Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair examination is now regarded as an effective mechanism for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged record of alcohol and drug use by embedding biomarkers within the strands of the growing hair. When cut close to the scalp, it can reveal up to an estimated three-month span of alcohol and drug usage. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively immune to tampering, and is efficiently transported.
A 1.5-inch hair sample, approximately 200 strands or similar to the width of a #2 pencil, taken from near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the ideal quantity for both screening and validation. For EtG, add-ons, or tests beyond 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for measuring the sample weight. If scalp hair isn’t available, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be obtained. Head hair denotes exclusively scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses all other hair kinds (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result involves four chief steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning comprises the primary processing of a sample into a laboratory’s framework. This step checks that the sample was sealed and dispatched properly, tags it with a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizes any supplemental data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody mechanism.
Screening includes an initial rapid examination for drug abuse. While cost-effective for eliminating drug use in most cases, a positive screening demands confirmation for court admissibility. Samples that test presumptively positive in Screening require a follow-up confirmation.
Following a presumptively positive result in Screening, further hair is extracted from the initial sample and set for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are isolated at a minutely lower concentration from hair compared to other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluids), which makes hair drug testing the most challenging methodology.
Validation of any positive screening outcome is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation, if necessary. The laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests", the procedure analyzes the hair strand, not the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Surpasses Urine Testing in Hartland, IL
The rise in hair testing popularity owes to its superior detection capabilities over urine tests. Hair follicle testing offers an extended detection window and greater accuracy, ensuring reliable results. Whereas urine tests have limitations in the detection period, hair tests identify drug use with remarkable precision and are favored in Hartland, IL, for their robustness.
Extended Detection Window in Hartland, IL
With the ability to detect drug use over a period of up to 90 days, hair follicle testing provides employers in Hartland, IL, a comprehensive insight into an individual's history. This extended detection window helps in understanding patterns of substance use far beyond the capabilities of other testing methods, offering an enhanced view of an applicant or employee's behavior and ensuring informed decision-making.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Hartland, IL
Hair follicle testing dramatically reduces the risk of tampering and sample adulteration. This method provides reliable and unquestionable drug testing results due to the complexity in altering the hair sample. In Hartland, IL, this reliability means peace of mind for employers, ensuring that results reflect genuine drug use patterns without the flaws that might affect other testing methods.
Convenient Nationwide and Local Testing Facilities in Hartland, IL
Our testing centers offer convenience through nationwide presence and local accessibility in Hartland, IL. This ensures quick, straightforward access to drug testing services without the hassle, facilitating an effective testing process for businesses and individuals alike. Our wide network guarantees that high-quality testing is never out of reach.
Simplified, Confidential Testing Process in Hartland, IL
Hair follicle testing ensures a straightforward and confidential procedure, from ordering to receiving results. This process addresses privacy concerns and guarantees ease of use, ensuring that individuals and employers in Hartland, IL, can rely on a discrete and efficient method of obtaining test outcomes that respect personal and professional privacy.
Cost-Effective Pricing and Swift Results in Hartland, IL
Competitive pricing and fast turnaround times distinguish our hair follicle testing services in Hartland, IL. Our affordable pricing structures offer excellent value for organizations of all sizes, ensuring high-quality testing without straining budgets. Rapid results contribute to peace of mind, allowing businesses to act decisively on drug testing information.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Outcomes in Hartland, IL
Hair follicle drug tests stand out for their accuracy and prompt results. This method delivers reliable insights into recent and past substance use. Unlike traditional testing methods, hair follicle testing in Hartland, IL, ensures precise detection, leaving no room for error. Quick processing guarantees employers the timely information they need. This test provides unmatched precision and speed, a cornerstone of its effectiveness.
Compliance and Assurance for Employers in Hartland, IL
Emphasizing compliance with drug-free workplace policies, hair follicle testing supports legal adherence and enhances workplace safety in Hartland, IL. By adopting this testing method, employers reduce potential legal risks associated with drug use on the job, fostering a secure and compliant work environment that is beneficial for both employees and businesses.
