Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The use of hair testing has emerged as a significant method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. By capturing biomarkers within the strands, hair offers a long-term record of substance use as it grows. When clipped near the scalp, hair can reveal alcohol and drug presence for a period of up to about three months. Collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and easy to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, with about 200 hair strands (roughly the thickness of a #2 pencil) near the scalp, will yield 100mg—the optimal amount for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advised. We suggest measuring the sample using a jeweler's scale. If no scalp hair is present, a comparable quantity of body hair may be taken. The term "head hair" strictly refers to scalp hair, whereas "body hair" includes all other types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The drug test result process in the laboratory encompasses four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, a sample is initially processed into the laboratory’s system. This phase ensures the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any necessary data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides a preliminary check for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is an economical means to initially detect drug use in most samples, a court-admissible positive screen must be confirmed. Samples indicating potential positivity in Screening need a subsequent confirmation.
If the Screening stage suggests a positive result, additional hair is withdrawn from the primary specimen and prepped for Extraction. Here, drugs are extracted at much lower concentrations than in other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting the complexity of conducting hair drug screening.
Any positive screening outcome is verified via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All suspected positive samples undergo washing, if needed, before confirmation. The comprehensive laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation in compliance with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite the common term "hair follicle tests," the analysis is performed on the hair strand itself rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Hawaiian Acres, HI
Hair testing in Hawaiian Acres, HI excels in accuracy and reliability, providing a detection period unmatched by urine tests. While urine tests are standard, their detection window and susceptibility to tampering are limitations. In contrast, hair tests offer a comprehensive assessment of drug use.
Extended Detection Window in Hawaiian Acres, HI
With the ability to detect drug use up to 90 days, hair follicle tests give employers in Hawaiian Acres, HI a thorough picture of an individual's substance use history. This extended window is invaluable for understanding long-term behavior and ensuring workplace safety.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Hawaiian Acres, HI
Hair follicle tests are virtually tamper-proof, reducing the risk of sample adulteration. In Hawaiian Acres, HI, this provides reliable and trustworthy results, crucial for employers seeking assurance against any attempts to manipulate drug test outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Hawaiian Acres, HI
Our wide-ranging network of testing centers ensures that Hawaiian Acres, HI residents have quick and easy access to drug testing services. The convenience of nationwide availability treats employers and individuals to a hassle-free experience.
Simple, Confidential Process in Hawaiian Acres, HI
In Hawaiian Acres, HI, the hair follicle testing process is straightforward and respects privacy at each step, from ordering to receiving results. It’s designed to be user-friendly, providing reassurance for those who prioritize confidentiality and usability.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Hawaiian Acres, HI
Offering competitive pricing and speedy turnover, our services in Hawaiian Acres, HI present great value for companies seeking efficient and economical drug testing solutions, ensuring peace of mind without straining budgets.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Hawaiian Acres, HI
In Hawaiian Acres, HI, precision and speed are key. Hair follicle testing offers exceptional accuracy, swiftly detecting substance use with little margin for error. This technology stands as a testament to modern advancements in drug testing, delivering rapid results without sacrificing accuracy.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Hawaiian Acres, HI
Employing hair follicle testing in Hawaiian Acres, HI helps businesses remain compliant with drug-free workplace policies. This method minimizes legal risks and promotes a secure working environment, giving employers peace of mind about maintaining organizational safety standards.