Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective method for detecting substance use involving drugs and alcohol. Hair offers a long-term record of alcohol and drug intake by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair strand. When cut close to the scalp, hair can offer up to an approximately 3-month detection timeframe for alcohol and drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, comparatively challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A segment of 1.5 inches consisting of around 200 strands of hair (approximately the width of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp equates to 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample for screening and validation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, a specimen of 150mg is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen. If scalp hair cannot be obtained, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be used. When mentioning head hair, we are specifically speaking of scalp hair. Body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory steps in processing drug test outcomes include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the sample’s initial processing into the lab’s system. This comprises verifying proper sealing and shipment of the sample, assigning it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data entry lacking from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as an initial fast assessment for drugs of abuse. While Screening is cost-efficient for excluding drug use in most samples, a positive screen requires confirmation to be legally viable. Samples with presumptive positives during Screening necessitate subsequent confirmation.
If a sample is presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen and prepped for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are drawn from hair at much lower concentrations than in other methodologies (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting why hair drug screening is the most challenging methodology to undertake.
Positive screening outcomes are confirmed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing prior to confirmation as necessary. The laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standard and receives accreditation under ISO/IEC 17025 norms.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While colloquially called "hair follicle tests", the actual analysis focuses on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Colfax, IN
When compared to traditional urine testing methods, hair follicle testing in Colfax stands out for its superior detection capabilities. The primary benefits include a longer detection window and increased accuracy, making them a more reliable choice for substance detection. As technology advances, hair testing continues to be a preferred method for comprehensive substance use analysis.
Extended Detection Window in Colfax, IN
Hair follicle testing shines in its ability to detect drug use over a significantly longer timeframe, typically up to 90 days. This extended detection window provides employers in Colfax a thorough understanding of an individual's substance history, allowing for informed decision-making regarding employment suitability and workplace safety efforts.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Colfax, IN
One of the standout features of hair follicle testing in Colfax is its resilience against tampering. The method significantly reduces the chances of sample adulteration, delivering reliable and unquestionable results. In situations demanding certainty and integrity of outcomes, this testing method is unrivaled in ensuring authenticity and accuracy.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Colfax, IN
The convenience of Accredited Drug Testing's nationwide centers ensures that individuals in Colfax have accessible options for drug testing. Quick, easy, and hassle-free access to testing services facilitate seamless processes, whether needing testing locally or across the nation. Our extended network supports timely and effective service availability.
Simple, Confidential Process in Colfax, IN
Our process for hair follicle testing in Colfax is designed to be simple and confidential, addressing privacy concerns. From ordering a test to receiving results, our streamlined approach ensures ease of use, safeguarding privacy all throughout. Individuals and employers alike appreciate the straightforward, discretely managed testing procedure.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Colfax, IN
Accredited Drug Testing is committed to offering competitive pricing structures with fast turnaround times in Colfax. These services provide excellent value, ensuring companies of all sizes can access quality drug testing solutions efficiently and affordably, hence reinforcing the practicality and effectiveness of our offerings.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Colfax, IN
Hair follicle drug tests in Colfax offer unmatched precision and speed in identifying substance use. Their high levels of accuracy ensure that individuals who have used drugs are accurately detected, providing a dependable approach for various stakeholders. This swift method ensures results are not only fast but reliable, granting peace of mind for both employers and individuals.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Colfax, IN
Using hair follicle testing enables employers in Colfax to maintain compliance with drug-free workplace policies and regulations. This approach lowers legal risks and promotes a safer working environment. Employers gain peace of mind knowing they’re upholding standards that protect their business interests and employee well-being.
