Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective method for identifying alcohol and drug use. Hair strands record a history of substance use by capturing biomarkers within the hair’s fibers. When hair samples are collected near the scalp, they offer a detection timeframe of up to roughly 90 days for alcohol and other substances. Hair collection is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch section of roughly 200 hair strands, equivalent to a #2 pencil's thickness, nearest to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, which is an ideal amount for analysis and verification. For EtG, additional tests, or tests beyond 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. It is best to weigh the hair using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn’t available, an equivalent volume of body hair can be used. When discussing head hair, it specifically means scalp hair. The term body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Summary
Laboratory drug testing includes four core stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the initial sample handling in the lab's system. This step confirms that the sample is sealed and sent correctly, assigns it a unique Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and finalizes any additional data needed if not provided by an e-chain of custody.
Screening is a preliminary assessment for substances of abuse. Although Screening is economical for eliminating drug use in most samples, a positive result must be verified to be legally valid. Samples showing presumptive positives in Screening need further confirmation.
Should a sample test positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction phase. In this phase, substances are extracted from hair at a much lower concentration than with other techniques, such as those using urine or oral fluids, thus making hair analysis challenging.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS technology. All samples with presumptive positives are cleansed as required before confirmation. The entire laboratory operation, from Accessioning to Confirmation, follows reviews according to the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Pros of Hair Drug Tests:
Constraints:
Note: Although called "hair follicle tests", what is actually assessed is the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Buckingham, IL
Hair testing offers a superior detection period, capturing substance use traces up to 90 days. This far surpasses urine tests, which typically highlight recent use. For employers in Buckingham, IL, this means a deeper, more reliable look into an individual's drug use history, enhancing the accuracy of assessments.
Extended Detection Window in Buckingham, IL
With an ability to trace drug use for up to 90 days, hair follicle tests provide a thorough overview of an individual's substance history. This extended detection window is invaluable for Buckingham, IL employers seeking a detailed understanding of an applicant's or employee's drug use background, aiding in informed decision-making.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Buckingham, IL
Hair follicle tests offer a significant advantage in reliability by minimizing the risk of sample tampering. This method ensures results are trustworthy and difficult to adulterate, thus delivering peace of mind to organizations throughout Buckingham, IL seeking accurate and uncompromised testing outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations in Buckingham, IL
Our widespread network of testing centers assures quick and hassle-free access to services. Whether needing local testing in Buckingham, IL or other locations, our comprehensive presence guarantees ease and convenience for individuals and businesses nationwide.
Simple, Confidential Process in Buckingham, IL
Our straightforward and private testing procedure in Buckingham, IL allows for easy ordering, testing, and receiving of results. We prioritize confidentiality and simplicity, addressing users' privacy concerns and ensuring a seamless experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Buckingham, IL
We offer competitive pricing alongside quick turnaround times, providing exceptional value. This makes our services accessible to companies of varied sizes, ensuring they receive timely and cost-effective testing solutions in Buckingham, IL.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Buckingham, IL
The precision of hair follicle drug tests ensures high accuracy in detecting substance use. Known for delivering swift results, this method efficiently identifies a wide range of substances, providing Buckingham, IL employers with confidence and timely data in their hiring and compliance processes.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Buckingham, IL
Implementing hair follicle testing ensures adherence to workplace drug-free regulations, reducing legal liabilities and promoting safety. Employers in Buckingham, IL benefit from this proactive measure, which safeguards their workforce and enhances operational compliance.
