Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Utilizing hair testing has become recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. The hair captures a long-term record of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the hair fiber as it grows. A sample taken near the scalp can reveal a detection period of up to about three months for drugs and alcohol. The process of collecting hair is straightforward, resisting tampering, and is convenient to transport.
To acquire a suitable sample for screening and verification, a 1.5-inch section of roughly 200 strands of hair taken nearest the scalp is needed, equating to 100mg of hair, which is ideal. For tests such as EtG, additional checks, and/or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to measure the hair accurately. If head hair is not present, the same amount of body hair can be collected. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other types such as facial, axillary, etc.
Process Overview
There are four primary stages in processing a drug test result in the lab: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the first phase where a sample is organized into the lab’s system. This step ensures the sample was sealed and shipped correctly, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any missed data entry not managed by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary fast evaluation for drugs. While Screening is an economic way to dismiss drug presence in most samples, any samples that are positive in the screening phase require validation to be court admissible. Any samples that are likely positive in Screening need a secondary confirmation.
If a sample shows potential positivity during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for Extraction. This stage involves extracting drugs from hair at much lower concentrations than in other methods like urine or saliva, making hair drug tests the most challenging type to conduct.
Confirmation for any positive Screening result is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples deemed positive are thoroughly cleaned before confirmation, if required. The entire lab procedure, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is governed by both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though commonly known as "hair follicle tests", this testing evaluates the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Loves Park, IL
When comparing hair follicle testing with urine tests, the former stands out for superior detection accuracy and reliability. Hair tests offer a wider window of detection, ensuring any substance use is effectively identified.
Employers favor hair testing for its accuracy over the more conventional urine tests. This modern method significantly reduces the chances of a false-negative result, offering peace of mind for all parties involved.
Extended Detection Window in Loves Park, IL
Hair follicle testing extends the detection window for drug use, covering a 90-day period. This provides employers with a holistic view of an employee or candidate's substance usage, offering a clear and comprehensive history.
Covering a substantial three-month duration, these tests are crucial for evaluating longer-term substance behaviors, which is pivotal for sensitive and high-stakes positions within any organization.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Loves Park, IL
Hair follicle tests drastically mitigate tampering risks. The method not only provides reliable results but is also challenging to manipulate, ensuring authenticity in substance use results.
This testing approach offers an almost foolproof method of sample collection, providing security and confidence in the outcomes. Adulteration of test samples is significantly discouraged through this rigorous testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Loves Park, IL
Our extensive network of testing centers nationwide facilitates easy access to testing services, making the process smooth and effortless.
Offering national reach and local availability ensures that drug testing is hassle-free, providing clients with swift and straightforward avenues for securing necessary testing services promptly.
Simple, Confidential Process in Loves Park, IL
The testing process is straightforward and maintains confidentiality. From ordering to receiving results, users are assured of privacy throughout the entire process.
Our streamlined approach to drug testing addresses privacy concerns head-on, offering individuals and companies a discreet and uncomplicated experience every step of the way.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Loves Park, IL
We offer competitive pricing structures accompanied by rapid turnaround times, ensuring valuable and efficient service for businesses of all sizes.
Our affordable solutions and swift processing provide cost-effective and timely support, enhancing overall value and satisfaction among our clientele.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Loves Park, IL
Hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their speed and precision. These tests offer quick and reliable detection of substance use with high accuracy, making them an invaluable tool for monitoring drug use in various settings.
The precision of hair tests ensures credible outcomes, reinforcing their reliability for individuals and organizations alike. This quick method of detection guarantees efficient and trustworthy results every time.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Loves Park, IL
Adopting hair follicle testing aligns with workplace drug-free policies, minimizing legal risks while enhancing workplace safety. Employers gain assurance and peace of mind implementing such comprehensive testing methods.
Ensuring adherence to necessary policies, this testing mode not only reduces risk but also strengthens the framework of a secure and compliant workplace environment.
