Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Chesterton, IN

What it is, How it works

Hair testing is regarded as a robust method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged history of alcohol and illicit substances by retaining biomarkers within the fibers of each maturing hair shaft. When obtained from the scalp area, hair offers nearly a 3-month detection timeline for substances like alcohol and drugs. The collection process is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and convenient for transport.

A 1.5-inch segment consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (about equivalent to a #2 pencil's thickness) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the preferred sample size for both screening and verification. For EtG, additional testing, and/or those above 10 panels, a 150mg sample is suggested. Using a jeweler's scale to weigh the sample is advisable. Should scalp hair be unavailable, a similar quantity of body hair can be used. The term head hair exclusively refers to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other hair types (face, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The laboratory analysis of drug test samples includes the following four stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

During Accessioning, a sample is first entered into the lab's system. This process confirms the proper sealing and shipment of the sample, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any additional data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening provides an initial cursory investigation for drugs of abuse. Although it's a cost-effective method for excluding drug use in most cases, positive screenings require confirmation for legal acceptance. Thus, any samples indicated as positive in this phase need subsequent verification.

In instances where a sample returns a presumptive positive result during Screening, additional hair is taken from the original sample for the Extraction phase. Here, drugs are extracted from the hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or saliva tests), adding to the complexity of hair drug testing.

Confirmation for a positive screening outcome employs techniques such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptively positive specimens undergo washing before confirmation if needed. The full laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is scrutinized under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests reveal drug use up to 90 days, unlike urine tests that have a shorter timeframe.
• Hard to deceive: Manipulating results in a hair drug test is exceedingly difficult, ensuring higher accuracy.
• Offers historical patterns: The test can map drug use trends over time, unlike tests that only reveal recent usage.

Limitations:

• Incapable of recent use detection: Detection in hair occurs roughly after 5-7 days post-drug usage.
• Expense: Comparatively costly versus other drug testing methods.
• Result variability: Factors like hair color and individual hair growth differences may alter drug metabolite concentrations.

Note: Although frequently called "hair follicle tests", the examination targets the hair strand, not the follicle under the skin.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Hair follicle testing in Chesterton, IN, offers superior advantages over traditional urine tests. Enhanced detection accuracy and increased reliability are among the key benefits. Unlike urine tests, hair testing can reveal a more comprehensive history of substance use, making it an invaluable tool for employers seeking a secure and consistent testing method.

Extended Detection Window

In Chesterton, IN, hair follicle testing is renowned for its extended detection window of up to 90 days. This capability allows employers to obtain a thorough understanding of an individual's substance use history. Rather than only identifying recent usage, hair testing provides a comprehensive insight into an employee's long-term habits.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Hair follicle tests significantly minimize the risk of sample adulteration and tampering. In Chesterton, IN, this method guarantees reliable and unquestionable results, giving employers the confidence that the outcomes are authentic and free from manipulation, unlike some other testing procedures.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

With our network of testing centers, Accredited Drug Testing provides nationwide and local convenience in Chesterton, IN. Our facilities offer quick, easy, and hassle-free access to testing services, ensuring you won't have to go far to utilize our expertise.

Simple, Confidential Process

In Chesterton, IN, our hair follicle testing process is simple and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, each step is straightforward, prioritizing your privacy and convenience. This smooth procedure reassures participants by maintaining discretion and ease of use.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

By offering competitive pricing and swift turnaround times, our hair follicle testing in Chesterton, IN, ensures excellent value for businesses of all sizes. Our affordable rates, combined with fast processing, provide companies the peace of mind that they are receiving efficient and cost-effective services.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

In Chesterton, IN, hair follicle drug tests are known for their precision and rapid results. These tests are geared to detect substance use with a high degree of accuracy, ensuring that you get reliable findings quickly. This makes them an excellent choice for those who need fast and trustworthy results.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Employers in Chesterton, IN, benefit from hair follicle testing's ability to ensure compliance with drug-free workplace policies. By using this method, businesses not only reduce legal risks but also enhance workplace safety, providing peace of mind and fostering a more secure environment.

Drug Testing Near Chesterton, IN

Porter, IN

Valparaiso, IN

Lake Station, IN

Salt Creek Commons, IN

Town of Pines, IN

Beverly Shores, IN

Ogden Dunes, IN

South Haven, IN

Burns Harbor, IN

Crocker, IN

Dune Acres, IN