Accredited Drug Testing provides comprehensive services for hair follicle drug testing throughout Sheridan, Illinois. Specializing in hair drug and alcohol tests, we operate testing centers nationwide. Generally, 1.5 to 2 inches of hair from the crown or body are needed for testing. Hair samples can indicate presence of drugs, alcohol/ETG, or other specific substances.
The prevalence of hair follicle drug tests has grown recently, often replacing traditional urine tests. Employers, judiciary systems, and substance abuse experts favor hair tests for their zero-tolerance policies. These tests are valued for their extended detection period of up to 90 days, ensured by a monitored sample collection that resists tampering—though for recent drug use within 5 days, urine tests still lead in accuracy.
* You must register by phone or online to receive your donor pass/registration prior to proceeding to the testing center. You must bring a valid government issued ID along with the registration/barcode number which was sent to you by email.
When you're searching for hair drug testing near me or hair drug testing locations, we provide a simple and convenient process to find a drug and alcohol testing location near you that is certified to provide all of your drug and alcohol testing needs.
Hair testing is now understood as a potent means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extended history of substances by encapsulating biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. Collected near the scalp, hair affords roughly a 3-month detection period for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient for shipping.
A 1.5-inch portion of around 200 hair strands (roughly resembling a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg, which is the ideal sample size for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional assessments, and/or tests beyond 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale is recommended for weighing. If scalp hair is not present, an equivalent amount of body hair can be gathered. When referring to head hair, it pertains solely to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types, such as facial and axillary.
Process Overview
The drug test laboratory process comprises four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning includes incorporating the sample into the laboratory system, ensuring correct sealing and shipping, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and filling in any extra data required beyond what the electronic chain of custody system provides.
Screening is an initial quick check for substances. While cost-effective for eliminating drug usage in most samples, positive screens need confirmation for court admissibility. Samples presumptively positive in Screening demand further confirmation.
If presumed positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and prepped for Extraction. This step involves extracting drugs from hair at lower concentrations than in other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screening notably challenging.
Confirmation of any positive screen is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Before confirmation, all presumptive positive samples undergo washing as needed. The comprehensive laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, undergoes review under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair subcommittee and adheres to ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Even though sometimes called "hair follicle tests," the analysis is conducted on the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Trumps Urine Testing in Sheridan, IL
In contrasting hair tests with urine tests, hair analysis offers superior accuracy and dependability. While urine tests primarily detect recent drug use, hair follicle testing unveils drug use patterns extending back 90 days, providing deeper insights for employers and authorities.
Extended Detection Window in Sheridan, IL
The capacity to trace drug use over a prolonged period distinguishes hair testing. With a 90-day detection window, it offers a comprehensive view of an individual's substance use history, aiding employers in making informed decisions and ensuring ongoing compliance with drug-free workplace policies.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Sheridan, IL
Hair follicle tests are notably resistant to tampering, minimizing sample adulteration risks and guaranteeing authentic results. This method surpasses traditional testing by making it almost impossible to alter the test outcome, thereby reinforcing trust in the testing process.
Convenient Testing Locations Across Sheridan, IL
Our nationwide presence in testing facilities ensures effortless access to testing services. Swift and hassle-free, our centers provide convenience, allowing quick appointments and efficient service completion locally and nationwide.
Simple, Confidential Process in Sheridan, IL
Our testing procedure is straightforward and private, ensuring ease and confidentiality for participants. From ordering tests to receiving results, every step respects privacy concerns, affording users a stress-free experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Sheridan, IL
Offering competitive pricing and rapid results, our services deliver incredible value to businesses, regardless of size. These benefits enhance the attractiveness of hair testing as the optimal choice for comprehensive substance testing.
Fast and Accurate Results in Sheridan, IL
Hair follicle testing delivers rapid, accurate, and reliable data, ensuring precise detection of substance use. These tests are preferred for their exceptional accuracy, providing results that instill confidence in the assessment of drug use history and current habits.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Sheridan, IL
Employers gain assurance and compliance with drug-free workplace standards through hair follicle testing. By reducing legal liabilities and enhancing workplace safety, this method offers peace of mind, aligning safety practices with organizational values.