Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair examinations are increasingly recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By capturing biomarkers within the hair's growing fibers, hair offers an extended retrospective of alcohol and drug history. Samples taken near the scalp can provide detection periods of up to around three months for both alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient for transport.
A sample of 1.5-inches roughly consisting of 200 hair strands (approximately the diameter of a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg, which is ideal for testing and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of hair is suggested. It's advisable to weigh the sample using a jeweler's scale. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent quantity of body hair is acceptable. Head hair specifically refers to scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses all other types (such as facial or axillary hair).
Process Overview
There are four primary steps in lab processing for drug test results: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the stage where a sample is initially integrated into the lab's system. This step ensures the sample's seal and shipment conformed to protocols and includes assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), as well as finalizing any additional data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody.
Screening is a preliminary and rapid drug abuse check. Although cost-effective for excluding drug use in most samples, positive results in Screening must undergo confirmation to be court-valid. Samples with presumptive positive results in Screening necessitate further confirmation.
For samples with presumptive positives in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the same specimen for the Extraction step. Drugs are extracted at much lower concentrations from hair compared to other methods (like urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug analysis the most complex methodology.
Positive screening results are confirmed through techniques like GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing as needed before confirmation. This entire laboratory procedure, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests", the testing actually involves the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Vineland, CO: When evaluating hair against urine testing, hair follicle tests prevail due to their extended detection window and enhanced accuracy. Unlike urine tests, hair screenings provide a thorough analysis of substance history spanning months.
This method excels in reliability and detail, offering consistent results that traditional urine tests might miss. Inconsistent attempts to alter samples are effectively countered, making hair testing superior for comprehensive drug use assessment.
Extended Detection Window in Vineland, CO: Hair follicle testing offers employers a significant advantage with its capability to detect drug use over a prolonged period, typically up to 90 days. This extended window facilitates an exhaustive view of an individual's substance use history.
Employers benefit from deep insights into potential or current employee habits, ensuring informed decisions in hiring or retention processes. The broad detection scope highlights long-term patterns, aiding in maintaining a drug-free workplace.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Vineland, CO: Hair follicle testing drastically reduces the risk of sample tampering, providing conclusive and dependable results. The method's stringent collection and analysis processes are designed to prevent adulteration.
With its observed collection and laboratory controls, hair testing offers a resilient barrier against manipulation. This ensures peace of mind for employers by delivering trustworthy results and reinforcing confidence in the integrity of the testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Vineland, CO: Our broad network of testing centers guarantees easy access to services, ensuring a smooth and rapid testing experience for all clients, regardless of location.
With local accessibility as our priority, individuals and companies benefit from hassle-free testing at any of our nationwide or local facilities. This widespread reach emphasizes our commitment to convenience, offering prompt and effective solutions.
Simple, Confidential Process in Vineland, CO: Our testing procedure ensures a straightforward and discreet experience from ordering to result delivery, safeguarding client privacy and simplifying the entire process.
We focus on user-friendly interactions, allowing stress-free scheduling and collection. The commitment to confidentiality and ease of use is paramount, making sure all involved enjoy a comfortable and secure service experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Vineland, CO: We offer competitive pricing with swift result delivery, providing exceptional value for businesses of all sizes looking to implement reliable drug testing options.
Our efficient processes guarantee that results are shared quickly, helping organizations make informed decisions without delay. This commitment to affordability and promptness ensures great service without financial strain.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Vineland, CO: Hair follicle drug testing stands out with its swift and precise identification of substances. This advanced method ensures superior accuracy, promptly detecting a wide array of drug use while maintaining reliability.
The meticulous analysis process guarantees high precision in results, giving both employers and individuals confidence in the testing process. Hair testing leads to quick and comprehensive insights into substance history, contributing to safer environments.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Vineland, CO: Utilizing hair follicle tests upholds compliance with workplace drug policies and boosts safety. Employers minimize legal risks and create safer environments by adopting this reliable testing method.
Hair testing enhances peace of mind through assured adherence to zero-tolerance frameworks. Comprehensive detection capabilities play a major role in protecting organizational interests and maintaining a drug-free setting for all personnel.
