Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective mechanism for identifying substance and alcohol consumption. Hair holds a prolonged history of substances by embedding biomarkers within the growing strands. When sampled near the scalp, hair can reveal substance use with a detection duration of nearly 3 months. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and convenient for transportation.
A segment measuring 1.5 inches of roughly 200 hair strands (resembling the size of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp provides 100mg, the optimal amount for analysis and validation. For EtG, additional analysis, and/or assessments over 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advised. It's advisable to measure the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn't accessible, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be procured. Mention of head hair specifically denotes scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair categories (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Summary
The key phases in lab processing of a drug test include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial integration of a sample into a laboratory's database. This process verifies proper sealing and shipment, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes additional documentation not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening offers a preliminary assessment for illicit substances. Despite being an economical method to exclude drug usage in most specimens, a positive screening must be validated for legal acceptability. Any screenings presumed positive necessitate further confirmation.
In cases of presumptive positives during Screening, more hair is retrieved from the original specimen and readied for Extraction. Here, substances are extracted from the hair at considerably lower concentrations than alternative methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair analysis one of the most intricate procedures.
Positive screenings undergo Confirmation via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positives are cleansed before confirmation as required. From Accessioning to Confirmation, the full lab procedure is audited under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Benefits of hair analysis:
Drawbacks:
Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests", this analysis actually evaluates the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Westfield, IL
Hair testing trumps urine testing in detecting substance use. While urine tests can only detect recent use, hair tests give an extended overview of an individual's drug history, revealing usage up to 90 days back. This broader timeframe allows employers to make informed decisions on hiring and workplace safety standards through superior detection accuracy and reliability.
Extended Detection Window in Westfield, IL
Hair follicle testing offers the advantage of an extended detection period, identifying drug use extending up to 90 days. This lengthy detection timeline provides employers a detailed view of a person's substance history, allowing for a more comprehensive assessment of both current and prospective employees in the workplace.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Westfield, IL
One of the standout benefits of hair follicle tests is their resistance to tampering. Unlike other testing methods, these tests significantly diminish the risk of sample adulteration. As a result, they offer results that are not only reliable but also beyond question, ensuring the integrity of the drug testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Westfield, IL
Accredited Drug Testing ensures convenience with ample nationwide testing centers, streamlining the testing process. Our availability in local areas like Westfield simplifies access, allowing for quick, hassle-free services that cater to both individual and corporate needs efficiently and stress-free.
Simple, Confidential Process in Westfield, IL
The hair testing procedure is designed to prioritize simplicity and confidentiality. The entire process—from ordering to sample collection and receiving results—ensures customer privacy and ease of use. This user-friendly approach addresses privacy concerns and makes participation straightforward for all involved.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Westfield, IL
We take pride in offering competitive pricing structures coupled with swift turnaround times. This combination ensures companies of all sizes receive excellent value. Our cost-effective solutions and quick results provide assurance and peace of mind, reinforcing our commitment to meeting customer needs efficiently.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Westfield, IL
Experience the precision of hair follicle drug tests, known for their ability to provide fast and reliable results. Such tests excel due to their high accuracy levels, which are unmatched in detecting substance use. Their rapid turnaround time sets them apart, ensuring that both employees and employers receive timely and dependable information.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Westfield, IL
Employers will find that hair follicle testing aligns with their drug-free workplace policies, aiding in compliance efforts. The use of these tests serves to mitigate legal risks and bolster workplace safety, ultimately offering managers peace of mind and a secure working environment.
