For those in need of comprehensive hair follicle drug testing, Accredited Drug Testing provides full services in Albany, Illinois. Specializing in hair drug and alcohol tests, we operate testing centers across all cities nationwide, ready to handle hair tests. Typically, you need 1.5 to 2 inches of hair from the crown of your head or on your body. Hair tests can be tailored to analyze drugs, alcohol/ETG, or other specific needs.
Over recent years, drug testing has increasingly included hair follicle tests. A growing number of employers, legal courts, and Substance Abuse experts opt for hair drug tests instead of the traditional urine tests. Companies with zero-tolerance drug policies, legal entities, and probation officers utilize hair tests. The primary advantage is its extended drug use detection period, up to 90 days, observed during collection, making it extremely difficult to manipulate. Yet a urine test remains preferable for detecting drug use within the last 5 days.
* You must register by phone or online to receive your donor pass/registration prior to proceeding to the testing center. You must bring a valid government issued ID along with the registration/barcode number which was sent to you by email.
When you're searching for hair drug testing near me or hair drug testing locations, we provide a simple and convenient process to find a drug and alcohol testing location near you that is certified to provide all of your drug and alcohol testing needs.
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a lengthy record of alcohol and drugs due to biomarkers being trapped within the hair's fibrous structure. Sampling hair near the scalp offers a detection window of up to nearly 3 months for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and simple to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, including approximately 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) from the scalp, yields 100mg, the optimal amount for analysis and confirmation. For enhancements like EtG or tests exceeding 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advised. It's suggested to weigh the specimen using a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair cannot be obtained, a comparable volume of body hair may be used. "Head hair" solely refers to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The process of laboratory analysis for drug testing includes four key phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial phase of entering a sample into the lab system. It checks that the sample seal and shipment were intact, assigns a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and completes any necessary data input absent from electronic custody records.
Screening is a preliminary evaluation for drug presence. Though it offers a cost-efficient way to dismiss drug use in many cases, a positive result requires confirmation for legal validity. Presumptively positive results in Screening demand secondary validation.
In instances of a presumptive positive result in Screening, additional hair is prepared for Extraction from the collected sample. Here, drugs are derived from hair at lower concentrations than other tests (e.g., urine or oral fluid), underscoring the complexity of performing hair drug analysis.
Confirmation for positive screening outcomes is achieved through techniques such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples are washed prior to confirmation if necessary. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes evaluation under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Albany, IL
Hair follicle testing offers a superior alternative to the traditional urine test in Albany, IL. Its capability to detect a wider range of substances over an extended timeframe ensures higher reliability and accuracy.
When contrasting with urine tests, hair tests provide comprehensive data, offering insights into past drug use.
Extended Detection Window in Albany, IL
In Albany, IL, hair follicle testing is celebrated for its long detection window. Capable of identifying drug usage up to 90 days prior, it gives employers a detailed view of an individual's substance history.
This extended detection capability makes hair tests a preferred choice for employers seeking detailed usage insights.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Albany, IL
The security of hair follicle tests in Albany, IL lies in their resistance to tampering. This testing method minimizes the risk of sample adulteration, assuring stakeholders of the authenticity of results.
By providing consistent and reliable results, hair testing safeguards against sample manipulation, making it a trustworthy method.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Albany, IL
The ease of access to our testing centers in Albany, IL and nationwide offers unparalleled convenience. Ensuring quick and effortless access to our services, our centers streamline the testing process.
With widespread availability, individuals and companies benefit from hassle-free drug testing experiences.
Simple, Confidential Process in Albany, IL
Our hair follicle testing process in Albany, IL is streamlined and protects confidentiality throughout. From ordering to testing and receiving results, every step is designed for ease and discretion.
Addressing privacy and convenience, the process assures users of a stress-free experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Albany, IL
Our competitive pricing and rapid turnaround offer excellent value in Albany, IL. Companies of all sizes benefit from our cost-effective structures and swift service.
By balancing price with quick service, we ensure clients receive exceptional value and assurance.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Albany, IL
Hair follicle drug tests deliver speedy, precise outcomes, proving crucial in Albany, IL, where accuracy is key. These tests provide a high level of reliability in detecting substance misuse compared to alternative methods.
When quick and accurate detection is important, hair testing stands out for its ability to precisely identify the presence of substances.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Albany, IL
Albany, IL employers benefit from hair testing by ensuring compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This method lessens legal risks and elevates workplace safety, providing peace of mind.
Hair tests help in maintaining a secure environment and confirming adherence to regulatory requirements.
