Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly recognized as a potent method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a retrospective record of alcohol and other substances by embedding biomarkers within the strands of developing hair. When gathered near the scalp, it can reveal up to about a 3-month detection period for alcohol and drugs. Hair is straightforward to collect, moderately challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment comprising roughly 200 hair strands (approximately the size of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional analyses, and/or tests beyond 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is suggested. Using a jeweler’s scale is advised for weighing the sample. Should scalp hair be scarce, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be used. When mentioning head hair, we mean scalp hair exclusively. Body hair encompasses all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory handling of a drug test result involves four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning consists of initially integrating a sample into a lab's processes. This step involves ensuring the sample was sealed and shipped correctly, assigning it a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and finalizing any supplementary data entry absent from the electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides an initial rapid assessment for substances of abuse. Despite being an economical method to exclude drug consumption in most specimens, a positive screening outcome requires confirmation to be valid in a judicial setting. Samples that appear positive during Screening necessitate additional confirmation.
If a sample shows presumptive positivity during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at a significantly lower concentration than through other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug analysis is the most challenging method to execute.
Confirmation for any positive screening result is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. All samples initially deemed positive are cleaned before confirmation as required. The comprehensive laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly named "hair follicle tests", the analysis itself examines the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Nelson, IL
Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing boasts superior detection accuracy and reliability. Its ability to detect drug use over a prolonged span provides a significant advantage.
Employers gain a more comprehensive insight into substance use history, ensuring a safer and drug-free work environment. This method's accuracy guarantees the trustworthiness of the results.
Extended Detection Window in Nelson, IL
Hair follicle testing is renowned for its extensive detection window, capturing drug use history for up to 90 days. This longer period grants employers a broad overview of an individual’s substance use background.
This comprehensive detection ability aids businesses in making informed decisions, allowing them to evaluate potential or current employees with greater depth and understanding.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Nelson, IL
The hair follicle testing method significantly minimizes the chance of sample tampering, offering reliable and indisputable results. The observed collection process prevents any manipulation.
By reducing the opportunity for adulteration, employers can trust the test results are genuine, helping maintain a safe and compliant workplace free from substance misuse.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Nelson, IL
With numerous testing centers across the nation, gaining access to testing services is both convenient and hassle-free. In Nelson, IL, centers offer easy access for individuals and employers alike.
This widespread network minimizes wait times and ensures prompt service, bolstering the drug testing process's efficiency and effectiveness.
Simple, Confidential Process in Nelson, IL
The hair follicle testing process is straightforward and ensures confidentiality from ordering to result reception. Privacy concerns are addressed, providing peace of mind to all involved.
Maintaining discretion while delivering accurate outcomes ensures that individuals' data is securely handled, enhancing confidence in the testing process.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Nelson, IL
Competitive pricing structures combined with quick result turnaround ensures excellent value for companies of all sizes. This affordability does not compromise on quality, maintaining high standards.
Faster results lead to swift decision-making, helping organizations respond quickly to testing needs without financial strain.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Nelson, IL
Hair follicle drug tests provide precise and efficient results, essential for assessing substance use. Their accuracy in identifying drugs over an extended period assures employers of dependable outcomes.
The rapid turnaround time for hair testing results further ensures timely decision-making for companies. This speed and accuracy deliver exceptional reliability unmatched by other testing methods.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Nelson, IL
Utilizing hair follicle testing ensures compliance with workplace policies on substance use, reducing legal liabilities. Employers enjoy enhanced safety and peace of mind knowing their employees adhere to drug-free standards.
Adopting these testing methods aligns with zero-tolerance policies, safeguarding the organization and its workforce effectively.
