Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective approach for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of alcohol and drug usage by embedding biomarkers within the hair strand's fibers as they grow. When collected near the scalp, hair can offer a detection window of approximately 3 months for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, less prone to tampering, and easy to transport.
A 1.5-inch sample consisting of about 200 strands of hair (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the ideal sample size for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. We suggest weighing the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is unavailable, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be gathered. In reference to head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair includes all other hair types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The four primary steps in laboratory processing of drug test results are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning encompasses the initial integration of a sample into a lab’s system. This process entails verifying that the sample was appropriately sealed and shipped, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any other data entry omitted by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves an initial rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. Though cost-effective for excluding drug use in most samples, a positive screen necessitates confirmation for legal admissibility. Samples that are provisionally positive in Screening require subsequent confirmation.
If a sample yields a tentative positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for Extraction. This stage involves extracting drugs from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), underscoring the complexity of performing hair drug screening.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is achieved via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All presumed positive samples undergo washing prior to confirmation if needed. The entire laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is subject to review under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While often termed "hair follicle tests", the assessment analyzes the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Southwood Acres, CT
Comparing hair tests to traditional urine assessments reveals superior accuracy and reliability. Hair tests offer a longer detection range and are tougher to manipulate, making them a trusted choice for detecting drug use.
Extended Detection Window in Southwood Acres, CT
Hair follicle testing's long detection window, extending up to 90 days, allows employers to gain a comprehensive view of an individual's substance usage history, making it an invaluable tool for informed decision-making.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Southwood Acres, CT
Hair follicle tests reduce the chance of sample tampering, delivering trustworthy and uncontested outcomes. This added security makes hair tests a preferred option for dependable drug screening.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Southwood Acres, CT
Our nationwide testing centers offer a seamless and accessible experience, facilitating easy access to drug testing services no matter your location.
Simple, Confidential Process in Southwood Acres, CT
Our testing process is uncomplicated and discreet, addressing privacy concerns while ensuring an easy and clear path from ordering to receiving results.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Southwood Acres, CT
We offer competitive pricing and quick result delivery, providing significant value and solace for businesses of all sizes, ensuring efficient service and budget-friendly options.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Southwood Acres, CT
Hair follicle drug tests deliver precise, speedy results, offering unmatched accuracy in identifying substance use. This method excels in delivering fast and reliable insights, helping stakeholders make informed decisions promptly.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Southwood Acres, CT
Employers benefit greatly from hair follicle testing, ensuring adherence to drug-free policies, minimizing legal risks, and enhancing workplace security.
