Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Blue Island, IL

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis is recognized as a significant method for identifying alcohol and drug use. Strands of hair capture biomarkers within their fibers, offering a lengthy historical record of substance use. By collecting hair near the scalp, one can achieve a detection period of approximately three months for alcohol and drugs. Hair is easy to gather, moderately resistant to tampering, and straightforward to transport.

An optimal 1.5-inch hair sample, consisting of around 200 strands (roughly the thickness of a #2 pencil) from near the scalp, will yield 100mg, ideal for both initial screening and subsequent confirmation. For tests including EtG, additional panels, or those exceeding 10, a sample weight of 150mg is advisable. Using a jeweler’s scale is suggested for measuring the specimen. If scalp hair collection is not feasible, an equivalent volume of body hair can be used. "Head hair" refers specifically to scalp hair, while "body hair" denotes other types, such as facial or axillary hair.

Process Overview

The drug test processing sequence in the laboratory involves four critical steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

During Accessioning, the sample undergoes initial processing into the laboratory’s system. This step verifies proper sealing and shipment, assigns the sample a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and completes any outstanding data entry not addressed by an electronic chain of custody.

Screening serves as an initial assessment for abuse substances. While cost-effective in eliminating the likelihood of drug usage in most samples, any positives detected in Screening require confirmation for legal admissibility. Samples testing presumptively positive in Screening demand further confirmation.

If the Screening stage indicates a positive result, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for use in Extraction. This phase involves retrieving drugs from the hair at a far lower concentration than that used in other testing methods, such as urine or oral fluid, making hair drug screening the most challenging methodology.

Any positive results from Screening undergo Confirmation via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Necessity dictates that presumptive positive samples be washed before confirmation. The entire process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, adheres to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair tests detect drug use for as long as 90 days, unlike urine tests with shorter periods.
• Resistance to falsification: Due to its design, a hair drug test is tough to manipulate, enhancing accuracy.
• Pattern tracing: Provides a usage pattern over a substantial duration, rather than simply recent use.

Limitations:

• Inability to detect immediate use: Drugs require around 5-7 days to become detectable in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug testing typically incurs higher costs than other methods.
• Result variations: Elements such as hair color and personal hair growth differences might influence metabolite concentration within hair.

Note: Although frequently called "hair follicle tests," the actual analysis involves the hair strand itself, not the sub-scalp follicle.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

In the context of Blue Island, IL, hair testing is superior to urine tests for several reasons. Hair analyses offer a broader detection window compared to urine tests, thus providing a more comprehensive understanding of an individual's drug history. Furthermore, the precision of hair testing eclipses that of traditional urine methods, resulting in more credible results.
These advantages make hair testing particularly beneficial for workplaces seeking reliable drug screening options.

Extended Detection Window

Hair follicle testing boasts an extended detection window, reaching up to 90 days, offering a thorough overview of substance usage. This longer assessment period allows employers in Blue Island, IL to observe an accurate history of usage, beyond mere recent consumption.
Such a comprehensive approach is invaluable in discerning long-term drug habits that might otherwise go unnoticed with traditional testing methods.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

One of the standout features of hair follicle testing in Blue Island, IL is its resistance to adulteration. Unlike other testing methods, hair tests are extremely difficult to tamper with, thus ensuring the authenticity of the sampled data.
This inherent robustness makes hair follicle testing a trusted choice for those seeking uncontaminated and unequivocal results in substance testing.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

With widespread testing facilities, including local spots in Blue Island, IL, accessing hair follicle drug testing services has never been more convenient. Our nationwide presence ensures a streamlined process that reduces effort and time for scheduling tests.
Clients can enjoy hassle-free access to testing centers, making the experience smooth for both companies and individuals alike.

Simple, Confidential Process

Engaging in hair follicle testing in Blue Island, IL is made easy with a straightforward and confidential procedure. The process from ordering to receiving results is seamless, ensuring client privacy is maintained throughout.
This simplicity and confidentiality cater to those who prioritize ease of use and assurance of their personal data, making hair testing an appealing choice for many.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Competitive pricing and fast turnaround times define the hair follicle testing services in Blue Island, IL. Companies, regardless of size, are offered excellent value, reducing expenses while not compromising on quality.
This combination of affordability and efficiency ensures that organizations can maintain rigorous drug testing standards without financial strain.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Hair follicle testing in Blue Island, IL is renowned for its rapidity and precision. The process ensures that drug use is accurately detected, minimizing false negatives or positives, and providing reliable data for decision-making.
Results from hair testing are not only swift but are also dependable, offering peace of mind to employers and individuals. The accuracy of these tests is unparalleled, making them an excellent choice for substance use verification.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Employers in Blue Island, IL enjoy enhanced compliance assurance through hair follicle testing, aligning with drug-free workplace policies. This method aids in significantly diminishing legal risks and fosters an environment of safety within the workplace.
By choosing hair testing, organizations not only meet regulatory standards but also contribute to the creation of a more secure and productive work setting.

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