Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Elgin, IL

What it is, How it works

Hair testing is increasingly recognized as an effective means of identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extended history of drug and alcohol use by capturing biomarkers within the strands of growing hair. When taken near the scalp, hair samples can reflect alcohol and drug use over an approximate 3-month period. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and straightforward to transport.

A 1.5-inch segment comprising roughly 200 strands of hair (comparable to a #2 pencil in size) close to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the preferred amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or tests with more than 10 panels, 150mg of the specimen is advisable. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale to measure the specimen's weight is recommended. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be collected. When we mention head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair includes any other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The four fundamental stages in processing a laboratory drug test result are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning involves the initial handling of a sample within a lab’s workflow. This includes confirming the sample's proper sealing and shipping, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finishing any extra data entry not supported by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening consists of an initial rapid assessment for substances of abuse. Although Screening is an economical method for ruling out drug use in most samples, any positive screens must be validated to stand in legal contexts. Samples that show presumptive positives during Screening are subject to further confirmation.

When a sample tests presumptively positive during the Screening phase, more hair is extracted from the initial specimen to prepare for Extraction. This step involves extracting drugs from hair at much lower concentrations than other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most challenging method to conduct.

Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is conducted via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples that are presumptive positives are cleansed prior to confirmation as necessary. The complete laboratory procedure from Accessioning through Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the compliance with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection window: Hair drug tests detect drug use extending up to 90 days, unlike urine tests which offer a shorter detection period.
• Hard to falsify: Cheating a hair drug test is quite difficult, leading to more reliable outcomes.
• Offers historical insights: It can reveal drug use patterns over time, not just recent activity.

Limitations:

• Does not catch recent use: It takes about 5-7 days for drugs to become noticeable in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug tests generally cost more than alternative testing methods.
• Result variability: Elements such as hair color and individual differences in hair growth can impact drug metabolite concentrations in hair.

Note: Frequently called "hair follicle tests", this test analyzes the hair strand itself rather than the follicle situated beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

When comparing hair follicle testing to traditional urine tests in Elgin, IL, hair tests offer superior benefits. Hair testing excels in detection accuracy, identifying substance use over a longer period. Employers find these tests more reliable, as they minimize false results. This enhanced reliability not only supports zero-tolerance policies but also strengthens overall safety in the workplace.

Extended Detection Window

In Elgin, IL, the extended detection window of hair follicle testing stands out. Hair tests can detect drug use up to 90 days in the past, providing employers with a broader view of an individual's substance use history. This in-depth screening allows for better-informed decisions regarding current or prospective employees, ensuring a safer work environment and more reliable workforce.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Hair follicle testing in Elgin, IL is renowned for its tamper-resistant nature. The testing process significantly reduces the chance of sample adulteration, ensuring reliable and credible results. This method instills trust among employers and legal entities, as the likelihood of manipulating results is nearly eliminated. The integrity of this testing procedure is unmatched, offering peace of mind.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

The availability of convenient nationwide testing centers in Elgin, IL offers unparalleled accessibility for hair follicle testing. This ensures that individuals and employers can quickly and easily access testing services. The wide network of locations provides a hassle-free experience for all users, enabling effortless and timely compliance with testing requirements.

Simple, Confidential Process

Hair follicle testing in Elgin, IL is supported by a simple and confidential process. Ordering, taking the test, and receiving results are straightforward, preserving privacy and ensuring user confidence. This streamlined procedure addresses any privacy concerns and makes the testing experience user-friendly, maintaining a high level of convenience and discretion throughout.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

In Elgin, IL, hair follicle testing is not only efficient but also cost-effective. Our competitive pricing structures combined with quick turnaround times offer significant value for businesses of any size. Companies benefit from the affordability and fast service, ensuring a cost-efficient way to maintain workplace safety and compliance without compromising quality.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Hair follicle tests in Elgin, IL ensure fast, accurate, and reliable results. This method is distinguished by its precision, delivering confidence in detecting substance use. Users will appreciate the high accuracy these tests offer, ensuring effective identification of drug use history. Their swift process and trustworthy outcomes make this testing method superior to alternatives, providing dependable insights.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Employers in Elgin, IL find reassurance through hair follicle testing, ensuring compliance with stringent drug-free workplace policies. This method reduces legal risks and promotes a safer workplace environment. By adopting hair testing, companies not only uphold high standards but also foster a culture of accountability and safety, aligning with corporate and regulatory objectives.

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