Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extended history of alcohol and drugs by capturing biomarkers within the hair shaft. Upon collection near the scalp, hair can reveal a detection period of up to about three months for alcohol and drugs. Hair is easy to gather, relatively challenging to tamper with, and straightforward to transport.
A 1.5-inch hair specimen containing around 200 strands (resembling the size of a #2 pencil) from nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for analysis and verification. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, 150mg of the sample is advisable. We suggest measuring the sample with a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair is absent, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. References to head hair pertain solely to scalp hair, while body hair denotes all other types (beard, underarm, etc.).
Procedure Summary
The four key steps in a lab-based drug testing process include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the initial integration of a sample into a lab's system, which involves ensuring the sample's proper sealing and shipping, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening involves a preliminary assessment for drug presence. Though a cost-effective method for ruling out drug use in most cases, a positive screen must be confirmed to be legally admissible. Samples testing positive under Screening require additional confirmation.
If a specimen screens positive, further hair is taken from the initial sample and prepared for Extraction. In this phase, drug separation from hair is achieved at significantly lower concentrations compared to other techniques (e.g., urine or saliva), highlighting the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of positive screening results is achieved using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptively positive samples undergo pre-confirmation washing as needed. The entire lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair specification and accredited under ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: Although commonly termed as "hair follicle tests", the analysis is performed on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Hair follicle testing in Stonefort, IL, outperforms traditional urine tests by offering superior detection accuracy and reliability. One key advantage is its extended detection ability, identifying drug usage over several months. Unlike urine tests, which might miss recent abstinence, hair tests provide comprehensive drug history over 90 days, offering more insight into an individual's substance use patterns.
In Stonefort, IL, hair follicle tests have an extended detection window, revealing drug use for up to 90 days. This long period gives employers a better understanding of an applicant’s or employee’s historical substance use. The ability to review a longer timeline enables more informed decisions concerning employment and drug-free workplace policies, safeguarding organizations from potential risks.
Hair follicle testing in Stonefort, IL, significantly lowers the risk of sample tampering. Unlike other methods, hair samples are hard to adulterate, ensuring accurate and trustworthy results. As these tests require observed sample collection, they provide an additional layer of security against fraudulent activities, cementing their status as a reliable testing method for both individuals and organizations.
Accessibility and convenience are key at Accredited Drug Testing in Stonefort, IL. Our vast network of testing centers nationwide ensures easy and quick access to drug testing services. Whether in major cities or local areas like Stonefort, our locations guarantee efficient service delivery, making the testing process seamless and stress-free for all clients, wherever they are based.
In Stonefort, IL, the hair follicle testing process is straightforward and confidential, from ordering to taking tests and receiving results. We aim to provide a user-friendly experience while maintaining the highest standards of privacy. Clients can trust that their personal data is protected, and the testing journey is designed to be as hassle-free as possible, ensuring satisfaction and peace of mind.
Accredited Drug Testing offers competitive pricing and rapid result turnaround in Stonefort, IL. Our cost-effective solutions cater to businesses of all sizes, ensuring affordability without compromising on quality. Organizations can rely on our quick service for efficient drug testing needs while enjoying excellent value, ultimately aiding them in maintaining safe and compliant workplace environments.
In Stonefort, IL, hair follicle tests offer fast, precise, and dependable results. These tests are acclaimed for their high accuracy in revealing substance usage, ensuring timely and reliable outcomes. The accelerated processing of these tests means minimal wait times while maintaining stringent accuracy standards, providing individuals and organizations the peace of mind that comes with trusted results.
Achieving compliance and peace of mind in Stonefort, IL, is possible with hair follicle testing. This method helps ensure adherence to workplace drug-free policies, minimizing legal challenges while enhancing safety. Employers benefit from the assurance that their drug testing protocols are robust, reducing risks associated with non-compliance and promoting a healthy, safe work environment.
