Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as a robust method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. The hair captures a prolonged history of alcohol and drug intake by ensnaring biomarkers within the fibers of the growing strand. When gathered near the scalp, hair can offer an approximately 3-month detection period for alcohol and drug use. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and easy to transport.
A 1.5-inch hair sample of roughly 200 strands (similar to the size of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, the optimal specimen for screening and confirmation. For EtG, supplementary tests, and/or analyses beyond 10 panels, it’s advisable to have 150mg of the sample. We suggest measuring the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not available, a comparable quantity of body hair can be collected. When speaking of head hair, it specifically means scalp hair. Body hair denotes all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four primary steps in the laboratory processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the preliminary processing of a sample into a lab's system. This process verifies the sample’s seal and proper shipment, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any additional data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves an initial rapid assessment for substances of abuse. While Screening is a cost-efficient method to exclude drug usage in the bulk of samples, a positive screen must be confirmed for legal admissibility. All presumptive positive samples in Screening necessitate a further confirmation.
If a sample is marked presumptively positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and readied for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are obtained from hair at a significantly lower concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug testing is the most challenging method to execute.
Confirmation of any screening positive result is carried out via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive specimens undergo a wash before confirmation as necessary. The complete laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is examined under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests", the assessment evaluates the hair strand, not the follicle under the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Dunlap, IL
Hair follicle tests excel over urine tests with their superior detection accuracy and longer detection windows. While traditional urine tests offer limited timeframes, hair testing reveals a clearer, more extensive substance use history.
Employers prefer hair tests for their robustness and less susceptibility to tampering, elevating them above standard urine methods, particularly for long-term detection.
Extended Detection Window in Dunlap, IL
Hair follicle testing provides a comprehensive view of an individual's substance history, covering up to 90 days. This extended detection period is invaluable for employers wishing to gain insights into long-term behaviors.
Through such a lengthy window, hair testing surpasses other methods in providing a thorough evaluation of an applicant's or employee's use over time.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Dunlap, IL
Hair follicle tests offer a level of reliability that is hard to match, significantly reducing the chances of sample adulteration. This mode of testing ensures results that are both reliable and unquestionable.
The integrity of hair testing is maintained through processes that safeguard against tampering, making it a trustworthy choice for definitive drug testing.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Dunlap, IL
With nationwide testing centers, our services promise convenience and ease, providing quick access to necessary testing without hassle.
In Dunlap, IL, local availability means assessments are just around the corner, ready when you need them.
Simple, Confidential Process in Dunlap, IL
The process for ordering, undergoing, and obtaining results from hair follicle tests is designed for simplicity and confidentiality, addressing any privacy concerns.
With a straightforward procedure in place, users find reassurance in a seamless experience that ensures privacy without sacrificing efficiency.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Dunlap, IL
Competitive pricing structures are coupled with fast turnaround times, offering excellent value without compromise.
For companies of all sizes, this balance of affordability and speed provides peace of mind, knowing that quality outcomes are guaranteed without breaking the bank.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Dunlap, IL
The precision of hair follicle drug tests is unmatched, providing highly reliable results efficiently. These tests are designed to swiftly detect traces of substance use, giving you peace of mind.
The advanced nature of hair testing ensures results that are not only fast but dependable, making it the go-to choice for those seeking accuracy in a timely manner.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Dunlap, IL
Through hair follicle testing, businesses can ensure adherence to drug-free workplace policies, minimizing legal risks while enhancing safety.
Employers gain peace of mind with reliable screening methods in place, supporting a safe and compliant workplace atmosphere.
