Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Strands of hair offer an extended record of alcohol and drug intake by containing biomarkers within the hair fiber strands. When sourced near the scalp, hair can indicate a roughly 3-month timeframe for alcohol and drug presence. The collection of hair is straightforward, resistant to tampering, and convenient to transport.
An ideal sample comprises a 1.5-inch section of approximately 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil) from the scalp, providing 100mg of hair for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or panels beyond ten, a 150mg sample is advisable. Consider measuring the sample with a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair cannot be obtained, a corresponding amount of body hair may be utilized. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses other types such as facial or axillary hair.
Process Overview
The laboratory analysis of a drug test result involves four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the step where a sample is initially processed into a laboratory’s system. This step involves ensuring that the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any required data entry that is not automatically captured by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening consists of a preliminary evaluation for drug presence. While Screening is a budget-friendly method of excluding drug use in numerous samples, a positive result must be validated for legal acceptability. Samples shown to have drugs upon Screening need further confirmation.
When a sample indicates a positive result during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepared for Extraction. Drugs are extracted at a lower concentration from hair in this phase, making hair drug assessment a challenge compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid).
Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) is used to finalize testing, ensuring precise and accurate results for any positive screenings. Before confirmation, all presumptive positive samples receive a washing as needed. The complete laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes examination by both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being commonly called "hair follicle tests," the test examines the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Brookston, IN
In contrast to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing offers superior accuracy and reliability. This advanced method excels in detecting prolonged substance use, making it a valuable tool for employers who prioritize long-term drug use history over short-lived detection windows, thus ensuring a safer and more compliant workplace.
Extended Detection Window in Brookston, IN
One of the standout features of hair follicle testing is its ability to uncover drug use dating back up to 90 days. This extensive detection period provides employers with a holistic view of an individual's substance use, offering insights that are unattainable with standard tests, and aiding in the evaluation of long-term behavior patterns.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Brookston, IN
Hair follicle tests are specifically designed to minimize the risk of tampering. Compared to other methods, they offer a robust defense against sample adulteration, providing reliable results that stand up to scrutiny. This resistance to manipulation is key for maintaining integrity in testing procedures.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Brookston, IN
We offer the advantage of nationwide accessibility with numerous testing centers, including local options in Brookston. This network ensures that testing remains an uncomplicated and accessible process for everyone, removing the hassle associated with the logistics of drug testing.
Simple, Confidential Process in Brookston, IN
Ordering, administering, and retrieving hair follicle drug test results is straightforward and secure. This process addresses privacy concerns effectively, providing users peace of mind and emphasizing user-friendliness, making it a stress-free choice for both individuals and organizations alike.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Brookston, IN
Our pricing is competitive, making hair follicle testing an economically viable option for companies of every size. Coupled with rapid turnaround times, our services deliver excellent value and assure quick results, ensuring businesses operate efficiently and cost-effectively without sacrificing quality.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Brookston, IN
Hair follicle drug tests provide unmatched precision in substance detection. Their swiftness and reliability make them a preferred choice among employers concerned with maintaining a drug-free environment. The high accuracy means results that can be trusted, reducing the chances of inaccurate readings that could impact staffing decisions.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Brookston, IN
Utilizing hair follicle testing helps ensure adherence to workplace drug-free policies. It minimizes legal exposure and enhances overall safety in the workplace environment. Employers can rest assured with hair tests, knowing they meet compliance requirements while protecting their workforce and reputation.
