Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now regarded as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. It offers a prolonged timeline for tracking alcohol and other substances by embedding biomarkers in the strands of growing hair. When hair is taken near the scalp, it can reveal drug and alcohol use over an approximate three-month span. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient for transport.
Sampling a 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil's diameter) closest to the scalp yields approximately 100mg of hair, which is the preferred sample size for screening and confirmation. For tests like EtG add-ons or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is advised. Using a jeweler's scale to weigh the specimen is recommended. If scalp hair is not available, an equivalent amount of body hair can be gathered. When mentioning head hair, it specifically refers to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory analysis of a drug test result involves four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
In the Accessioning stage, the sample undergoes initial processing into the lab's system. This step ensures the sample was sealed and transported correctly, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any extra data entry absent from the electronic chain of custody system.
Screening performs a preliminary check for drugs of abuse. Although cost-efficient for excluding drug use in many samples, a positive result needs confirmation for legal admissibility. Samples that test positive initially do require further validation.
Samples testing positive in the Screening phase undergo additional preparation for Extraction, where more hair is extracted from the original sample. This phase isolates drugs at lower concentrations compared to other techniques (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most intricate methodology.
Positive screenings are confirmed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Before confirmation, all samples presumed positive are washed as necessary. The comprehensive laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is examined under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and adheres to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly termed as "hair follicle tests," the test evaluates the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Outshines Urine Testing in Viola, IL: When comparing hair follicle tests to traditional urine tests, the former emerges superior due to enhanced detection accuracy and reliability. Unlike urine tests, hair tests can detect substance use over a much longer period, making them an attractive option for employers committed to maintaining drug-free environments effectively.
The hair follicle testing method in Viola, IL offers an extended detection window, capturing drug use history for up to 90 days. This long-term insight is valuable for employers seeking a comprehensive understanding of an individual’s substance habits, allowing them to make informed decisions regarding their workforce's past substance use, ensuring safer and more responsible hiring practices.
With the hair follicle testing method employed in Viola, IL, the risk of sample adulteration is significantly minimized. This tamper-resistant approach ensures that the results are reliable and unquestionable, standing strong against attempts to alter or cheat the testing process. This gives peace of mind to employers regarding the authenticity of the results provided.
Our widespread network defines convenience in Viola, IL, with testing centers positioned nationwide. Enjoy stress-free access to testing services any time. This network ensures that regardless of location, you are ensured a quick and easy testing experience, supported by our local presence to meet your needs promptly and effectively.
The process in Viola, IL, is designed with simplicity and confidentiality in mind. Ease in ordering, sampling, and receiving results addresses privacy and usability concerns efficiently. Individuals can rest assured that their testing journey will be straightforward and private, reinforcing confidence in the testing experience.
For businesses in Viola, IL, hair follicle testing offers competitive pricing and fast turnaround times. These advantages deliver excellent value, ensuring that regardless of company size, drug testing remains affordable and highly effective. This means organizations can maintain peace of mind without financial strain or delayed results.
In Viola, IL, hair follicle drug testing stands out due to its impressive precision and speed. Offering unparalleled detection accuracy, these tests quickly reveal substance use, making them a top choice for employers seeking reliable results. The testing process is designed to provide fast and clear outcomes, leaving little room for doubt, ensuring that Viola, IL receives the best in drug testing technology.
In Viola, IL, employers find confidence in hair follicle testing's ability to ensure compliance with workplace drug-free policies. Utilizing this method reduces legal risks and enhances safety within the workplace. By choosing hair testing, employers demonstrate their commitment to a zero-tolerance policy, contributing positively to peace of mind and organizational integrity.
