Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as a vital method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a prolonged timeline of alcohol and drug intake by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the emerging hair strand. When taken near the scalp, hair can reveal up to around a 3-month detection timeframe for alcohol and other substances. Hair collection is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, encompassing roughly 200 strands of hair (approximately the width of a #2 pencil) located nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg, which is ideal for both initial screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests beyond 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is advised. We suggest determining the weight of the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not available, a similar amount of body hair may be gathered. References to head hair specifically pertain to scalp hair only. Body hair encompasses all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary phases in the lab processing of a drug test outcome involve Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the preliminary processing of a sample into a laboratory’s workflow. This process verifies that the sample was securely sealed and correctly shipped, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any additional data input not part of an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening represents an initial rapid assessment for drugs of concern. While Screening is a cost-efficient means of dismissing drug usage among most samples, a positive result requires verification to satisfy courtroom standards. Any samples testing presumptively positive in Screening need a secondary verification.
Should a sample test presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial specimen in preparation for Extraction. At this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at a significantly lower concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), contributing to the complexity of hair drug testing.
Confirmation of any preliminary positive result is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Before confirmation, all presumptive positive samples are cleansed as necessary. The comprehensive lab process from Accessioning through to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and the accreditation in line with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Even though sometimes called "hair follicle tests", the examination is conducted on the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Superior Accuracy
In Virginia, ID, hair follicle drug testing proves a superior choice over traditional urine tests. By capturing a larger detection window, this method ensures a more comprehensive and accurate analysis of substance use history.
Reduced Cheating
The very design of hair testing limits the possibility of tampering, providing employers and officials with a reliable tool for enforcing drug-free environments, especially where zero-tolerance policies are in place.
Long-Term Analysis
Employers in Virginia, ID benefit from the extensive detection range of hair follicle testing, spanning up to 90 days. This holistic view of an employee's substance use over months offers invaluable insights into potential risks and behaviors.
Comprehensive Assessment
Rather than just a snapshot, hair testing provides a full timeline of substance consumption, aiding in making informed hiring and retention decisions.
Secure Results
Employers in Virginia, ID can trust hair follicle tests to deliver tamper-resistant results. The methodology used makes it nearly impossible to alter samples, ensuring authenticity and reliability.
Enhanced Confidence
This testing method significantly reduces concerns about sample adulteration, granting peace of mind in the integrity of the testing process.
Nationwide Presence
Navigating the testing process in Virginia, ID is simplified by our expansive network of testing centers. Accessibility across all cities allows quick and convenient testing no matter the location.
Localized Access
With centers in strategic locales, individuals and businesses enjoy hassle-free and timely services, making the testing process seamless.
Effortless Process
In Virginia, ID, our hair follicle testing process ensures simplicity and confidentiality. From ordering the test to obtaining results, each step is designed for ease and privacy.
Privacy Guaranteed
Our straightforward approach reassures individuals about the handling of sensitive information, maintaining confidentiality throughout the entire testing procedure.
Economic Advantage
Our pricing structures in Virginia, ID are built to offer competitive yet cost-effective solutions. We ensure that businesses of all sizes can afford comprehensive testing services without compromise.
Speedy Turnaround
The efficient processes we employ guarantee quick results, providing crucial information when needed most, thus offering great value and assurance.
Fast Detection
In Virginia, ID, the precision of hair follicle drug testing is unmatched. This method ensures swift and accurate identification of substance use, providing quick and dependable results that businesses can trust.
High Accuracy
Hair tests draw upon a longer detection span, enabling a deeper insight into an individual's drug use patterns. This high level of accuracy plays a critical role in maintaining workplace integrity and safety.
Regulatory Assurance
Adopting hair follicle testing in Virginia, ID aligns with strict workplace cleaner protocols. This ensures compliance, minimizes legal repercussions, and promotes a safe working environment.
Enhanced Safety
Employers are better protected against potential liabilities, securing peace of mind with a drug-free workplace standard.
