confirmation where necessary. The entire lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the certification to ISO/IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though commonly called "hair follicle tests", the examination is conducted on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Hair Testing Advantage in Toponas, CO
Hair follicle testing offers distinct benefits compared to traditional urine tests. It provides a superior detection rate and is more reliable. This advanced method results in more accurate findings, aiding Toponas employers in maintaining a drug-free workplace.
Extended Detection Window in Toponas, CO
With the ability to reveal drug usage for up to 90 days, hair follicle tests offer an extensive detection period. This comprehensive insight into an individual's drug history allows employers in Toponas to make well-informed decisions about their workforce.
Secure Testing Methods in Toponas, CO
Hair follicle tests greatly minimize the possibility of sample tampering. By ensuring the authenticity of the results, this method stands out for its dependability, offering trustworthy data when assessing drug use in Toponas.
Convenient Testing Centers in Toponas, CO
Our comprehensive network of testing locations ensures convenient access to drug testing services. Whether local or nationwide, Toponas residents can experience seamless and hassle-free testing procedures.
Easy and Confidential Process in Toponas, CO
The hair follicle testing procedure is straightforward and confidential. This guarantees privacy and a smooth process for ordering tests, sample collection, and receiving results, addressing all concerns about ease of use and discretion.
Cost-effective and Swift Solutions in Toponas, CO
Our competitive pricing alongside rapid turnaround times makes hair follicle testing an attractive option. This offers substantial value for businesses of all sizes in Toponas, ensuring peace of mind along with financial feasibility.
Precision and Efficiency in Toponas, CO
Hair follicle drug testing is renowned for its precision and quick results. This method offers high accuracy levels in identifying substance use. Toponas residents can rely on hair testing for fast and reliable outcomes that ensure honest evaluations of drug usage.
Assured Compliance for Employers in Toponas, CO
Incorporating hair follicle testing into workplace policies guarantees compliance with drug-free environments. This approach reduces legal risks and enhances safety, providing employers in Toponas with confidence and tranquility.