Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as an effective method for detecting misuse of drugs and alcohol. Hair archives a prolonged history of alcohol and narcotics by embedding biomarkers within the fiber of the maturing hair strand. When procured near the scalp, hair provides a prospective detection timespan of up to three months for alcohol and drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, minimally tamperable, and easy to dispatch.
A 1.5-inch section comprising roughly 200 hair strands close to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panel examinations over 10, a total of 150mg is suggested. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale is advised for weighing the sample. If head hair is unavailable, a comparable amount of body hair may be collected. When addressing head hair, we are specifically referring to scalp hair. Body hair includes any other hair type (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processes a drug test result through Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary step of introducing a sample into the lab’s system. This includes ensuring the sample's proper sealing and shipping, the assignment of a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing other data entries not covered by an electronic custody chain.
Screening executes a quick initial analysis for drug misuse. Although Screening is an economical method for excluding drug use in most samples, any positive result must be corroborated to be court-admissible. Samples presumed positive in Screening necessitate a secondary confirmation.
When a sample is flagged as presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the primary specimen and prepped for Extraction. This is where drugs are isolated from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methodologies (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug testing the most challenging method to execute.
Confirmation for any positive Screening result is executed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples presumed positive are subject to a wash before confirmation if required. The complete laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is supervised under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and adheres to the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly termed as "hair follicle tests", these tests actually examine the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in East Hazel Crest, IL
Hair follicle testing offers unparalleled detection accuracy compared to traditional urine tests. This method captures a broader history of substance use, providing a more reliable assessment. In East Hazel Crest, IL, the hair test demonstrates superior capabilities in identifying long-term drug use, making it a preferred choice for many employers and professionals.
Extended Detection Window in East Hazel Crest, IL
Hair follicle testing allows for the detection of drugs over a significantly extended period—up to 90 days. This gives employers in East Hazel Crest, IL, a comprehensive view of an applicant or employee’s drug history. This longer window ensures a thorough assessment of substance use, contributing to informed hiring decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in East Hazel Crest, IL
Hair follicle tests are intrinsically resistant to tampering, providing accurate and trustworthy results. The methodology reduces the risk of sample adulteration, ensuring that results are dependable. In East Hazel Crest, IL, the integrity of drug testing processes is maintained, offering peace of mind to employers.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in East Hazel Crest, IL
Our network of testing centers spans Nationwide, including East Hazel Crest, IL, offering easy and hassle-free access to drug testing services. The widespread locations ensure convenience, allowing individuals to swiftly engage with testing procedures without delay.
Simple, Confidential Process in East Hazel Crest, IL
The process of ordering and undergoing a hair follicle drug test in East Hazel Crest, IL, is straightforward and confidential. Privacy concerns are addressed, ensuring that individuals feel secure and comfortable throughout the testing experience. The simplicity of the procedure enhances the user experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in East Hazel Crest, IL
Our competitive pricing and quick result turnaround provide excellent value for companies of all sizes in East Hazel Crest, IL. The affordability of the testing ensures that businesses can access reliable results without financial strain, while the timely delivery of outcomes supports efficient operations.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in East Hazel Crest, IL
The precision of hair follicle drug tests ensures confidence in detecting substance use. Hair testing provides high accuracy, reducing the likelihood of erroneous results. In East Hazel Crest, IL, individuals can rely on the rapid delivery of results, aiding in swift decision-making processes and maintaining workplace standards.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in East Hazel Crest, IL
Implementing hair follicle testing in East Hazel Crest, IL, ensures adherence to workplace drug-free policies. This method mitigates legal risks and enhances overall workplace safety. Employers can achieve peace of mind knowing that hair testing aligns with compliance requirements and promotes a secure work environment.