Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Fairfield, IL

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis is now recognized as a significant means for identifying substance intake. Hair offers a retrospective timeline by embedding chemical markers within its structure as it grows. Collected near the scalp, it can reveal approximately a three-month trace of alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.

A typical 1.5-inch hair sample, comprising about 200 strands akin to a #2 pencil, yields 100mg of hair, which is considered optimal for evaluations and confirmation. For EtG testing, add-ons, and/or screens exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is preferred. It's advised to measure the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. In cases where head hair is lacking, a like quantity of body hair may be used. Head hair denotes only scalp hair, whereas body hair includes other types (facial, underarm, etc.).

Process Overview

The essential phases in lab processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning includes the sample's initial entry into the lab’s system. This step ensures the sample was properly sealed and transported, allocates a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any pending data entry not covered by an e-chain of custody.

Screening offers a preliminary scan for substance abuse. Though Screening is an economical means to dismiss drug usage in the majority of samples, a positive outcome necessitates further verification for courtroom validity. All presumptive positives from Screening must undergo further confirmation.

A presumptive positive from the Screening phase leads to more hair being extracted from the original sample for Extraction. Here, drugs are retrieved from hair in lower amounts compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluids), making hair drug screening one of the trickiest methods to execute.

Confirmation of a positive screen uses GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Every presumptive positive sample is cleansed before confirmation if required. The comprehensive lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is overseen under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair qualification and accredited by ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests trace drug consumption for up to 90 days, as opposed to urine tests with limited detection periods.
• Challenging to deceive: Manipulating a hair drug test is extremely difficult, enhancing the reliability of results.
• Delivers historical records: It offers a view of drug use patterns over time, beyond just recent intake.

Limitations:

• Unable to identify recent use: Drugs become traceable in hair after approximately 5-7 days.
• Expense: Generally, hair drug tests cost more than other testing methods.
• Result disparities: Elements like hair color and individual hair growth can influence drug metabolite levels in hair.

Note: Although often termed "hair follicle tests", the examination evaluates the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Hair Testing Outshines Urine Testing in Fairfield, IL

• Compared to urine tests, hair testing provides superior detection accuracy and reliability.
• The longer detection window offers a more comprehensive view of substance use.
• These benefits make hair testing a critical choice for employers.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Fairfield, IL

• Hair follicle testing detects drugs over a 90-day period, allowing employers to see a detailed history.
• This extended window offers an insight into long-term substance use habits.
• Employers can make informed decisions based on comprehensive data.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Fairfield, IL

• Hair follicle tests greatly reduce the potential for sample tampering.
• This ensures that the results are reliable and unquestionable.
• The method provides peace of mind when accuracy is essential.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Testing Locations Nationwide and in Fairfield, IL

• Our nationwide network offers easy access to testing services.
• Local Fairfield, IL locations make testing quick and hassle-free.
• This convenience supports efficient and timely drug testing processes.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Testing Process in Fairfield, IL

• Ordering, taking, and receiving results are straightforward and confidential.
• Privacy concerns are addressed throughout the process.
• Users appreciate the ease of use in obtaining critical testing information.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Fairfield, IL

• Competitive pricing structures provide excellent value.
• Quick turnaround times ensure results are available when needed.
• These factors provide peace of mind for companies of all sizes.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Precise Results in Fairfield, IL

• Hair follicle drug tests offer both precision and speed.
• These tests have high accuracy in detecting substance use, leaving little room for error.
• As a result, they provide a valuable tool for employers seeking reliable testing solutions.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Fairfield, IL

• Utilizing hair follicle testing helps maintain compliance with drug-free workplace policies.
• It reduces the legal risks associated with substance abuse issues.
• Enhancing workplace safety becomes achievable with this reliable testing method.

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