Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analyses have emerged as an effective method for recognizing drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a comprehensive history of alcohol and drug use by embedding biomarkers within the structure of the hair as it grows. When taken near the scalp, hair can provide an alcohol and drug detection timeline of up to roughly 90 days. Hair is straightforward to collect, somewhat resistant to tampering, and convenient to send.
A 1.5-inch hair specimen consisting of approximately 200 strands (equivalent to a #2 pencil in diameter) near the scalp furnishes 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for both screening and validation. For EtG, additional analyses, and tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the specimen. If scalp hair isn't available, an equal portion of body hair can be used. References to head hair pertain solely to scalp hair. Body hair refers to other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary stages in the lab processing of a drug test are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning includes the initial integration of a sample into a lab’s protocol. This stage ensures the sample was securely packaged and delivered, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and concludes any supplementary data input absent from the electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a preliminary assessment for substances of abuse. Although Screening is an economical way to exclude drug use in most samples, a verified result requires confirmation to be valid in judicial settings. Samples that test positive during Screening need further verification.
When a sample tests positive at the Screening phase, extra hair is taken from the existing sample and readied for Extraction. During this stage, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower levels compared to other methods (like urine or oral fluids), demonstrating why hair drug screening is the most challenging to execute.
Verification of a positive screening outcome is completed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All samples flagged as positive undergo a cleansing process before confirmation if necessary. The comprehensive lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and complies with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed "hair follicle tests", these tests analyze the actual hair and not the follicle beneath the skin.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Spreckelsville, HI
Hair testing holds a significant edge over traditional urine tests in terms of accuracy and detection period. While urine tests might only detect recent use, hair tests provide a comprehensive historical view. Their superior reliability makes them a preferred choice for those needing meticulous drug use records.
Extended Detection Window in Spreckelsville, HI
The extended detection period of hair follicle testing, up to 90 days, enables employers to gain insights into a person’s longer-term substance use. This longer window is particularly beneficial for those wanting a thorough understanding of an individual’s drug-related history, enhancing decision-making processes.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Spreckelsville, HI
Hair follicle testing is a robust method that significantly cuts down the chances of sample tampering or adulteration. This ensures that the results remain trustworthy and undisputed, bolstering confidence in the reliability and objectivity of the testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Spreckelsville, HI
Accredited Drug Testing offers the convenience of numerous testing centers Nationwide, ensuring quick and trouble-free access wherever you are. In Spreckelsville, HI, our centers provide easy local access, making testing procedures smooth and efficient for everyone.
Simple, Confidential Process in Spreckelsville, HI
The process of ordering, undertaking, and receiving results from hair follicle drug tests is straightforward and confidential. This helps address concerns regarding privacy while ensuring the ease with which users can navigate the various steps, from initiation to obtaining results.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Spreckelsville, HI
Our competitive pricing and quick turnaround times make hair follicle testing financially viable for companies of varying sizes. By delivering excellent value and ensuring fast results, businesses can make timely, informed decisions without financial strain.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Spreckelsville, HI
Hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their accuracy and speed. They offer a precise measurement of substance use, identifying drugs within a longer time frame. This ensures that results obtained are not only quick but also highly reliable, giving peace of mind to employers and individuals alike.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Spreckelsville, HI
Employers using hair follicle testing enforce drug-free workplace policies, thereby lowering legal and safety risks. This enhances workplace environments and provides reassurance that all measures for compliance and employee well-being have been taken conscientiously.
